(949) 755-0575 1401 Avocado Avenue, Suite 301
Newport Beach, CA 92660

Breast Implant Removal in Newport Beach, CA

Expertise in Breast Enhancement

Breast Implant Removal

Sometimes, the reason to move on from something is because the season for it is over. You have to take stock of where you are in life and what you need for the future. The decision to undergo breast implant removal is usually made for one of two reasons: necessity or preference. While some breast revision procedures are necessary because of complications following your initial breast augmentation surgery, other patients elect to adjust the implant size along with the breast shape or have it removed entirely. Whether your reason for seeking breast implant removal, Dr. Keyian Z. Paydar can help you attain your desired results.

What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Also called explant surgery, breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to remove silicone or saline implants. The procedure is typically performed in one of three ways: breast implant removal only, with capsulectomy, or en bloc capsulectomy.

What Are The Benefits of Breast Implant Removal?

Reduced Physical Discomfort

Removing your breast implants can eliminate pain and discomfort from capsular contracture, breast implant illness, and too-large implants.

Aesthetic Reasons

If you experience implant displacement, that means your breast implants have become incorrectly situated on your chest. Breast implant displacement or malposition can only be fixed with implant revision surgery.

Easier Mammograms

Depending on the type of breast implant you have and where they are placed (above or below the chest muscle), implants can sometimes make it challenging to get a clear picture of your breast tissue during a mammogram. Removing the implants can make the process easier and allow the results to be read.

Better Self-Image

Your idea of your ideal figure may change over time, as can your opinion about your own body or breast, and removing your implants may be a part of improving your confidence in your appearance.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal in Newport Beach?

Anyone with breast augmentation who is unhappy with the look or feel of their implants is a candidate for breast implant removal. The best candidates for breast implant removal surgery include women who:
  • Are in good mental and physical health
  • Want to improve the appearance of their breasts
  • Are experiencing pain or discomfort
  • Have experienced a leak or implant rupture
  • Require implant replacement
Candidates for breast implant removal should also have realistic expectations for their results.
Dr. Paydar

Excellence & Artistry

Dr. Keyian Paydar is an award winning clinical professor and board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He performs a full spectrum of aesthetic plastic surgery procedures, including breast enhancement, tummy tucks, and liposuction, in addition to face procedures like facelifts, brow lifts, fat injection, eyelid surgery, and rhinoplasty.

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Paydar Plastic Surgery lobby in Newport Beach, CA

Common Reasons to Have Breast Implant Removal Surgery

There are several reasons women choose to undergo breast implant removal, and they typically fall under two categories: medical and personal preference.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is the most common complication after breast augmentation surgery, affecting nearly one in six patients. While this may seem like a high number, the reality is that many women have a lesser degree of capsular contracture that doesn’t cause noticeable side effects. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue capsule around the implant tightens, constricting the implant. The result is pain, hardness of the breasts, and changes to the shape of the breasts.

The cause of capsular contracture is unknown and it could be related to a low lying infection or inflammation around the implant but the only treatment option is removing the implant along with the firm capsule surrounding it.

Implant Failure

Breast implant failure is another way to describe your breast implant leaking or rupturing. If you have saline implants, you’ll notice a leak or rupture immediately, as your breast will deflate. Silicone implant ruptures are more difficult to discover because of the highly cohesive gel that fills the implant. If you experience a leak or rupture of your silicone implant, it may go unnoticed because the gel typically stays within the breast pocket. Any leak or rupture of either type of implant requires removal.

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Breast implant illness is not an official medical diagnosis but rather a term to describe a group of symptoms that affect patients with breast implants. More research is needed to discover the cause of BII, but experts believe it may be due to an inflammatory or autoimmune response to breast implants. BII doesn’t necessarily appear immediately after breast augmentation; in fact, it may take years to develop. Symptoms of breast implant illness include:

  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Chronic pain
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Skin rashes or hair loss
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Brain fog, trouble concentrating, or memory problems
  • Anxiety and depression

Like capsular contracture, the only way to alleviate BII symptoms is by removing your breast implants with or without the capsule surrounding them.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that develops around breast implants, predominately the textured ones. It originates in the fluid or scar tissue around the implant, not the breast tissue itself. Symptoms include persistent swelling, pain, or changes in breast shape. Diagnosis typically involves imaging and fluid or tissue sampling, with treatment usually requiring surgery to remove the implant and surrounding tissue. The cause is still under investigation, but textured implants have been predominantly linked to BIA-ALCL cases.

