You have the right to have a figure that matches your vision, which may require removing your implants and replacing them with smaller or larger implants — or returning to your natural breast size. In some cases, breast implant removal is performed to replace older implants or resolve a complication.
Whether your ideal figure is sleek or sexy, Dr. Courtney will work with you to map out the steps to achieve the figure you envision. If you’re in Houston, TX and seeking breast implant removal, we urge you to contact us.
For many women, their relationship with their implants is love at first sight. The 32,218 ratings for breast augmentation on RealSelf average a 98% “Worth It” rating. So why remove them?
If you love your implants and they’re working for you, don’t concern yourself with removal. Keep enjoying them. However, many women do choose to remove their breast implants for a range of personal reasons, which may include:
Dr. Courtney will discuss why you want to remove your implants so that together, you can explore options for exchange or replacement. And if you’re removing implants without replacing them, a breast lift can restore a lifted, rounded appearance.
You can expect honest and accurate guidance from Dr. Courtney during your consultation for breast implant removal in Houston. Our patients report that Dr. Courtney listens with open-minded compassion and often talk about how comfortable they feel asking questions about the various issues associated with the procedure. Breast implant removal has the ability to provide a beautiful figure — no matter your age, weight, or circumstances.
Removing only the implants is a quick and relatively straightforward procedure. An incision is created — typically in the breast crease — and the implant is then meticulously removed. Patients with saline implants may be candidates for implant draining before removal, allowing a smaller incision. Some patients receiving implant removal only can have the procedure done under local anesthesia in the office.
The capsule is a scar tissue coating that forms around the implant and pocket. These tissue capsules develop around every implanted medical device, including pacemakers and artificial joints. When the implant removal includes a capsulectomy, the implant is removed along with the scar tissue capsule. Capsule removal isn’t always necessary, but it may be necessary if you have capsular contracture or ruptured silicone implants.
En bloc breast implant removal is a specialized surgical procedure. The implant and the capsule are removed as a single unit. This procedure may be appropriate if you are experiencing problems with implants or if leakage is suspected. Keeping the capsule intact can be helpful in warding off any health risks associated with infection.
Breast implants stretch and expand the skin and tissues. After removing the implants, the breasts may be left looking deflated and empty. Pairing your implant removal with a breast lift will reshape the breast tissue, helping to restore youthful, round, natural breast appearance. Generally, the larger the implant, the more necessary it is to perform a lift.
Sometimes breast implants require replacement for various reasons. If you’re experiencing complications with your implants or if you feel you want to change the size of your breasts, it may be time to remove and replace your implants.
Fat grafting can replace the volume that the implants once provided. This procedure allows you to enhance breast size without the need to place new implants. Your own fat cells are harvested, purified, and transferred to the breasts to add subtle volume.
Breast implant removal may be performed under general anesthesia in our fully-equipped operating room. Some patients can have their implants removed with a local anesthetic and intravenous sedation, but this is less common.
An incision is placed in the breast crease, and the implant is gently removed. The placement of your incision will depend on the location of your augmentation incisions. Generally, the same incision site is chosen (with no additional scars created), but every patient is different.
If Dr. Courtney is performing an en bloc breast implant removal, the implant and capsule are removed as a single unit. If capsulectomy is needed after implant removal, the implant will first be removed, and then the capsule is removed. Patients that are receiving a breast lift or fat grafting will have this second surgery performed directly after the implant is removed. Some patients will need drains. The drains are put in place after the implant is removed. Compression bandaging helps to alleviate swelling and fluid accumulation during recovery.
You have several options for breast implant removal. Dr. Courtney and his staff will ensure you understand your options and help you choose the most effective procedure for your goals. Usually, there is a clear-cut optimal choice. We can help you come to an educated decision.
Dr. Courtney is known for his skill and compassionate bedside manner. He was mentored by very prominent and esteemed plastic surgeons at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, and in addition, he was nationally recognized as one of six outstanding surgeons for his research by The American Society of Plastic Surgery. This means that your breast implant removal procedure will be performed by an accomplished breast surgeon. His relaxed and approachable personality is often his patients’ favorite part of the process.
Plan on taking a few days off from work. Breast implant removal has a shorter recovery timeline, while implant removal combined with a custom breast lift can have a slightly longer recovery timeline. Dr. Courtney can give you a better idea of what to expect during your breast implant removal consultation in our Houston office.
Tenderness, tightness, and bruising are normal reactions. Rest as much as you can during the first few days and slowly return to your daily activities. Many women find that implant removal has an easier recovery than the recovery after augmentation. Your recovery experience will largely depend on the type of removal performed. You will be given detailed aftercare instructions, and we will be closely monitoring your recovery throughout the process. We care about our patients and go above and beyond to ensure all goes well.
The cost of your procedure will depend on the type of implant removal and complexity. On average a breast explant is between $12,500-$13,500. Receive a customized estimate during a plastic surgery consultation with Dr. Courtney.
Some tenderness is expected during recovery, but thanks to pain medication, most women find the process is relatively comfortable. We offer several tips for managing discomfort. If you experience pain or discomfort, let us know so we can help you remain comfortable during healing.
Breast implants do not need to be removed on a specific schedule. If your implants are working well and you have no problems, removing them is not typically necessary. Many women that have had breast implants for many years choose to remove or replace them so they can enjoy the benefits of newer, modern implant types. Implant manufacturers often advise replacing implants every ten years, but if they are problem-free, you can wait longer to undergo replacement.
Breast implants are commonly removed and replaced in a single surgery.
Your breasts are called “sisters, not twins” for a reason. Ideally, they should look very similar. This symmetry is best accomplished when both breasts are treated in the same surgery. The breast implant manufacturer’s warranty suggests that patients have both of their implants replaced every ten years. If we remove or replace the implant on one side, we highly recommend replacing both implants in the same surgery.
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