If you have been considering breast implant removal surgery in San Francisco or have recently undergone this procedure, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects that may occur during your recovery. Fortunately, most after breast implant removal side effects are normal.
However, while breast implant removal is generally safe and well-tolerated, rare patients may experience certain complications as their bodies adjust to the changes, and it’s important to know about these as well.
In this blog post, we will explore the common side effects after breast implant removal and discuss potential complications that may arise during the recovery process. We understand that this can be a concerning time, and we want to provide you with the most useful information so that you can navigate it with confidence.
Common Side Effects After Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Here’s what to expect in terms of sensations, symptoms, and breast appearance during your recovery from breast implant removal surgery. While the symptoms may be similar to those you experienced after your breast augmentation surgery, there are some unique differences to note.
1. Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and bruising are typical side effects after breast implant removal saline and silicone patients may experience. Your body’s natural response to the procedure may lead to temporary inflammation and discoloration around the surgical site. Applying cold compresses (with your surgeon’s okay) and following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions can help minimize these effects.
2. Discomfort and Pain
Some level of discomfort and pain can be expected after getting your breast implants removed. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage this. Most patients find that the discomfort improves significantly within a few days.
3. Changes in Breast Sensation
Altering the breast tissue during surgery can lead to changes in breast sensation. Some patients may experience increased or decreased sensitivity in the nipples or overall breast area. These changes are often temporary and tend to improve over time.
4. Scarring
As with any surgical procedure, breast implant removal will leave scar tissue and scars. This is the case with even the best plastic surgeon removing your breast implants.
Still, your surgeon will strategically place incisions to minimize their visibility. Over time, the scars should fade and become less noticeable.
5. Emotional Effects
Undergoing breast implant removal can have emotional effects, especially if you’ve had your breast implants for an extended period. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions during the recovery process. Seeking support from loved ones and joining online communities of individuals who have gone through similar experiences can be beneficial.
How Breast Implant Removal Affects the Body and Recovery
During breast implant removal, the surgical procedure involves carefully removing the implants removed while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible and addressing any surrounding scar tissue or existing capsular contracture that may be contributing to discomfort or prior implant complications.
Some patients, especially those with older saline implants or textured breast implants, choose explant surgery due to concerns about breast implant illness or breast implant illness bii, which may be associated with symptoms such as joint pain or links to a connective tissue disease.
In certain cases, implant rupture or painful scar tissue can also influence the decision, and many plastic surgeons recommend this type of breast surgery as an outpatient procedure when appropriate. After surgery, wearing a compression garment can help reduce swelling, manage excess fluid, and support the chest as the healing process begins.
As the body adjusts, some patients opt for additional procedures like fat grafting or fat transfer to restore volume, address excess skin, or refine breast size, while others consider implant replacement or choosing new implants later on—though not everyone desires new implants after explant surgery.
Recovery timelines vary as tissues heal, sensation gradually returns as nerves regenerate, and activity restrictions such as avoiding heavy lifting help prevent worsening pain or complications.
For many individuals, there are a few benefits beyond physical healing, including peace of mind after implants removed and relief from symptoms they associated with breast implant illness or long-term capsular contracture, especially when saline implants had been in place for many years.
Side Effects of Anesthesia After Breast Implant Removal
After any surgery that requires general anesthesia, including breast augmentation, breast lift surgery, and breast implant removal surgery, you may experience certain side effects that are caused by the anesthesia itself. These side effects usually include drowsiness, slight nausea, itchiness, irritability, a sore throat, dry mouth, or blurred vision. These effects should clear up within a day or two.
What Complications Can Occur After Breast Implant Removal?
While complications are rare, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that may arise during the recovery period. Some potential complications include:
1. Hematoma
A hematoma is a collection of blood outside the blood vessels, which can lead to swelling and discomfort. If you notice increased pain and swelling in an isolated spot, contact your surgeon.
2. Infection
Infections can occur at the surgical site, leading to redness, warmth, and drainage from the incision area. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention promptly.
3. Seroma
A seroma is a buildup of fluid around the surgical site, causing swelling and discomfort. Your surgeon may need to drain the fluid to alleviate the symptoms.
4. Capsular Contracture
In some cases, the scar tissue around the previous implant site may tighten and contract, leading to pain and changes in breast shape. Additional treatment may be necessary to address this complication.
5. Delayed Wound Healing
Some patients may experience delayed wound healing, which could prolong the recovery process. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s wound care instructions diligently to help avoid this.
When to Seek Help
If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, signs of infection, or any other concerning symptoms during your breast implant removal recovery, do not hesitate to contact your surgeon. Timely communication with your healthcare provider can help identify and address potential complications early on, which will ensure a smoother recovery.
FAQs: After Breast Implant Removal Side Effects
I’ve had my breast implants for 20 years. Should I have them removed?
Most plastic surgeons recommend having breast implants removed after 15 years or more. Everyone is different, of course, so always speak with a board certified plastic surgeon to know for sure if implant removal is right for you.
Can you get breast implants after explant surgery?
In many cases, patients will be eligible to get new breast implants after their breast implant removal surgery. However, in some situations, it may be better to simply remove breast implants and not get new ones (if someone were to be diagnosed with breast cancer, breast implant illness, or similar, for example). Some patients may also opt for a breast lift instead.
How painful is breast explant surgery?
Soreness and slight pain is normal for around a week after breast implant removal surgery. However, during the procedure itself, you will not feel pain as anesthesia will be used.
Are there side effects flat after breast implant removal?
Side effects flat after breast implant removal can occur due to skin laxity and volume loss after implants are removed. This appearance may improve as tissues heal. Some patients explore additional procedures for shape support.
Are mold after breast implant removal side effects real?
Mold after breast implant removal side effects are often discussed online but are not medically common. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a physician. Individual recovery experiences vary.
What illness after breast implant removal side effects should I expect?
Illness after breast implant removal side effects may include temporary fatigue or inflammation during recovery. Many patients report symptom improvement over time. Ongoing symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Call and Schedule a Consultation Appointment
At Sieber Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of a safe and comfortable recovery after breast implant removal surgery. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and provide personalized care to address any concerns you may have.
At your initial consultation appointment, you and Dr. Sieber will look at breast implant removal before and after photos to help you decide what approach to surgery you want to take. You will also discuss things like cost, eligibility for surgery, and possible additional surgeries.
We are dedicated to helping you feel better about yourself and achieve your desired results. Contact us today to take the first step toward a more confident and healthier you.