Removal of breast implants
The removal of breast implants is a surgical procedure that involves removing the breast implants and, in many cases, the periprosthetic capsule that surrounds the prosthesis.
- Surgery time 30-90 minutes
- General and local anesthesia / local and sedation
- Outpatient surgery
- No drains, except if a capsulectomy is performed
- Recovery room stay 1-2 hours
- Quick recovery 1-2 days
- Exercise from 2 weeks onwards
- Preoperative assessment
- Procedure
- Recovery room
- Postoperative follow-ups
- Compression band and post-surgery bras kit
- 24-hour emergency phone.
What does implant removal involve?
The removal of breast implants is a surgical procedure that involves removing the breast implants and, in many cases, the periprosthetic capsule that surrounds the prosthesis. Usually, the same scar is used for the removal, but in some cases an incision in the submammary fold is preferred. In some cases, a mastopexy (breast lift) is performed at the same time as the removal, which may also be combined with a lipotransfer to maintain a more appropriate breast volume.
Who is it recommended for?
It is indicated for women who no longer want to keep their breast implants. The reasons for removal vary, from personal and psychological reasons, to problems caused by capsular contracture, or fear of needing reoperation in the future when they are older.
The alternative that produces the best results is to perform a lipotransfer at the same time as the implant removal. If the areola-nipple complex is positioned lower, a breast augmentation mastopexy (lift and increase in breast size) can be combined with the lipotransfer.
Planning
During the first consultation, the size and shape of the breasts will be assessed, as well as the firmness of the skin and your overall health. You will be explained the different surgical techniques, and we will discuss the size and shape your breasts will have, along with the options or combination of procedures that are best for you.
Surgery
It is performed under general anesthesia at the Hospital Mediterráneo on an outpatient basis, meaning you do not need hospital admission. The average stay in the recovery room is 2 hours.
Through a small incision of 5 cm, which can be used to remove the implant and, if necessary, perform a capsulectomy.
No drains are placed, except for a few well-justified exceptions. A 3M Micropore paper tape is applied, and it is kept in place for three weeks until the stitches are removed.
What is the postoperative period like?
You will not need dressing changes, since the incision is protected with a tape until the stitches are removed. After breast surgery, it is normal to feel somewhat tired for a few days, but you will be able to live almost normally once you leave the recovery room, thanks to the local anesthesia we use during the procedure. It is very important to do movements that begin in the recovery room; this will help us avoid shoulder, back, and neck contracture, which are responsible for postoperative pain. (video)
Most discomfort can be managed well with the prescribed medication, although the breasts may feel sore for a couple of weeks.
What risks and complications are there?
Implant removal has very few risks. The most common would be a seroma (fluid collection), which can be solved at the clinic. The other risks are those inherent to any surgical procedure.
Frequently asked questions
Does implant removal hurt?
Implant removal is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, to which we add local anesthesia. Therefore, the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. The immediate postoperative period (first 12 hours) is not painful, thanks to local anesthesia with adrenaline. When you get home, you begin with the medication and the exercises to avoid muscle contracture, which is what causes the postoperative pain. In this way, the patient returns to their usual routine, avoiding exercise and gaining weight for a few weeks.
When can I return to my everyday life?
After implant removal, you will be able to return to work in a few days, depending on the activity you do. It is important not to make any efforts during the first two weeks.
When will I be able to resume my sports activities?
Start running again approximately from week 3 or 4. Begin in a moderate and progressive way.
Is Clínica de San Pío a good place for me to have a mastopexy in Almería?
Only a reference surgery center, with a long track record in this type of procedure—as is the case with Clínica de San Pío—can ensure the safety and quality required to carry out this procedure in Almería.
In Spain, you can verify the training of the plastic surgeon you consult through the College of Physicians in your province, and by visiting the website of the Spanish Society of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery (SECPRE).