Implant Removal (Explant Surgery)

Implant Removal Surgeon Central Coast & Sydney

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure to remove breast implants that were placed during a previous augmentation or reconstruction. At the Oncoplastic Surgical Centre in Central Coast and Sydney, this procedure is undertaken in accordance with clinical indications, individual circumstances, and established surgical protocols. Each case is managed according to the relevant clinical requirements.

Understanding Breast Implant Removal

There are various reasons a person may consider this procedure. These can include medical considerations such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, pain, or changes in breast tissue. Some individuals may have personal reasons for seeking removal, or their surgeon may advise it based on imaging findings or long-term implant factors.

Each patient’s circumstances are different. A consultation with an experienced oncoplastic or reconstructive surgeon allows for an assessment that takes into account medical history, the current condition of the breasts, and the type of implant used. The consultation is an opportunity to review imaging results and discuss the surgical method and associated considerations.

Procedure Overview

Explant surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The specific surgical technique depends on factors such as implant type, the condition of the surrounding tissue, and the location of previous surgical incisions.

The procedure may involve:

• Removal of the implant, often through the incision from the initial surgery where suitable.
• Capsulectomy, which is the removal of the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant, when clinically indicated.
• Management of the remaining breast tissue for support and balance.

If the implant removal is part of a breast reconstruction process, other procedures may be discussed following a thorough medical assessment.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

After the procedure, patients are monitored in a clinical setting. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising can be expected during the initial healing phase. Dressings and supportive garments are used as required, and follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress.

The duration of recovery varies based on the specifics of the surgery, the individual’s healing process, and whether other procedures were performed concurrently.

Patients are provided with postoperative instructions to support the healing process and help manage potential complications.

Risks and Considerations

As with any operation, explant surgery has potential risks. These can include bleeding, infection, scarring, fluid accumulation, asymmetry, or changes in the shape of the breasts.

Before the procedure, the surgeon will discuss these potential risks, along with any additional factors relevant to the patient’s prior implant history or type of reconstruction.

Preoperative planning and appropriate imaging are used to determine a suitable surgical approach for each patient.

Consultation at Oncoplastic Surgical Centre

At the Oncoplastic Surgical Centre, consultations are conducted by surgeons with specialised experience in reconstructive and oncoplastic breast surgery. The consultation aims to provide medically factual information, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about implant removal.

This provides general information about removing breast implants (explant). It does not replace a consultation, clinical assessment, or individualised planning.