Breast Implant Removal (Explant) Surgery
in Austin, TX

Table of Contents

Aspira Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Austin offers breast implant removal surgery to help women return to a more natural look or address health concerns related to their implants. Our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Erella, reviews each patient’s goals, health history, and implant details to develop the best treatment plan for removal and replacement if desired. At Aspira Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, we strive to help every woman feel comfortable and confident in her body.

What is a Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal (explant) is the surgical procedure to take out implants that were previously placed inside the breasts. According to the FDA, up to 30% of breast augmentation patients have their implants removed within 10 years. After undergoing the procedure, many women improve their level of comfort and satisfaction with body image. They also experience relief from implant-related health issues that previously impacted their quality of life

The reasons why patients want to remove breast implants are varied, but the most common include:

Our Breast Implant
Removal Results

Preparation for Removing Breast Implants

Consultation is the first step in preparing for breast surgery. Dr. Erella reviews  the patient’s health history and current implants to determine the best surgical  plan and technique. He also discusses the details of the operation – where and  how the incision will be made, whether implants will be replaced or not, what type of anesthesia will be used, if a breast lift or fat transfer will be necessary, and what the recovery process will look like.

Other key aspects of pre-surgical preparation include:

getting medical clearance from the patient's general physician;
discontinuing certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding risks;
arranging a ride home from the hospital or surgery center;
taking care of household duties and responsibilities that may  be limited during the recovery period after surgery.

Making the necessary preparations helps to set clear expectations and can lead to better recovery outcomes.

Anesthesia

The breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia. This means that the patient is fully asleep and unconscious during the procedure. The anesthesiologist gives intravenous medication to induce this state before the operation begins.

Incisions

Dr. Erella makes an incision on the breast fold to access the breast implants. The size and placement of the incision depend on the type of implant, its position, and the degree of capsule thickening. The goal is to make the least invasive opening that allows the surgeon to safely remove the implant while minimizing visible scarring.

Removing Implants

Dr. Erella carefully breaks down and removes any scar tissue surrounding the implants. This capsule may be thick and tightly formed. The surgeon then takes out the implants and irrigates (cleans) the breast pockets to clear out any debris. Drains may be placed to remove fluid buildup and reduce swelling after surgery. The implants are examined to check their integrity and identify any ruptures.

Capsulectomy (Optional)

During the breast implant removal, Dr. Erella may also perform a capsulectomy. This involves taking out a part or all of the scar tissue capsule that forms around the breast implant. A capsulectomy is usually done to treat capsular contracture or extract ruptured silicone gel.

Breast Lift/Augmentation

In some cases, patients may choose to replace the removed breast implants or undergo a breast lift. These procedures can help to restore breast volume and position after implant removal. During a breast lift, excess skin is eliminated, and breast tissue is reshaped to make the appearance more youthful. For augmentation, new saline or silicone implants may be inserted after the old ones are removed. Adding new augments or performing a lift often improves breast symmetry and proportion after explant surgery.

Closing Incisions

Dr. Erella closes the incisions with layered sutures, which help to support the surrounding tissue and minimize tension on the wound. Special surgical tape, skin adhesive, or bandages are applied to protect the incisions as they start healing. For additional support, the breasts may be wrapped in gauze dressings or a surgical bra.

Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Add-On Procedures

Breast Lift

For most women, adding a breast lift (mastopexy) at the time of their implant removal helps to reshape breasts and tighten the skin. The lift can create a more beautiful contour and profile after the augments have been taken out. While it requires a longer surgery and recovery, choosing mastopexy as an additional procedure can provide better aesthetic outcomes. The lift makes the breasts look perky and youthful.

Breast Augmentation

In most cases, breasts become empty and change shape after implant removal. Therefore, many women want Dr. Erella to insert new implants or utilize fat grafting to enhance breast fullness. Our patients can avoid additional surgery later on by doing both removal and augmentation in one procedure, which is very convenient. They may change breast implant size to fit their new aesthetic goals and needs.

Breast Implant
Removal Recovery

The recovery from breast implant removal surgery is usually not too difficult. Patients experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness  after the procedure. It is common to have drainage tubes in the breasts  for a few days to allow fluids to go away. The incision sites will take  some time to heal completely.

Most people need about 7-14 days off work to recover. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Patients may need  to wear a supportive bra as the breasts adjust to their new shape and size after implant removal.

It is normal to experience some changes in breast contours and numbness in nipples during the first few months. Complete healing can take half  of a year. Following all post-operative care instructions from Dr. Erella  may help to speed up recovery and maximize comfort.

Am I a Candidate for a Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal, like any other surgical procedure, requires the patient to:

Be in Good Health

Robust health is important when considering this operation. Patients should strive to be as physically fit as possible by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing any existing conditions prior to the procedure. These practices help the body recover more quickly and lower surgical risks.

Be Close to Their Ideal Weight

It is recommended that candidates be close to their ideal weight before the operation. Significant changes  in mass can impact the results of breast removal surgery. Maintaining a stable weight also supports good health, which is vital for proper healing.

Stop Using Tobacco Well in Advance  of the Procedure

Patients are strongly advised to stop using any tobacco products at least 4 weeks before surgery and avoid them during recovery. Nicotine impedes blood flow and can interfere with the healing of incisions and tissues. Quitting well in advance lowers surgical complications.

Have Realistic Expectations

It is very important to have realistic expectations about the procedure and anticipated results. Understanding all aspects of breast removal surgery and recovery helps patients  be prepared and satisfied with the outcomes. Each person should discuss their expectations thoroughly with Dr. Erella.

Psychological Readiness

Those considering implant removal should think carefully about their reasons for originally getting implants and what motivated their change of heart. Being psychologically ready for a flatter, more natural breast contour is crucial. Implant removal is permanent, so candidates should feel completely comfortable with the potential results.

Benefits of Breast Implant Removal

Removing implants can help to improve self-image and self-confidence. For those who feel that their breasts no longer match their aesthetic vision, explant surgery offers a chance to return to a more natural look.

Explant surgery eliminates concerns and symptoms that are sometimes associated with breast implants. Removal can alleviate pain, swelling, tingling, and hardness or distortion in the breast area. It also reduces the risk of implant rupture and leakage of silicone or saline into surrounding tissue.

Removing breast implants can enable an active lifestyle that is often incompatible with augmentations. Physical activities like running may become easier without heavy implants that weigh down the chest. Some women also experience enhanced sensation and satisfaction with intimacy after this surgery.

Cost of Breast Implant Removal in Austin, TX

The cost of saline and silicone breast implant removal in Austin, TX, ranges from $3,000 to $9,000. This includes: surgeon’s fee; anesthesia; facility fees; capsulectomy (if needed). Our Austin plastic surgery practice offers many options to make implant removal more affordable. We collaborate with CareCredit, Alphaeon, and Prosper to provide flexible financing plans for every patient.

How Is Our Breast Implant Removal Surgery Different From Others?

At Aspira Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our goal is to treat patients as if they  are members of our family. We strive to deliver a personalized, friendly, and comfortable experience for every person who walks through our doors.

With over 25 years of experience performing a wide range of surgeries, Dr. Erella has the knowledge and skills to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals.  His commitment continues beyond surgery through close follow-up care and undivided attention. Dr. Erella makes sure that each woman is fully recovered and happy with her results. This personalized approach is central to his practice philosophy. All our patients feel cared for and supported at all times.

Breast Implant Removal (Explant) Surgery in Austin, TX