What is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery is a procedure to take out silicone or saline implants from the breast. Some women choose this surgery because of complications, discomfort, or personal reasons. Others may need it due to implant rupture or capsular contracture.
During the procedure, the surgeon may also remove scar tissue that has formed around the implant. This is called a capsulectomy. In some cases, women may choose to replace the old implants with new ones or combine the surgery with a breast lift for better breast aesthetics.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It usually takes one to three hours. Most women go home the same day.
Common Reasons to Consider Breast Implant Removal
There are several medical and personal reasons why women consider breast implant removal. Each case is unique, but the most common reasons include:
Capsular contracture: The scar tissue around the implant hardens and may cause pain or change the breast shape.
Implant rupture or leakage: Silicone or saline can leak, leading to changes in breast appearance or health concerns.
Breast implant illness (BII): Some women report symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog that they associate with their implants.
Changes in personal preference: Some women no longer want the size or feel of their implants as they age or experience lifestyle changes.
Cosmetic changes over time: Aging, weight changes, or pregnancy can affect the look of augmented breasts.
Concerns about long-term safety: Some women remove implants due to anxiety about potential future health risks.
Desire for a more natural look: The trend toward natural aesthetics has led some women to remove their implants.
Medical Necessity vs. Cosmetic Reasons for Removal
Breast implant removal can be medically necessary or done for cosmetic reasons. Understanding the difference helps guide the treatment plan and expectations.
Medical Necessity
Removal is considered medically necessary when the implants cause health problems or interfere with daily life. These cases often require prompt attention and may be covered by insurance:
Capsular contracture causing pain or distortion
Implant rupture or leakage
Infection around the implant
Breast implant-associated illness or autoimmune reactions
Breast cancer screening difficulties due to implants
Cosmetic Reasons
Cosmetic removal is based on personal choice rather than medical need. It reflects a change in body image or lifestyle. These procedures are elective and usually not covered by insurance:
Desire to return to natural breast size
Dissatisfaction with the appearance of the implants
Changes in body proportions after weight changes or aging
Preference for a different implant size or shape
In many cases, both medical and cosmetic factors influence the decision. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon can help clarify the reasons and the best course of action.
How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?
The cost of breast implant removal varies depending on the country, the clinic, and the complexity of the surgery. It also depends on whether other procedures, like a capsulectomy or breast lift, are done at the same time.
Average Costs by Region
United States: Prices are among the highest. Typical cost range: approximately $2,000–6,500, with an average near $3,800 (excluding hospital fees and anesthesia)
United Kingdom: Slightly more affordable than the US, but still considered expensive. Average cost: £3,000–6,000 (roughly $3,800–7,500), depending on region and clinic.
Western Europe: Countries like Germany, France, or the Netherlands offer quality care, but costs are similar to the UK. Breast implant removal procedures generally range from €3,000–6,000 (about $3,300–6,600)
Türkiye: Offers the same high standards of care at significantly lower prices. Surgeons in Türkiye are internationally trained, and hospitals follow European safety protocols. The lower cost is due to favorable economic conditions, not lower quality. Many patients from the US and Europe choose Türkiye for this reason. Offers notably lower prices: commonly between $1,100–4,000 (around €2,500–3,700) for the full procedure, surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay, and basic follow-up care
Patients can receive world-class medical care, stay in modern facilities, and benefit from experienced surgeons—at a fraction of the price they would pay in the US or Europe.
What Happens During Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes one to three hours. The exact approach depends on the type of implant, the reason for removal, and whether additional procedures are planned.
Step-by-Step Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Here is a step-by-step overview of the breast implant removal procedure. Each step is carefully planned to ensure patient safety and optimal results:
Preoperative preparation
The patient undergoes a medical evaluation. The surgical plan is confirmed. General anesthesia is administered.
Incision
The surgeon makes an incision, usually along the original scar to minimize new scarring.
Implant removal
The implant is gently removed. If it is intact, it is taken out as a whole. If ruptured, the area is cleaned to remove any leaked material.
Capsule removal (if needed)
If there is hardened or thick scar tissue, a partial or total capsulectomy is done. This involves removing the capsule that formed around the implant.
Additional procedures (if planned)
If the patient has chosen a breast lift or to replace the implant, these steps are performed in the same session.
Wound closure
The surgeon closes the incisions with sutures. Sterile dressings are applied. In some cases, small drains are placed to help remove fluid.
Recovery room
The patient is monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Most patients can go home the same day.
This structured approach helps minimize risks and ensures a smooth recovery.
Capsulectomy and Removal of Scar Tissue Around the Implant
A capsulectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the fibrous scar tissue (called the capsule) that forms around a breast implant. This capsule is the body’s natural response to any foreign object. In most cases, it is soft and causes no problems. But in some women, it becomes thick or tight, leading to pain or changes in breast shape. This condition is known as capsular contracture.
