There are a number of reasons why women would opt for breast implant removal, from aesthetics to health concerns. In many cases, women that choose breast implant removal surgery do so to change the size of the breast implants, either larger or smaller, or to lift the breast. In the 1990s there was a concern that silicone breast implants caused several health problems, a fact that has been subsequently disproven by clinical studies. Saline implant removal is almost always done for cosmetic reasons or as part of breast cancer treatment.

Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Breast implant removal surgery will differ depending on whether the implant is being replaced with another breast implant (most common) or simply removed altogether. Breast implant removal will usually follow the same approach that was taken during the initial implantation. In other words, if the original implant was placed through the areola, the breast implant removal will be done the same way. However if a different look is desired or if the breast implant is being replaced, the breast implant removal may be done using a different approach. Breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia and is considered same day surgery.

Risks of Breast Implant Removal

Aside from infection and fluid deposition under the skin, the most common complication of breast implant removal surgery is that the final look of the breasts will not be as the patient had anticipated. In many respects it is easier to perform an initial breast augmentation than a breast implant removal with replacement. If the breast implant is not going to be replaced, you should be aware that breast implant removal surgery will significantly change the look of the breast.

Recovery from Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Recovery from breast implant removal surgery is similar to the process and ordeal involved in the original breast augmentation. This is especially true if the breast implants are replaced during the procedure. There will be some soreness and swelling that is minimized with medication and special garments. Also, just as in the initial augmentation, the breast implants will not reach their resting location for some weeks after breast implant removal surgery.

Breast Implant Surgery Cost

Breast implant removal cost can vary considerably. Breast implant removal is a cosmetic procedure and will not be covered by health insurance in the United States. You should anticipate that breast implant removal cost will be about $4,000.

Consulting with a Plastic Surgeon Professional

Breast implant removal surgery is slightly more technically challenging than a simple breast augmentation surgery. Therefore it is important to find a plastic surgeon that has not only performed breast implant surgery but one that is skilled at breast implant removal as well.