Not every breast implant journey ends with augmentation. Patients seek implant removal (explant) or revision surgery for many reasons — capsular contracture, implant rupture or rippling, a change in aesthetic preference, or simply wanting their implants out. This guide covers what to expect if you’re considering removal or revision at Ocean Plastic Surgery Center.
Common Reasons for Implant Removal or Revision
- Capsular contracture: Scar tissue tightening around the implant, causing firmness, discomfort, or a distorted shape.
- Implant rupture or rippling: Especially relevant to older implants; the FDA recommends periodic monitoring of silicone implants for silent rupture.
- Change in size or aesthetic preference: Many patients revisit their original implant choice years later as their goals or lifestyle change.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): A term describing a range of systemic symptoms some patients associate with their implants, prompting a personal decision to explant.
- Bottoming out or malposition: When an implant shifts out of ideal position over time, requiring surgical correction.
Removal With or Without Replacement
Some patients choose to have implants removed entirely (explant), sometimes paired with a breast lift to address skin laxity left behind. Others choose revision, replacing the existing implant with a different size, style, or a fresh implant after a rupture. Which path makes sense depends on your skin elasticity, breast tissue volume, and personal goals — all evaluated during consultation.
What to Expect in Recovery
Recovery from implant removal or revision is generally similar to or shorter than the original augmentation, typically involving a week of rest before returning to light activity, with full recovery over several weeks. If a lift is performed at the same time, recovery follows a similar timeline to a standalone breast lift.
Why Choose Ocean Plastic Surgery Center
Dr. Raman Mehrzad approaches revision surgery with the same individualized evaluation as a first-time augmentation, since every explant or revision case has a different starting point. Read more about our breast augmentation techniques or browse our full range of breast procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
BII refers to a range of systemic symptoms — such as fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog — that some patients associate with their breast implants. It is not an officially recognized medical diagnosis, but it is a legitimate reason many patients choose to pursue explant surgery.
Will I need a breast lift if I remove my implants?
It depends on your skin elasticity and how long you’ve had implants. Many patients benefit from a lift performed at the same time to address skin laxity left behind after removal.
How do I know if my implant has ruptured?
Silicone implant rupture is often silent and detected only through MRI or ultrasound screening, which is why periodic monitoring is recommended. Saline implant rupture is usually noticeable as a rapid change in breast size.
Is implant removal covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Some insurers cover removal in cases of confirmed rupture or capsular contracture, while removal for aesthetic preference or BII concerns is typically not covered. Our office can help you understand your specific plan’s requirements.