Types of Capsulectomy
Partial capsulectomy: Only part of the capsule is removed. The rest may be left if it is soft and not causing symptoms.
Total capsulectomy: The entire capsule is removed, often when it is very thick or painful.
En bloc capsulectomy: The implant and the entire capsule are removed together, in one piece. This is usually done if there is concern about implant rupture or breast implant illness.
When It Is Needed
A capsulectomy is often performed during implant removal if:
There is capsular contracture
The implant is ruptured or leaking
The patient has chronic pain or discomfort
There is a suspected or confirmed infection
There is concern about breast implant illness or lymphoma
The decision to remove the capsule depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s assessment during the operation. Removing the capsule can improve symptoms, restore comfort, and help create a more natural breast shape.
Surgical Options for Maintaining Breast Shape After Removal
After breast implant removal, some patients may notice changes in breast shape, volume, or skin elasticity. To improve or maintain breast appearance, several surgical options can be considered. The choice depends on the patient’s breast tissue, skin quality, and cosmetic goals.
1. Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
This procedure removes excess skin and tightens the breast tissue. It raises the breasts and reshapes them after implant removal. A breast lift can help if the breasts look saggy or deflated.
2. Fat Transfer (Autologous Fat Grafting)
Fat is taken from another part of the body (like the abdomen or thighs) and injected into the breasts. It offers a modest increase in volume and can improve contour. Results look natural but are limited by the amount of fat that survives.
3. New Implants
Some patients choose to replace their old implants with new ones—either smaller, more natural in shape, or using a different material. This option maintains volume and fullness.
4. No Additional Surgery
In some cases, especially when the patient has good skin tone and enough breast tissue, no extra procedure is needed. The body gradually adjusts, and the breasts may settle into a natural shape over time.
A qualified plastic surgeon helps determine the best approach. The goal is to achieve a natural, balanced look that fits the patient’s body and expectations.
What to Expect in Recovery Following Breast Implant Removal?
Recovery after breast implant removal is usually smoother than the initial augmentation surgery. However, the timeline and comfort level can vary depending on whether additional procedures, like a capsulectomy or breast lift, were performed.
Recovery Timeline
First few days: You may feel soreness, swelling, and tightness. Pain is usually mild to moderate and managed with prescribed medications. Drains, if used, are typically removed within a few days.
First week: Most patients can return to light activities within a week. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise during this period.
Weeks 2–4: Swelling starts to decrease. Stitches may be removed if they are not dissolvable. Bruising fades. You may gradually return to more regular activity.
After one month: Most people return to full activity. The final shape of the breasts begins to settle.
3 to 6 months: Scar tissue softens. Breast shape continues to improve. Final results are usually visible around this time.
Wearing a surgical bra, attending follow-up visits, and following aftercare instructions help ensure smooth healing. Most patients report feeling better and more comfortable within a few weeks.
Breast Implant Removal or Replacement: Which Option is Right for You?
Deciding between breast implant removal or replacement is personal. It depends on your health, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle. A consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can help clarify your best option. Here are key points to consider:
Choose Removal if:
You want a more natural look or smaller breast size
You have health concerns related to implants, such as rupture or breast implant illness
You’ve experienced complications like capsular contracture
You no longer feel implants fit your body image or lifestyle
Choose Replacement if:
You still want enhanced breast volume or shape
You want to switch to a different implant size, shape, or material
Your implants have aged and need to be updated (usually after 10–15 years)
You want to correct asymmetry or improve cosmetic results
Some patients also choose a combination approach: remove the implants and undergo a lift or fat transfer to maintain shape. The right choice depends on how you want to look and feel after surgery. A skilled surgeon will help guide you through these decisions safely.
How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Breast Implant Removal
Choosing the right surgeon for breast implant removal is essential for a safe procedure and satisfying results. Not every plastic surgeon has the same level of experience with this surgery, especially when it involves complications or additional procedures like capsulectomy or a lift.
What to Look For:
Board Certification
Choose a surgeon certified in plastic surgery by a recognized board in your country. This ensures they have formal training and meet safety standards.
Experience with Explant Surgery
Ask how many breast implant removal procedures they have done. Experience with capsulectomy, breast lift, or fat transfer is also important.
Before-and-After Photos
Review their previous work to see results from patients similar to you.
Facility Accreditation
Make sure the surgery will be done in a fully accredited hospital or surgical center.
Clear Communication
The surgeon should explain the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes clearly. You should feel comfortable asking questions.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Look for reviews from patients who had implant removal, not just augmentation.
In Türkiye, many clinics and surgeons meet international standards. They combine medical expertise with high-quality care at more affordable prices. Always verify credentials and ask for a detailed treatment plan before making a decision.
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