Surgical ProceduresBreast Implant Removal (Explant Surgery)

Many women with breast implants eventually decide to have them removed with or without replacing the implants. There are a variety of different reasons for making this decision.

Breast Implant Removal (Explant Surgery) surgery gold coast

Other procedures that can performed simultaneously include fat grafting and a breast lift (mastopexy). A mastopexy may be required to address any sagging or excess skin that may result from the removal of the implants. Fat grafting or an implant may be required to restore volume.

Before and afters Want to see our results with previous patients?

Things to consider when choosing your implants: Why do some patients choose to have their implants removed?

  • Lifestyle Deciding to remove breast implants is a personal and often complex lifestyle choice that can be motivated by various factors such as health concerns, changes in personal preferences, or simply the desire for a different appearance.
  • Medical Reasons Patients experiencing complications such as capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant), implant rupture, leakage, or persistent pain may seek removal. Additionally, those who have been diagnosed with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) or have concerns about breast implant illness (BII), a condition that some patients attribute to their implants, may also consider this procedure.
  • Aesthetic Concerns Patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their implants, whether due to changes in their body over time, dissatisfaction with the size or shape, or a desire for a more natural look, may opt for removal. This can include those who feel their implants no longer suit their lifestyle or aesthetic preferences.
  • Health Considerations Some patients pursue implant removal as part of a broader shift toward body autonomy, wellness, or a preference for a lifestyle that feels more in tune with their natural state. This choice may be influenced by evolving views on health, ageing, or a desire to reduce foreign materials in the body, even in the absence of medical issues.

The Coastal Clinic Surgeons Who Perform This Surgery

Meet our surgeons →

The procedure Breast Implant Removal

We’ve sat down with Dr Cronin to discuss some of the most commonly asked questions about Breast Implant Removal surgery.
  • Why do women choose to have their implants removed?
  • What to expect at your first consultation
  • What is an En-Bloc
  • What scarring should you expect when explanting?
  • Recovering after surgery
  • When can I return to exercise?
  • How does the breast change after explant surgery?

Watch the video to learn about Breast Implant Removal with Dr Drew Cronin.

Get in touch with

We invite you to reach out to our dedicated team to discuss your surgical and non-surgical needs. At The Coastal Clinic, we understand that every individual has specific goals and concerns. Our patient liaisons are here to answer any of your questions.

The procedure How is a breast implant removal procedure performed?

Incision

The surgeon makes an incision to access the implants. The incision location can vary, but it is often made along the same incision lines as the initial breast augmentation to minimise additional scarring. Common incision sites include:

Along the inframammary fold (underneath the breast)

Around the areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple)

In the armpit (less common)

Implant Removal

Capsulectomy (if necessary)

Breast Lift, Fat Grafting and/or Replacement of Implants (if necessary)

Closing the Incisions

Potential Benefits of Breast Implant Explantation

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, offers various benefits to individuals who decide to undergo the procedure. These benefits can be broadly categorised into medical, aesthetic, and psychological aspects. Here are some key advantages of breast implant removal:

  • Resolution of implant-related complications
  • Correction of implant-related aesthetic concerns
  • Some patients may experience an improvement in BII related symptoms

Breast Implant Removal (Explant Surgery) Recovery & Aftercare

Initial Recovery

You will usually be discharged home from hospital the same day. You are required to have someone pick you up from the hospital and remain with you for the first 24 hours. You will be placed in a surgical bra which is to be worn at all times for the first 6 weeks. Surgical garments provide compression to the site and assist in reducing swelling and support healing.

Pain Management

Follow-Up Appointments

Gradual Activity Resumption

Scar Care

Monitor for Complications

Removal of Implants After an Implant Rupture

Women that have ruptured implants or concerns regarding ALCL may have an En-Bloc dissection in order to ensure any harmful elements are contained within the specimen and cannot leak into the pocket previously containing the implant. Watch this video to of Dr Drew Cronin showing the opening of a capsule and the ruptured implant contained within.

Breast augmentation surgeryFrequently Asked Questions

If we haven’t addressed your inquiries yet, here are some frequently asked questions that may provide the information you’re looking for. However, if you still have any remaining questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic at 07 5683 0820 or via email at admin@thecoastalclinic.com.au. Our team is ready to assist you.

Can Dr Cronin guarantee an en bloc capsulectomy?

An en-bloc capsulectomy is performed when the entire capsule is removed as a single specimen, with the undisturbed implant still inside, the procedure is referred to as an ‘En-Bloc’ dissection.

Dr Cronin cannot guarantee an en-bloc capsulectomy due to a variety of reasons. Implants that have been placed behind the pectoralis muscle can sometimes be difficult to remove as an En-Bloc dissection, particularly if the capsule is thin and right up against the ribs. There are numerous reported cases of significant injury and harm caused to patients by the aggressive attempt to remove the breast implants as part of an En-Bloc when deemed inappropriate.

It is always important to discuss with your surgeon the balance of risks and benefits with En-Bloc dissection in your particular circumstances.

Will I need a breast lift after my implants are removed?

Can I have fat grafting when my implants are removed?

Scarring after breast implant removal (Removal + Lift)

How do I prepare for breast implant removal?

Scarring after breast implant removal (Removal Only)

Is breast implant removal covered by Medicare?

What is the cost of an explant and what is included in the cost?

Breast Implant Removal Risks of Surgery

As part of our commitment to delivering exceptional patient care, we aim to provide you with comprehensive information regarding the general risks associated with surgical procedures, anaesthesia, and procedure-specific risks.

Specific Procedure Risks

  • Loss of nipple sensation
  • Parasthesia (may be numbness or tingling)
  • Asymmetry
  • Inability to breast feed
  • Puckering at wound edges
  • Seroma
  • Extended Drainage period

General Operative and Anaesthetic risks