Implant removal - Removal of breast implants
The reasons why women decide to have implants removed can vary greatly. They can be of a medical nature, but personal circumstances can also change over time. The advancing ageing process and a change in aesthetic perception can also be reasons for the desire to have implants removed or to have an implant replaced. Implant replacement be.
Brief overview:
Duration of treatment:
1-2 hours
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthesia
Follow-up treatment:
Wearing a compression bra
Load restrictions:
1-2 weeks; no heavy work or sporting activities for up to 6 weeks
Associated terms:
Implant removal, extraction
How does implant removal work?
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic and takes 1-2 hours depending on the technique and findings. Access is via the original incision to avoid additional scarring. If capsular fibrosis has formed, the resulting tissue capsule and scar tissue are also removed.
Depending on the size of the implant and the condition of the tissue, an additional breast lift may be necessary. However, we will discuss this with you in advance in a detailed consultation.
If there is not enough breast tissue available, a Implant change or a Lipofilling come into question.
What needs to be considered after an implant removal?
The wound drains inserted during the operation can usually be removed after 1-2 days. As a rule, dissolvable suture material is used so that only the knot of the suture material needs to be cut after 2 weeks.
For support during the healing phase, we recommend wearing a compression bra day and night for a period of 6 weeks. You should also not sleep on your stomach for the first two weeks.
In general, you will be largely symptom-free again after just a few days and, depending on the activity, will be able to work after 1-2 weeks. If there are no complications, you should only resume sports training, lifting weights and overhead work after approx. 6 weeks. The final result is usually achieved after 3-6 months.
To help the scars heal, you can treat them with a moisturising cream. Also protect them from direct sunlight to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Questions and answers about implant removal
The pain can vary depending on the individual's sensitivity to pain and the type of technique used, but is usually very bearable and subsides quickly in the first few days after the operation. To alleviate the discomfort, we will provide you with painkillers and medication to take home to make you as comfortable as possible, minimise the risk of infection and promote rapid healing. The pain usually subsides after a week, but it can take several weeks or months for the swelling and bruising to disappear completely. The scars fade over time but remain permanently visible.
Although the risks of a pure implant removal are fairly low, it is still a surgical operation. These include very rare surgical risks such as infections or post-operative bleeding, but the removal of the implant can also lead to a deformation of the original breast shape. As a rule, however, this occurs extremely rarely with experienced surgeons.
Unfortunately, the costs of implant removal are only covered by health insurance in rare exceptional cases. As a rule, it is a self-payment service.
The costs depend on the local findings and the extent of the operation. The calculation is based on the GoÄ (scale of fees for doctors). We can therefore only give you a binding cost estimate during a personal consultation.
What should you look out for when choosing a doctor?
When choosing a specialist, make sure that you use the term Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery. Other designations such as beauty doctor, cosmetic surgeon, etc. are unprotected and not a sign of qualification (more on "What should you consider when choosing a specialist?„.
Make sure that you receive a comprehensive preliminary examination and information about the course of treatment, possible risks and the healing process.
Why should you come to us?
Extensive experience, maximum hygiene and infection protection, continuous further training and the utmost care are the basis of our practice. This is also reflected in the large number of positive patient reviews and our seals & awards.
Take advantage of our almost 20 years of experience for your desired change. Dr Michaela Montanari has been a member of the board of the German Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (DGÄPC) since 2021. She has also been certified since 27.02.24 by the DGPRÄC certified breast surgeon.
Do you have any questions?
We will be happy to answer all your questions about the procedure, options, risks or healing. Arrange your personal consultation. We will advise you individually about your options. In a personal and individual consultation, we will be happy to analyse your wishes and expectations regarding the removal of your silicone implant and discuss in detail the realistic results to be expected, conceivable risks and possible complications in order to develop a treatment concept that is right for you. We will also discuss with you whether an implant change or additional treatment with autologous fat might be necessary in your individual case in order to achieve a beautiful result.
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