Over recent years, breast implant removal—also known as explantation—has become more common. Health concerns often drive this decision. Complications can arise even years after surgery, such as chest pain from capsular contracture or calcification, which hardens the breasts. Prompt removal provides essential relief.
Implants also carry a growing risk of rupture or leakage with time. Saline implants typically need replacement after about eight years, while silicone gel versions last 10 to 15 years.
Aesthetic issues play a role too. Severe capsular contracture (stage 4) can distort breast shape and cause pain, leading to stretched, unnatural contours. Post-removal, the breasts often retract naturally, restoring their original form.
This procedure is fully reversible—new implants can be placed later if desired. As Dr. Thierry Ktorza, a Paris-based plastic surgeon, explains: “The removal of breast implants is an intervention that raises many questions for patients wishing to remove them permanently. The results are excellent, which underlines the remarkable reversibility of breast augmentation with implants.”
Beyond health and aesthetics, concerns about cancer risk associated with implants prompt many requests for removal.
Prior to surgery, your surgeon conducts a thorough consultation. This ensures you're fully committed, discussing your reasons to confirm they're appropriate. You'll receive detailed information, including costs and informed consent forms, followed by a reflection period.
As a straightforward outpatient procedure, it's typically done in the morning with same-day discharge. Local or general anesthesia is used based on your preference. The surgeon accesses the implants via the original scar, completing the process in 30 to 45 minutes. If sagging (ptosis) is present, breast remodeling can be added. Notably, while explant requests rise, breast augmentation remains popular.
Recovery is painless and uncomplicated, with most patients resuming normal activities in one to two days—even work the next day. Sports can typically restart after two weeks.
Many worry about deflated or drooping breasts post-surgery. However, the fibrous capsule contracts, preventing emptiness or sagging. Instead, it helps the breasts lift and return to their pre-augmentation shape.
