Breast Implant Removal in Huntsville, AL

Many women choose to undergo breast augmentation surgery so that they can achieve larger, more voluminous breasts; however, there may come a time when a patient begins to feel unhappy with her breast implants after having undergone her breast augmentation. There are many reasons why a patient may want to remove her breast implants. Some women experience changes to their body that can cause discomfort or medical issues to arise due to their implants, while other women may feel that their implants no longer reflect who they are as a person. Additionally, after several years, breast implants often become old and worn out and need to be replaced with new implants.

Whatever your reasons may be, Dr. Knowling can provide you with physical and emotional relief by performing breast implant removal. Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure in which your implants are removed and/or replaced to produce a more natural-looking bust that is more in line with your aesthetic goals.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?

Patients interested in breast implant removal should be in good health and have realistic expectations for what the procedure can achieve. Dr. Knowling will also ask that you stop the use of cigarettes and other tobacco or nicotine products for at least two weeks before and after your surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Knowling will review your medical history, examine the condition of your breasts, and discuss your aesthetic goals with you. You may benefit from breast implant removal if you are experiencing one or more of the following concerns:

• Capsular contracture
• Implant rupture
• Breast implant illness
• “Double bubble”
• Unsatisfying results from a previous surgery
• Needing to replace old implants

What Does My Breast Implant Removal Procedure Entail?

Breast implant removal is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia so that you will not experience any pain or discomfort during your surgery. This procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete, depending on the extent of correction needed.

During your procedure, the incision site from your previous breast augmentation will be used, if possible, to prevent additional scarring. The implants and any scar tissue that has formed around them are then carefully removed. Once the old implants are removed, Dr. Knowling will tighten the breast pocket before closing the incision with sutures. If you are having your old implants replaced, then Dr. Knowling will put the new implants in place before closing the incisions.

If you need your implants removed or replaced due to a rupture or other complication, any silicone will be safely removed, and the breast pocket will be cleaned at the time of your surgery.

Can Breast Implant Removal Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Many women choose to combine their breast implant removal with breast lift surgery (mastopexy). One of the reasons for this is the fact that it is common to have loose and sagging breasts after the implants have been removed. A breast lift helps to correct this by reshaping the breast tissue to give you a higher and perkier appearance to your breasts. In addition to giving more natural and dynamic results, combining these procedures also reduces the overall cost and recovery time, since you are having and recovering from both procedures at the same time.

What Will My Recovery Be Like?

It is important to know what to expect after breast implant removal surgery. Following your procedure, you will have some swelling and bruising in the surgical areas. These side effects should resolve completely in a few weeks. Additionally, you will likely feel some tightness and soreness in your breasts. This is completely normal and to be expected; however, if you experience prolonged or increased pain after your implant removal surgery, then please contact Dr. Knowling immediately.

You will be asked to wear a compression garment and surgical bra for several weeks to support your breasts and minimize swelling. It is important that you wear these garments and take any prescribed medications, as they will help speed up your recovery. Be sure to avoid any strenuous activities for at least a few weeks. This includes exercise and lifting anything of weight. However, taking short, slow walks and engaging in light stretching can help shorten your recovery time. Also, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water can help improve your recovery period.

Breast implant recovery time varies for every patient and is dependent on various factors, including the extent of your removal procedure, whether you are combining your procedure with a breast lift, and whether or not you have new implants placed. However, most patients will be able to return to work between two and four weeks after surgery unless instructed otherwise by Dr. Knowling.

Are There Any Risks or Complications With Breast Implant Removal?

As with any plastic surgery procedure, risks and complications with breast implant removal surgery are rare but possible. Some of the risks associated with this procedure include:

• Asymmetrical breasts
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the anesthesia
• Bleeding
• Loose skin
• Scarring
• Numbness or change in sensation to the breasts and/or nipples

What Results Can I Expect After My Breast Implant Removal?

The results from breast implant removal surgery are both physical and psychological. Not only will you have a physique that helps you express yourself the way you want to be seen, but you will be able to feel more comfortable and confident in your appearance. You can expect long-lasting results that will restore your breasts to their natural state, and if you had your implants replaced, then you will continue to have the voluminous look that you desire. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including having a balanced diet and exercising regularly, can help you prolong your stunning results.