Breast
Breast Implant Removal San Francisco
Breast implant removal is because some women just don’t want breast implants anymore, whether for health, personal, or other reasons. This could be due to implants which are too large, capsules which have formed around the implants, implants which have ruptured, or because you just want to get back to a less augmented look.
There are many options to restore the appearance of the breast based on your goals. Once the implants are removed, fat can be transferred to the breast to give a little more volume, a lift may be necessary to reposition and reshape the breast tissue.
Meet Dr. David Sieber
Dr. Sieber is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who received his medical degree from Loyola University-Stritch School of Medicine and completed a five-year residency in general surgery at Loyola University Medical Center.
Dr. Sieber went on to become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has done thousands of Cosmetic and Reconstructive surgeries over the last 6 years of practice.
What is Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of previously implanted breast implants. Breast implants are typically placed in the breasts for cosmetic reasons, to enhance breast size, shape, or symmetry. However, over time, some women may experience complications with their breast implants or decide that they no longer wish to have them.
Breast implant removal may be performed for a variety of reasons, including implant rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition, discomfort or pain, or simply a desire to return to a natural breast appearance.
Breast Implant Removal Technique
Dr. Sieber is typically able to use your previous incisions to remove your old implants. If you are having a breast lift or an additional procedure like liposuction, Dr. Sieber will make marks for that part of the procedure on you as well in the preoperative area. After under anesthesia, your old incisions will be opened and your implants are removed.
Dr. Sieber may need to insert a small drain to help remove any fluid which builds up after the surgery and to prevent any accumulation of fluid in your breast pocket.
Some patients desire to have the capsules around the implants removed at the same time. Dr. Sieber is able to perform total capsulectomies during the implant removal process.
Breast Implant Removal Before and After
Preparing for Implant Removal Surgery
Before breast implant removal, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions to help you prepare. You may need to:
- Adjust current medications or start new ones.
- Avoid medicines that increase bleeding risks, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or certain herbal supplements.
- Stop smoking or using tobacco products.
Usually, breast implant removal is an outpatient surgery, meaning you can leave the same day. Before the operation, you will need to arrange transportation to return home.
Implant Removal Surgery Recovery
Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and will slowly resolve over the first 2-3 weeks. If you required drains, they typically remain in place for 3-7 days. They will be removed in the office once the output has dropped below an acceptable range.
Most patients take 3 to 5 days off from work to recover after surgery.
After surgery, you will need to refrain from any rigorous activity for the first 2 weeks, and avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs. After that point, you may gradually increase your activity level.
Listen to your body and if it feels like you are overdoing it, then scale your activity back some.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my breasts go back to the same size they were prior to my breast augmentation?
This depends on a number of factors, mostly the size of the implants you had as well as how long you had them. Larger implants which have been in for a long time are more likely to leave you with excess skin which may require a lift to restore a better breast shape.
Will removing my capsules help with systemic symptoms I’ve been experiencing?
Although Dr. Sieber is not able to ensure relief from any symptoms, many of his patients have noticed an improvement immediately after surgery.
*Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. Editorial content, before and after images, and patient testimonials do not constitute a guarantee of specific results.
