Choosing to Remove Breast Implants: Breast Implant Illness and Other Reasons

Woman contemplating breast implant removal

Some individuals who believe they are experiencing symptoms related to their breast implants may opt for breast implant removal surgery in an attempt to alleviate their symptoms. However, it’s essential to approach this decision carefully and to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a board-certified plastic surgeon, who can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances.

If you are experiencing symptoms that you believe may be related to your breast implants, it’s important to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Dr. Ablavsky is a board-certified plastic surgeon in San Antonio and can help evaluate your symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on the latest medical evidence. Please call (210) 942-6672 or request a consultation online today.

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that some individuals attribute to their breast implants. These symptoms can vary widely and may include fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, hair loss, and others. However, it’s important to note that there is currently no scientifically established medical condition known as “breast implant illness.”

Research into the possible association between breast implants and systemic symptoms is ongoing, but findings have been inconclusive thus far. Regulatory agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continue to monitor the safety of breast implants and provide guidance based on the available evidence.

Breast Implant Removal Surgery to Treat Breast Implant Illness

Breast implant removal, also known as breast explant surgery, is a surgical procedure to remove breast implants from the body.

There are various reasons why someone might choose to have their breast implants removed, including:

  1. 1. Cosmetic reasons: Some individuals may no longer desire the appearance of breast implants and wish to return to their natural breast size and shape.
  2. 2. Medical reasons: This could include complications such as implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant), infection, pain, or discomfort.
  3. 3. Lifestyle changes: Preferences or lifestyle changes may lead someone to decide that they no longer want breast implants.

How Is Breast Implant Removal Performed?

The procedure for breast implant removal typically involves making an incision below the breast to access the implant, removing the implant itself, and addressing any surrounding scar tissue (capsule).

A thick, calcified capsule may warrant removal (a capsulectomy), but a soft capsule can be left alone (a basic explantation). Additional procedures may be performed concurrently, such as breast lift (mastopexy) to address sagging, an auto-augmentation (repositioning your breast tissue to enhance cleavage), or fat grafting.

Fat grafting of the breast includes performing liposuction to remove unwanted pockets of fat along the waistline, thighs, or back then processing the fat and reinjecting into the breasts for an augmentation without implants. 

Recovery From Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Recovery from breast implant removal surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors. It’s important to follow post-operative instructions carefully to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Take the Next Step

If you’re considering breast implant removal, schedule a consultation or call (210) 942-6672 Dr. Michael Ablavsky, a board-certified plastic surgeon in San Antonio, who can evaluate your individual situation, discuss your goals and concerns, and provide personalized recommendations for treatment.

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