Implant Displacement

Breast implant displacement occurs when your implants move out of their intended position on your chest. There are three common types of implant displacement, including:

Bottoming out: when one or both implants slide below the breast crease due to being too heavy or because the supporting ligaments have stretched.

Lateral displacement: where the implants shift to the outside of your chest into the armpit, too far away from the midline, where cleavage is diminished as a result.

Symmastia: which occurs when the skin and muscle separating the implants in the middle of the chest detach, and the implants create a uniboob in the center of your chest.

Age of the Implants

While breast implants can last for up to 20 years, most are designed to be removed or replaced every ten years.

Changes to Your Lifestyle

Once you’ve gotten breast augmentation, there may come a time when changes to your life or personal aesthetic may move you to undergo implant removal. Some women may opt to get larger breasts, while others may choose smaller breasts or have the implants removed altogether. Maybe you desire a more natural look, or your larger breasts are getting in the way of physical activities you enjoy. Your favorite clothing may not fit well. Even weight fluctuations and the aging process may influence your decision to undergo explant surgery.

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How Is Breast Implant Removal Performed?

Breast implant removal can be performed in an outpatient setting, and it involves general anesthesia. To help reduce any additional scarring, Dr. Paydar will use the same incisions used for your initial breast augmentation. When performing breast implant removal, Dr. Paydar uses three different techniques: breast implant removal only, en bloc capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy. The method used depends on the patient’s individual needs, desires, and safety.

Breast Implant Removal

This technique is used if you decide to remove your breast implant for aesthetic reasons and not because of complications. If you choose to replace your implant, the new implant is placed in the existing breast pocket. Even if you are not replacing the implant, it is not necessary for the tissue capsule to be removed along with the implant. There is a high likelihood that the breast tissue may need extra treatment, such as a breast lift or mastopexy, due to the aging process.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

En bloc is a French term meaning “all together” or “as a whole.” During an en bloc capsulectomy, Dr. Paydar removes the capsule and the breast implant in one piece without opening the capsule. The en bloc technique is used in cases where a silicone implant has ruptured, and the surgeon wants to keep the leaking gel from seeping into the surrounding breast tissue or when a patient requires breast implant removal due to BIA-ALCL. En bloc capsulectomy is not necessary for implant removals for other reasons. En bloc capsulectomy uses an inframammary incision (an incision in the crease along the underside of your breast), often the same one that was used in your original augmentation, if possible. Dr. Paydar then carefully separates the capsule containing the implant from the surrounding breast tissue and chest muscle, removing it in one piece.

Total Capsulectomy

A total capsulectomy also uses your original incisions, if possible. An incision is made in the capsule, and the breast implant is removed. Once the implant is removed, the capsule is dissected and removed in one or multiple pieces. A total capsulectomy is used in cases of capsular contracture because the entire capsule must be removed before replacing the implant. Dr. Paydar may also choose this method over an en bloc procedure when a portion of the capsule has adhered to the rib cage or chest muscles. A partial capsulectomy is performed when the scar tissue needs to be left in place for safety or support. The chest muscle is then sutured down to its anatomical position.

Once the implants and capsules are completely removed, Dr. Paydar will assess the appearance of the breasts and make any aesthetic changes to ensure they look as healthy and natural as possible. If the breast tissue had a sagging appearance prior to the operation, then a breast lift will be performed if suggested during the preoperative consultation. The incision will be closed with sutures. Rarely will a drain be necessary, and the entire area will be protected with bandages. You’ll be taken to a recovery room, where you’ll be monitored until you’ve fully awoken from anesthesia.

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What To Expect From Your Breast Implant Removal Recovery

You will experience soreness and discomfort for a few days after your breast implant removal, especially if the capsule was removed. Pain levels vary according to the type of implant removal, whether the implant was replaced, and whether muscle repair was performed. Drains are usually unnecessary, as Dr. Paydar uses quilting sutures to sew down the implant pocket.

