Implant Removal and Exchange: Options and What to Expect

Someone with implants may choose to remove them, replace them or change them for another type. The right option depends on your reasons, your tissue and your goals.

Removal only (explant)

Implants are taken out without replacement. The capsule may be left, partly removed or removed whole. Reasons include symptoms, complications, ageing implants or personal preference.

Exchange

Old implants are replaced with new ones, perhaps of a different size, type or position. Exchange may be combined with capsule surgery or a lift.

Removal with a lift

After removal, the breast skin may be loose, especially if the implants were large or have been in for years. A lift may be considered at the same time or later.

Removal with fat transfer

Some people choose fat transfer to restore some volume after implant removal. It is not suitable for everyone and may need more than one session.

How the breast may look afterwards

The shape after removal depends on your original breast, how long implants were in, tissue changes and skin quality. Expect possible loss of volume, laxity or contour irregularity. A surgeon can discuss likely outcomes, though they cannot be guaranteed.

Recovery

Removal is often shorter than the original surgery, but recovery depends on whether capsule surgery or a lift is done. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on garments, activity and wound care.

Decide what happens to the capsule

A capsule is scar tissue that normally forms around an implant. Whether it is left, released or removed depends on findings such as contracture, rupture, fluid, abnormal tissue and how safely it can be separated from the chest wall. Ask for the reason for the planned extent of surgery, not simply a label.

Think in stages when needed

If there is infection, uncertain tissue health or a major change in size, the safest plan may separate removal, healing and reconstruction. A staged plan can feel disappointing, but it may give tissue time to settle and make the next decision more reliable.

Planning

• Ask about the likely look afterwards
• Discuss the capsule and why it is or is not removed
• Consider imaging and any need for pathology tests
• Think about breast screening in future

If you have symptoms you attribute to implants, see a doctor to assess other possible causes. See BIA-ALCL and implant illness.