Implant Removal +/- Capsulectomy
You may wish to have your implants removed and this can be for a variety of reasons. Usually the same scar that was created to insert your implants will be used to remove the implant although if there is a reason to remove the capsule or you wish to have it removed the scar will be longer. It may be appropriate to consider lifting the breast tissue after removing breast implants as the tissues have stretched. Some patients may want to have the implant and capsule removed as one (en-bloc) and this can be discussed in the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does surgery involve?
Your implants are removed via the same incision used to insert them. In some cases the scar may need to be longer. If the capsule (scar tissue around the implant) is also being removed this will be done at the same time and drains will be inserted. The skin will be stitched closed and a dressing placed.
2How can I prepare for surgery?
You will need to buy a post-surgical front-fastening bra. You should buy a selection of sizes. You will need to wear the bra day and night for 6 weeks after surgery to reduce fluid build-up. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication.
3What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. Details of your implants will be taken when they are removed and the information entered into the Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry.
4What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical bra day and night for 6 weeks.
5What about mammograms?
When having mammograms in the future you should let them know you have had surgery. There is a higher chance you will be recalled to check an area in the breast but there is no increased chance of getting breast cancer after this surgery.
6How will my breasts look after having the implants removed?
Your breast tissue will have been stretched from having implants inside. It is difficult to predict to what extent the skin and tissues will ‘recoil’. You should be prepared to have some loose skin and a greater degree of ptosis (droop) of the breast than you did with the implants in place.
- Surgical time – 2-3 hours
- Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
- Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
- Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
- Shower – immediately
- Reasonably mobile – 2-7 days
- Sleeping position – back or side
- Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
- Bras and garments – front fastening post-op bra for 6 weeks day and night
- Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks when comfortable
- Full recovery – 6 weeks
- Driving – 1-2 weeks
- Drains – yes for capsulectomy, removed day 1