Following your surgery, you will be wrapped in bandages and compression garments similar to those after your initial breast augmentation procedure. While all patients heal at their own pace, you should expect to take a week off work to recover. Any pain or discomfort can be remedied with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or pain medications or those prescribed by Dr. Paydar. For a more comfortable and speedier recovery, try to get as much rest as possible for the first few weeks, as too much activity can cause inflammation, pain, and prolonged recovery time. You will need to avoid any type of chest exercises as well until you are cleared by Dr. Paydar.

The duration of your recovery will depend on the extent of your surgery. If you had an en bloc or total capsulectomy and new implants were placed, your recovery time and expectations will be similar to your original augmentation surgery. If there are implant malposition issues, Dr. Paydar may have to perform a capsulorrhaphy or create an internal bra using mesh or human tissue. During your consultation, Dr. Paydar will discuss what you should expect regarding your recovery.

Dr. Paydar has now added Elixir MD™ to his patients’ surgical protocol to lessen the risk of infection and speed recovery. Elixir MD™ uses light at varying wavelengths to penetrate the skin at specific depths and activate distinct healing mechanisms. Prior to surgery, Dr. Paydar uses the Elixir MD™ Detox™ Treatment to reduce bacteria in the patient’s body, reducing the risk of infection. After surgery, he uses one of the other Elixir MD™ light treatments to help minimize bruising and swelling and accelerate healing for a more rapid recovery.

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in Newport Beach, CA?

The estimated average cost of breast implant removal can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the surgery itself and additional charges such as anesthesiologist fees and prescription medications. The cost of your breast implant removal will also be affected by whether you decide to replace your implant, undergo a breast lift, or require more in-depth repair of the breast area due to implant malpositioning. During your consultation at Paydar Plastic Surgery, you will sit down with a member of our financial team to receive a detailed cost estimate.

Why Choose Dr. Paydar for Breast Implant Removal?

Dr. Keyian Paydar is an award-winning clinical professor at UC Irvine and a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in complicated and complex breast reconstruction, revision, and cosmetic breast procedures. His expertise and skill in breast surgery are second to none, so you’re sure to be thrilled with the results of your breast implant removal. Dr. Paydar is a leading plastic surgeon in the Newport Beach community who understands the emotional and physical toll of breast implants that need revision. During your one-on-one consultation, Dr. Paydar will evaluate your medical history, your implant complications or reasons for your dissatisfaction, and your goals so that he can establish the best course of action to allow you to reach your desired results.

Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation in Newport Beach

To learn more about Newport Beach breast implant removal surgery with Dr. Paydar, schedule your personalized consultation at Paydar Plastic Surgery by contacting our office by phone at (949)755-0575 or completing the online contact form. We will work closely with you to schedule a time that allows you to ask questions and fully understand the procedure from start to finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal

Can I get a breast lift at the same time as en bloc implant removal?

Yes. While you may experience some skin laxity, sagging breast tissue, or ptosis prior to your en bloc breast implant removal, you can choose to include an immediate breast lift with your implant removal or schedule the procedure later to remedy this situation.

My breast is almost all implant. What will my breast look like after implant removal?

The appearance of your breast after implant removal depends on the laxity of your skin, remaining breast tissue, and your breast’s position relative to your breast crease. You could have a smaller, more natural-looking breast after implant removal or a sagging one if your skin lacks elasticity and your breast droops below the breast crease. However, Dr. Paydar’s expertise in breast procedures will ensure that your end result is beautiful, shapely, well-positioned breasts.

Do you perform muscle repair at the same time as breast implant removal?

Muscle repair is typically unnecessary if you are replacing your implant after removal. However, if you decide to remove the implant and capsule altogether (without replacing the implant), the muscle should be repaired 100% of the time. When you remove a breast implant that was placed under the muscle (called submuscular placement), the muscle flap is no longer attached to the chest wall. This allows the flap to retract, similar to the movement of a window shade, when you engage your chest muscles. The muscle contraction causes a visible line under your skin, known as animation deformity. When Dr. Paydar permanently removes an implant, he then attaches the muscle to the chest wall to its normal anatomical position to avoid animation deformity. If you remove implants that have been placed in a pocket created under the muscle, there is now an empty breast pocket. An empty pocket can cause fluid buildup or seroma, which requires drainage. Dr. Paydar prevents this by stitching the empty pocket closed at the same time that he re-attaches the muscle to the chest wall.

