Understanding Explant Surgery

Like the decision to have breast implants placed, implant removal is a personal choice. It is important to remember that breast implants are not lifelong devices, and it is recommended to exchange or remove them approximately every 10-15 years.

Breast implant removal, often referred to as explant surgery, involves the removal of the breast implant and the capsule, which is the scar tissue that forms after the placement of a breast implant. This is sometimes referred to as total or capsulectomy. During this procedure, Dr. Alex Viezel-Mathieu may also remove silicone material from the implant pocket and the breast capsule.

Following implant removal and capsulectomy, the breast is restored to its natural shape and volume. Often, women decide to undergo a mastopexy, or breast lift, at the time of explant surgery, in order achieve a more youthful shape and aesthetic appearance. 

Another option available to some patients involves transferring fat from one area of the body (frequently the abdomen or hips) to the breast, in order to replace some of the volume provided by the implant.  During this procedure, liposuction of a targeted area is performed. The fat is then purified and injected into the breasts. This procedure has the advantage of not only replacing some of the volume of the removed implant but can also improve the contour of the donor site where the fat is harvested.