Plastic Surgery Guide for Breast Implant Removal and Re - augmentation in New York City 2025

Introduction

In New York City, the realm of plastic surgery offers a wide range of options for those considering breast implant removal and re - augmentation. Whether it's due to medical reasons, cosmetic preferences, or lifestyle changes, making an informed decision is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various aspects of breast implant removal and re - augmentation, including the procedures, recovery, and choosing the right surgeon.

Understanding Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure that involves taking out breast implants from a woman's body. There are several reasons why a woman might consider this surgery.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

• Medical Complications:
  • Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, the shell of a breast implant can rupture or develop leaks. Silicone gel implants can leak without obvious symptoms, while saline implants will deflate rapidly. For example, if a patient experiences sudden changes in breast shape or size, it could be a sign of implant rupture.
  • Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant tightens and hardens. It can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. In severe cases, the breast may become firm and round, resembling a hard ball.
  • Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report experiencing a range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and other health issues after getting breast implants. While the medical community is still researching BII, some patients find relief after implant removal.
  • Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher risk of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in breast size or shape.
• Cosmetic Preferences:
  • Dissatisfaction with Size or Shape: A woman may feel that her current implants are too large, too small, or not the right shape for her body. Over time, her aesthetic preferences may change, leading her to seek a different look.
  • Desire for a More Natural Look: Some patients initially chose implants that created an artificial appearance, and later decide they want a more natural - looking and feeling breast.
• Lifestyle Changes: A change in lifestyle, such as a more active sports routine or a new career, may make breast implants less suitable. For example, some high - impact sports can be more challenging with large breast implants.

Types of Breast Implant Removal Surgeries

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal

Proper preparation is essential for a successful breast implant removal procedure. Here are the steps you should take:

Consultation with a Surgeon

Schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant removal. During this consultation:

• Discuss your reasons for wanting the surgery. Be open and honest about your medical history, including any previous surgeries, medications you are taking, and any allergies.
• The surgeon will assess your current breast condition, including the size and position of the implants, the amount of scar tissue, and the quality of your skin.
• You can ask questions about the procedure, the expected outcome, the recovery process, and the potential risks and complications.
• The surgeon will recommend the most appropriate type of removal surgery based on your individual circumstances.

Medical Preparations

• Stop Certain Medications: Avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to your procedure, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Also, avoid blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks before the surgery. Inform your prescribing physician about your plans to undergo breast implant removal so they can advise you on when to stop taking these medications.
• Smoking Cessation: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and slow down the healing process. Stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about available options.
• Medical Tests: Your surgeon may order some tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to assess the condition of your implants and breast tissue. These tests can help the surgeon plan the procedure more accurately.

Logistical Preparations

• Arrange for Transportation and Support: Since breast implant removal is typically an outpatient procedure, you will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. Also, arrange for someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery to assist with daily activities.
• Prepare Your Home: Stock up on necessary supplies, such as pain medication, ice packs, and comfortable clothing. Set up a comfortable recovery area in your home where you can rest and relax.

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

The breast implant removal procedure generally follows these steps:

Anesthesia

You will be given anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the surgery. The type of anesthesia used will depend on factors such as your overall health, the type of removal surgery, and your personal preferences. Options include local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

• Local Anesthesia with Sedation: This involves numbing only a specific area of your body while you remain conscious but relaxed. It is often used for less complex procedures or for patients who prefer to be awake during the surgery.
• General Anesthesia: This puts you into a deep sleep so that you do not feel anything during surgery. It is commonly used for more invasive procedures, such as en bloc removal.

Incision Placement

The incisions for breast implant removal can be made in one of three locations:

• Crease under the breast (Inframammary fold): This is a common location as it allows for easy access to the implants and the incisions can be well - hidden.
• Around the areola: Incisions made around the areola can also provide good access to the implants and may result in less visible scarring.
• Vertically placed in the armpit (Transaxillary): This approach offers a more hidden incision, but it may be more challenging to access the implants, especially if they are located deep within the breast tissue.