How do I know if en bloc capsulectomy is right for me?

Your capsulectomy choices will be discussed during your consultation, but in most cases, en bloc capsulectomy is not required for successful breast implant removal. Some patients still get a total capsulectomy (usually for capsular contracture), while for others with no health symptoms and small breasts, partial capsulectomy is all that is needed.

How will my breasts look after implant removal?

Several factors will contribute to your breasts’ appearance after removing your implants, including how long you’ve had the implants, how big the implants were, and your age. In some cases, the breasts will regain their initial size and shape. For some women, explant surgery might leave their breasts sagging and deflated due to the impact of aging and the skin stretching caused by the implants. If this is a concern for you and it is preventing you from pursuing a breast implant removal procedure, Dr. Paydar can recommend ways to give your breasts a better shape, such as including a breast lift with your implant removal procedure or fat transfer to add subtle volume where needed.

Can I get my breast implants removed without replacing them?

Yes. After removing your implants, Dr. Paydar can lift and adjust your breast tissue to recreate your natural, un-augmented breast appearance. In some cases, fat transfer will be required to fill the hollow upper pole of breasts.

Can I get a breast lift at the same time as a breast implant removal?

While it is possible and often recommended to add a breast lift to your implant removal procedure, Dr. Paydar will first need to evaluate how much of a lift you need, the location of your incisions from augmentation surgery, and how achieving your desired changes might cause complications. If Dr. Paydar suspects there might be any risks or if there is minimal to no sagging of breasts or ptosis, he may recommend having each procedure performed separately rather than in one surgery.

How long does breast implant removal surgery take?

Breast implant removal procedures generally require around one to three hours, depending on if there is a leak, rupture, or excessive surrounding scar tissue. Following the surgical procedure, you’ll stay in a comfortable recovery room until your anesthesia wears off and you are medically stable. Barring complications or adverse effects from anesthesia, patients can usually return home with a close friend or family member.

Do you offer en bloc removal for patients with Breast Implant Illness?

Yes. En bloc capsulectomy is an option as long as it’s safe for the patient.

Do you reuse my old breast implants?

No, we do not reuse your old implants. Most cases of breast revision involve changing or removing implants due to complications or the age of the implant, neither of which allows them to be reused. In rare cases, we may reuse the implant if the original breast augmentation was only a few months earlier.

How long should I wait to get breast implant removal surgery?

In most cases after breast augmentation, Dr. Paydar recommends waiting at least a year before pursuing a breast implant removal procedure to allow plenty of time for the surgical area to heal completely and the implants to settle into place on your chest and for you to form a true opinion about your new look.

How long after breast implant removal surgery can I get fat transfer to my breasts?

If you want fuller, rounder breasts without implants, Dr. Paydar can perform a fat transfer. During a fat transfer to the breasts, Dr. Paydar harvests excess fat from a secondary location on the body, typically the thighs, belly, or hips. You can undergo fat transfer to your breasts either at the time of the implant removal or, otherwise, approximately three to six months after your breast implant removal procedure. Waiting this amount of time will allow your breast tissue and muscles to heal and settle back into a natural position after your breast explant surgery.

When will I see the results of my breast implant removal surgery?

You’ll see an immediate reduction in your breast size after your breast implant removal surgery. However, the entire healing process can take up to one year.

Will insurance pay for breast implant removal?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as each insurance company will first look at the original reason you received implants and your reasons for wanting an explant procedure. If implant removal is medically necessary due to complications such as breast implant illness or capsular contracture, your insurance company may agree to cover the removal procedure. However, if you’re solely having your breast implants removed for aesthetic reasons, your insurance provider will not cover it. It is always a good idea to speak with your plastic surgeon first and then discuss your options with your insurance provider.

Will my breasts go back to normal after breast implant removal?

Most patients should not expect their breasts to return to their pre-augmentation shape or appearance after implant removal. The implants’ weight can stretch your skin, causing it to sag and not snap back into place. Fortunately, a board-certified breast explant surgeon like Dr. Paydar can ensure a beautiful, natural breast appearance. When conducting your explant surgery, Dr. Paydar will consider your unique circumstances, including the quality of your breasts’ tissue, skin elasticity, and personal preferences.

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