Breast Implant Removal: What to Expect

Our plastic surgery team can walk you through all of the steps involved during the breast implant removal procedure. Breast implant removal is typically performed in less than 2 hours and requires general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. When at all possible, Dr. Aboolian will try to remove your implants through their original incisions. In some cases, breast implant removal will leave a longer scar.

Once Dr. Aboolian has made the appropriate incisions, he will begin by removing some of the scar tissue surrounding your implants. He will then carefully remove each implant. If you have saline implants, they may be deflated in advance to make the removal process easier.

At this point, Dr. Aboolian can either replace your implants or close up the incisions. If you do not want replacement implants, a subsequent cosmetic procedure such as a breast lift (mastopexy) may be recommended to minimize the risk of an undesirable cosmetic outcome.

Breast Implant Removal Results and Recovery

Your recovery will be relatively similar to that of your original breast augmentation. It is likely that you will experience some bruising, swelling and discomfort for several days. Dr. Aboolian will provide you with prescription medication to ease your pain. You will also need to wear a support bra for several days to help minimize swelling.

About a week after your procedure, a follow-up visit will be scheduled to remove your stitches and monitor the progression of your healing. At this point, you should be able to resume most normal routines, including work. More strenuous activities such as exercise or heavy lifting should be restricted for an additional 3-6 weeks.

It will take about two months for your breasts to heal and take their final shape. There is the risk of some scarring after your procedure. Dr. Aboolian will provide you specific instructions on how to minimize scars. For the first 4-8 weeks, your scars will appear raised and discolored. They will gradually fade and flatten over the course of 12-18 months.*

Interested in Breast Implant Removal in Beverly Hills?

If you’re interested in scar revision, plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Aboolian encourages you to set up a consultation today.