Introduction
Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Over time, some patients may choose to remove their implants due to medical reasons, changes in lifestyle, or personal preference. This procedure is called explantation, or breast implant removal surgery.
In some cases, removal is performed alone, while in others it’s combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) to restore a natural breast shape.
This guide explains why patients choose explantation, the techniques used, what recovery involves, and the results you can expect.
Why Patients Choose Breast Implant Removal?
Common reasons include:
- Implant rupture or deflation
- Capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue around the implant), causing distortion or discomfort
- Other Implant-related complications such as malposition or asymmetry
- Desire for a smaller, more natural breast size at different stage of life
- Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms
- Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)
- Changes in lifestyle, activity level, or body image goals
Types of Explantation Procedures
- Simple Implant Removal
- The implant is removed without altering the surrounding capsule (scar tissue).
- Suitable when the capsule is thin, soft, and healthy.
- Explantation with Capsulectomy
- Removal of part (partial capsulectomy) or all (total capsulectomy) of the capsule tissue along with the implant.
- May be recommended for capsular contracture or other implant-related complications.
- En Bloc Capsulectomy
- Implant and capsule are removed together in one piece.
- Typically reserved for cases involving suspected implant rupture, significant capsular contracture, or certain medical concerns (e.g. BIA-ALCL).
- Explantation with Mastopexy (Breast Lift)
- Performed when implant removal would leave the breast with significant sagging.
- Lifts and reshapes the breast for a more youthful, natural appearance.
- Explantation with Fat Grafting (Auto-augmentation)
- Replacing volume with own fat cells, transferred from another part of the body into the breasts
- Often needs multiple stages to achieve the volume desired
Who Is a Good Candidate for Explantation?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- Have implant-related complications or concerns
- Want to return to your natural breast size and shape
- Are experiencing symptoms you believe may be linked to your implants
- Have realistic expectations about post-surgery breast appearance
- Are in good general health and a non-smoker
Benefits of Breast Implant Removal
- Relief from implant-related discomfort or complications
- No future implant replacement / revision surgeries required
- Natural breast contour restored (with or without lift)
- Potential improvement (though debated) in symptoms associated with BII
How to Prepare for Surgery
- Choose an Experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Look for a surgeon with FRACS (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery) and proven experience in explantation and breast reconstruction. - Pre-Surgery Planning
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and whether a breast lift is recommended
- Stop smoking and avoid certain medications before surgery
- Arrange support for your initial recovery period
What to Expect During Recovery
- Swelling and bruising: Common in the first 1–2 weeks
- Use of drains: Common for the first few days, up to a week post-op
- Supportive bra: Worn for 4–6 weeks to aid healing and support new breast shape
- Discomfort: Usually mild to moderate, managed with oral pain relief
- Return to work: Light duties in 1–2 weeks, more strenuous activity after 4–6 weeks
- Final results: Usually visible after 2–3 months once swelling settles
Risks and Safety Considerations
While explantation is generally safe, possible risks include:
- Definite changes in breast shape or size
- Loose skin or sagging (particularly if implants were sizeable) if not combined with a lift
- Scarring
- Seroma (fluid build-up)
- Temporary changes in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry
Your surgeon will discuss strategies to minimise these risks and optimise your results.
How Long Do Results Last?
Results from implant removal are permanent unless you choose to have new implants in the future. Natural ageing and weight changes will still affect the breasts over time.
Is Explantation Right for You?
Breast implant removal can be a positive step toward comfort, confidence, and peace of mind. Whether motivated by health, aesthetics, or lifestyle changes, a personalised consultation will help determine the best surgical plan for your needs.
About Dr Paul Cheng
I’m Dr Paul Cheng, FRACS, a Specialist Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon based on the Gold Coast and in Ballina, NSW. I offer breast implant removal with or without breast lift, tailoring each procedure to my patient’s health, goals, and desired outcomes.
If you’d like to discuss whether explantation is right for you, please book a consultation or follow me on Instagram @dr.paulcheng for more educational content.