Breast Implant Removal

Is Natural-Looking Breast Implant Removal Right for You?

Removing a breast implant can be a personal choice, a lifestyle decision, or it may be necessary for health reasons due to a rupture or other maintenance issues.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 48,000 women had a breast implant removal procedure in 2018. Breaking it down, 29,236 were breast augmentation patients and 19,149 were reconstructive patients.

Breast Implant Removal Boston

A breast implant removal procedure concerns the withdrawal of breast implants and any scar tissue that has formed around them. General anesthesia or intravenous sedation can be administered for your comfort. During a breast implant removal Boston plastic surgeon Dr. Eliopoulos will place an incision along the lower fold of your breast or around or below the areola and remove the capsules and implants. Finally, she will close the incisions using sutures, clips or skin adhesives.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are many reasons why a woman decides to have her breast implants removed. It could be a practical or health reason such as capsular contracture or a rupture. It may simply be a lifestyle change in that she no longer wishes to keep her existing breast implants. Here are some of the main reasons why a woman opts to have breast implant removal in Chelmsford.

  • Capsular contracture: With capsular contracture, the normal “shell” or “capsule” that the body forms around the implant become tight making it feel firmer, causing discomfort or distorts its shape. Depending on several factors, options may be to remove the implant along with capsular contracture, with or without placement of a new implant
  • Deflation: Saline and silicone implants are extremely durable, especially the most recent generation of implants, but they still have a risk of rupture or deflation over time. If this occurs, the deflated or ruptured implant can be removed with or without replacement.
  • Lifestyle: Some women find that over the years their goals and desires change and they prefer a different breast size to fit their particular lifestyle. For some women, having large, heavy breasts affects the quality of their life, including when working out in the gym or on a hike.
  • Moving out of position: An implant may move out of position into a higher or lower place or even inwards or outwards.
  • Rippling: A rippling effect happens when the liquid inside the implant starts to move around inside the implant, which can occur with either saline or silicone implants.
  • Rupture or leakage: A leak or rupture is the main reason for breast implant removal. A saline implant can deflate requiring a need for removal. With a silicone gel implant, it is more difficult to notice a difference because the leakage is smaller. Gel leaks tend to go into the pocket or protective capsule around the implant.
  • What to Expect

    Dr. Dina Eliopoulos has nearly 2 decades of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon, with a reputation for dedication, surgical excellence, and professionalism. The purpose of her consultation is not to “convince you” to undergo a procedure, but to learn about your goals and educate you on your surgical options.

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    Massachusetts Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Dina Eliopoulos

    BIA ALCL: Concerns over Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

    I want to take a moment to address the recent development of certain types of breast implants that may be associated with cancer. In fact, BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer but rather a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system.

    If you have, or had, textured implants or textured implant expanders, you may be at risk of developing BIA ALCL, which involves the growth of lymphoma cells in or around a breast implant scar capsule. There can be fluid around the implant and thickness of the scar capsule. It's important to recognize the symptoms of BIA ALCL, which can mirror other conditions such as capsular contracture. You may have to get your breast or implant examined for fluid and/or tissue concerns. Here are some of the potential signs:

    • Enlargement of the thickness of the scar capsule around your implant
    • Growth of a lump in or around your breast or under your armpit
    • Modification in the shape of your breast or implant
    • Sensation in your breast changes, especially in firmness
    • There is redness or lesion on your skin on or near your breast
    • The size of your breast begins to grow
    • Unusual pain in or around your breast
    • You notice breast asymmetry
    • Your lymph nodes become swollen

    I am committed to the safety of my patients and can discuss any concerns over Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and whether to remove or replace your implant.

    WHAT TO EXPECT IN A CONSULTATION

    Dr. Dina Eliopoulos is known for her almost two decades of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon as well as her dedication to her patients. During your consultation, Boston breast implant removal patients will have a chance to ask questions and receive important information about breast implant removal. She will provide information so, together, you can make the best decision for you. Dr. Eliopoulos uses her surgical excellence and experience to make your procedure a successful one. She cares about her patients and creates a safe and comfortable environment.

    Woman Bust After Breast Augmentation

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Am I Candidate for a Breast Implant Removal?

    Boston breast implant removal candidates are typically in good physical health with a stable weight. You will need removal if you have leakage or rupture in your breast implants or if capsular contracture has become an issue. Or you no longer desire your current breast implants and ready for a lifestyle change. 

    What are the risks of Breast Implant Removal?

    When it comes to breast implant removal surgery, there are ways to minimize risks. It is important that you are not feeling ill or taking any medications, especially with blood-thinning effects. As with any surgery, there are possible complications such as a bad reaction to anesthesia, asymmetry, bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, fat necrosis, hematoma, infection, poor healing of incisions, scar tissue, seroma, and skin discoloration, loss or scarring. There could also be numbness in nipple or areola sensation or in skin sensation. Dr. Eliopoulos takes every precaution during surgery and makes safety her number #1 priority.

    Will there be a Scar?

    Yes, you will have a scar but it will be minimal and inconspicuous after it heals and fades over time.

    What are the results of Breast Implant Removal?

    You can expect your breast implant removal to be permanent once your breasts regain their shape, which can take up to three weeks. They may appear deflated during that time.

    Learn More About Your Options for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

    For more information about breast implant removal, please contact our Chelmsford plastic surgery center today. Our caring team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you make the best possible decision about your particular situation.

    Schedule your consultation with Dr. Dina Eliopoulos today

    (978) 275-9440

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