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What Is Breast Explant Surgery?

Breast explant surgery, also referred to as breast implant removal, is a surgical procedure performed to remove breast implants following breast augmentation. The procedure is performed for cosmetic, medical, or personal reasons.

Common Reasons for Undergoing Breast Explant Surgery

Many women choose to undergo breast explant surgery because they are no longer happy with the results of their breast augmentation. They may choose to have the implants removed completely and have a breast lift performed to enhance the shape of their breasts, or they may choose to switch to smaller or large implants.

Some women may not be happy with the results of their breast augmentation once they see their full results and opt to undergo breast explant surgery. The implants may be poorly placed, or the procedure may have been poorly executed.

Breast explant surgery is also performed in cases where an issue or complications has occurred with the implant following breast augmentation. A common complication that can occur is capsular contracture where a capsule of scar tissue forms around the breasts that can place pressure on the implant and can cause it to become deformed and can cause the area to become painful to the touch. Other issues such as infection or the implant shifting over time can also be a reason to undergo breast explant surgery.

Implant rupture is another common reason why women may undergo breast explant surgery. Saline implant rupture is more obvious, but silicone implant ruptures can also cause issues and should be removed or replaced if ruptured.

How Breast Explant is Performed

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. During the breast implant removal, incisions are made along the same one made during the initial breast augmentation. The implants are then carefully removed.

In the case of capsular contracture, a capsulectomy may be performed to remove both the implant and the scar tissue. A breast lift is typically performed following breast explant to correct any sagging that is likely to occur.

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patient consultation with doctor for breast explant procedure in Atlanta, GA
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Breast Explant Recovery

Recovery length can vary between patients based on the extent of the procedure and other factors. Some discomfort and swelling are to be expected but should subside over the coming days. Strenuous activity will need to be avoided for around six weeks.

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If you are no longer happy with your breast implants or have a medical issue and would like to have them removed, contact Marietta Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled plastic surgeons. Our team is dedicated to providing you with excellent care and beautiful results. We are conveniently located to serve Atlanta, Marietta and Woodstock, GA.

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