Breast Explantation Surgery: When and Why to Remove Implants

The decision to undergo surgery of breast explantation it's not easy, especially if at some point implants helped you feel more secure or comfortable with your body. However, there are medical, aesthetic or personal situations that may lead you to reconsider your initial choice.

La Dr. Jennifer Gaona, a specialist in plastic surgery with a focus on personalized breast procedures, accompanies you in this process, providing you with an honest and careful evaluation of your case. Understanding when and why to consider implant removal is the first step in making an informed decision.

What is breast explantation surgery?

Breast explantation surgery involves removing one or both implants from the breasts, with or without the tissue capsule that has formed around them. It can be done for medical, aesthetic or emotional reasons, and in some cases it can be combined with procedures such as a breast lift (mastopexy) to restore the natural shape of the bust.

Common Reasons for Removing Implants

Over time, it's natural for your priorities, lifestyle, or health to change. Some common reasons why patients choose to have an explant include:

• Medical Complications: capsular contracture, implant rupture, persistent pain, infections or displacement.
  
  
• Symptoms associated with Breast Implant Illness (BII): chronic fatigue, muscle pain, brain fog, or inflammation with no apparent cause.
  
  
• Aesthetic changes: dissatisfaction with the current size or shape, sagging or aging of the breast tissue.
  
  
• Personal reasons: changes in your body perception, lifestyle or preference for a more natural appearance.
  
  

Dr. Jennifer Gaona evaluates each of these factors with you to help you understand if explantation is the right option for you.

When is the right time to consider explanting?

There is no exact time frame for removing implants, but there are signs that may indicate that the time has come to do so:

• Persistent pain or discomfort in the breast area
  
  
• Visible changes in the shape or position of the implants
  
  
• Abnormal results in imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI.
  
  
• Systemic symptoms without a clear medical explanation.
  
  
• Personal decision to return to an implant-free appearance.
  
  

For any symptoms or concerns, Dr. Gaona offers you a complete and transparent evaluation to define the best time and the safest surgical approach.

What happens during explantation surgery?

Depending on your specific case, Dr. Gaona may recommend one of the following approaches:

• Simple explantation: The implant is removed without removing the capsule.
  
  
• Explantation with partial or total capsulectomy: The scar tissue surrounding the implant is also removed.
  
  
• Explantation with mastopexy: In addition to removing the implants, the breast tissue is repositioned and tightened to achieve a more harmonious and natural shape.
  
  

Each technique has precise indications. Dr. Gaona always prioritizes your safety, the preservation of healthy tissue and a balanced aesthetic result.

What results can you expect?

After the explantation, it's important to have realistic expectations: the shape and volume of your breasts will depend on the state of the breast tissue, the length of time the implants are used and whether it is combined with an additional procedure such as mastopexy.

Many patients report physical and emotional relief after the procedure, especially if they were dealing with symptoms or discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is recovery more difficult than breast augmentation?

Recovery is generally faster, although it depends on the type of procedure and your general health. In our clinic we will indicate an adequate recovery process

Will the skin look saggy after removing the implants?

There may be some sagging, especially if the implants were large. In these cases, mastopexy may be considered to improve the contour.

Can I get implants again in the future?
Yes, although you'll have to wait for your body to fully recover. Dr. Gaona can guide you if you want a new procedure in the future.

Does explantation completely eliminate symptoms of BII?
Some patients experience improvement after removing the implants, but results may vary. A full medical evaluation is needed to set realistic expectations.

Conclusion: Prioritize your well-being, listen to your body

Removing your breast implants is a deeply personal decision that deserves professional support, empathy and experience. Dr. Jennifer Gaona is committed to your overall health and guides you every step of the way, from initial evaluation to final recovery.

If you're considering explantation surgery, schedule a personalized consultation and receive the honest and expert guidance you need to make the best decision for you.