Generally about the treatment
Breast augmentation is a very popular cosmetic operation, but in some cases the patient wishes to have their implants removed again.
The patient may feel unhappy with the size, shape or feel of the implants. They can sometimes feel hard in the case of capsular contracture. This occurs when excess tissue is formed around the implant, which results in a hard and ball-shaped implant, often with a deformed appearance.
The removal of an implant may become necessary if one of the implants have ruptured.
Suitability
Fit and healthy women over 18, who have had a breast enlargement operation, and who wish to have their breast implants removed.
The procedure
The surgeon will make an incision around areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), under the fold of the breast, or under the armpit. The surgeon will then remove the implant and the surrounding scar tissue.
If the implant is made from silicone, the surgeon will check if the implant has burst, prior to removal. If it is made from salt water, the implant will be drained, thereby making it easier to remove.
Anaesthesia
The operation will take place on an outpatient basis or under general anaesthesia followed by brief hospitalisation.
Side-effects
Mild soreness, swelling and bruising, as well as possible changes to the sensitivity of the nipple. A permanent scar will be left.
Risk of complications
The removal of an implant may leave the patient with asymmetric breasts, or excess skin. A breast lift will be able to correct this.
There is a risk of side effects from the anaesthetic used, along with bleeding, poor wound healing, a poor cosmetic result, and blood accumulation.
No form of surgery is risk free, although severe complications are very rare.
Healing and recovery
Work may be resumed within the following week. If the implants removed are silicone implants the patient should stay for observation for a few hours after the surgery.
Duration of the result
The result is permanent.