Removal of Implants and Scar Tissue

Once the incisions are made, the surgeon will remove the implants. The method of removal will depend on the type of surgery and the condition of the implants and surrounding tissue. For example, in en bloc removal, the entire implant and capsule are removed as one piece. After the implants are removed, the surgeon may also remove any excess scar tissue, silicone, or fluid from the breast pocket.

Closure of Incisions

The incisions are then closed using sutures, skin adhesives, tapes, or clips. The type of closure method used will depend on the size and location of the incisions. After the incisions are closed, a dressing or bandage will be applied to the area to protect the wound and promote healing.

Recovery from Breast Implant Removal

The recovery process after breast implant removal is an important part of the overall procedure. Here's what you can expect:

Immediate Post - operative Care

After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored closely. Your vital signs, such as your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, will be checked regularly. You may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the breast area. Pain medication will be provided to help manage the pain.

• You will be advised to wear a compression bra to help reduce swelling and support the breasts during the healing process.
• You may need to keep the incision sites clean and dry and follow any instructions provided by your surgeon regarding wound care.

Short - term Recovery

The first few days to weeks after surgery are crucial for recovery.

• Rest and Relaxation: It is important to rest as much as possible during the first few days after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for at least two weeks. This will allow your body time to heal and reduce the risk of complications.
• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after breast implant removal and may take several weeks to subside. Applying ice packs to the breast area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Pain Management: Continue to take pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon. If you experience severe pain or any unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately.
• Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon as scheduled. During these appointments, your surgeon will monitor your healing progress, remove any sutures if necessary, and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Long - term Recovery

Most patients can resume normal activities within 1 - 2 weeks after surgery, although it may take several months for the final results to be visible.

• Breast Changes: After the implants are removed, your breasts may appear flatter, smaller, or have a different shape. In some cases, a breast lift or fat transfer may be recommended to improve the appearance of the breasts.
• Scarring: The incisions will leave scars, but these should fade over time. Your surgeon may recommend scar - treatment products or techniques to help minimize the appearance of scars.

Breast Implant Re - augmentation

Some patients may choose to undergo breast implant re - augmentation after removing their existing implants. This can be done for various reasons, such as to change the size, shape, or type of implants, or to correct any issues with the previous implants.

Types of Implants

There are two main types of breast implants:

• Saline Implants: These implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are generally less expensive than silicone implants and may be recommended for some patients. However, they can sometimes feel firmer and less natural than silicone implants, and there is a risk of visible rippling.
• Silicone Implants: Silicone implants are filled with a soft, gelatin - like substance. They feel more natural and have a lower risk of rippling compared to saline implants. Silicone implants are currently the most popular choice due to their natural feel and appearance.

Procedure and Considerations

The breast implant re - augmentation procedure is similar to the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, there are some additional considerations:

• Scar Tissue: The presence of scar tissue from the previous surgery may make the re - augmentation procedure more challenging. Your surgeon will need to carefully assess the amount and location of the scar tissue and determine the best approach for removing it or working around it.
• Breast Tissue Quality: The quality of your breast tissue may have changed since the initial surgery. Your surgeon will need to evaluate the elasticity and thickness of the breast tissue to determine the appropriate size and type of implants.
• Recovery: The recovery process after breast implant re - augmentation is similar to that of the initial surgery, but it may take slightly longer due to the presence of scar tissue and the potential for more extensive surgery. You will need to follow your surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Selecting a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful breast implant removal and re - augmentation procedure. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a surgeon:

Qualifications

Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon who has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This certification ensures that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform surgical procedures safely and effectively.

Experience

Choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast implant removal and re - augmentation surgeries. Ask the surgeon about the number of similar procedures they have performed and request to see before - and - after photos of their patients.

Reputation

Check the surgeon's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or other medical professionals. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and achieve satisfactory results.

Communication and Comfort

During your consultation, pay attention to how the surgeon communicates with you. A good surgeon will listen to your concerns, answer your questions thoroughly, and provide you with realistic expectations about the procedure and the outcome. You should feel comfortable and confident in the surgeon's abilities and decision - making.

Risks and Complications

Like any