Breast Implant Removal in Beverly Hills: What You Need to Know
Breast Implant Removal may be performed for a variety of reasons, such as simple preference to remove implants and downsize from a previous breast augmentation, implant rupture or leak, capsular contracture, visible rippling, concern for breast implant related illness, or simply feeling “over them.” Removal is a relatively simple procedure that generally requires less recovery time than augmentation. If scar tissue has hardened around the breast implant, aka capsular contracture has developed, part or all of this capsule will also be removed during the procedure.
Ready to learn more about a breast implant removal? Book an appointment with Dr. Anita Patel, considered one of the best plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills.
Quick Links
- Treatment Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Does It Mean When Your Breast Implant Hurts?
- What Does a Ruptured Silicone Implant Feel Like?
- Can You Remove Breast Implants?
- What is an Explant?
- Is Breast Implant Illness Real?
- When Should You Remove Your Breast Implants?
- Does Insurance Cover Breast Implant Removal?
- How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?
Treatment Overview
First, you will meet with Dr. Anita Patel in Beverly Hills to share your concerns and discuss the results that you hope to achieve. This will be followed by a review of your medical history and a focused physical exam. Dr. Anita will then go over the risks and activity restrictions, and give you time to ask questions. Prior to the surgery, you will fill out consent forms.
Breast implant removal typically involves removing the breast implant through the same incision via which they were placed, and may also involve partial or total capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue) depending on the circumstances.
General anesthesia will be administered for this surgery and we recommend that you arrange to have someone drive you to and from the surgery appointment.
- Length of Surgery: 1 hour (longer if adding capsulectomy)
- Anesthesia: General
- Post-Op Activity: Avoid any strenuous activity for 3-6 weeks.
- Return to Work: 3-5 days
Please Note: These are general estimates that may or may not apply to you individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does It Mean When Your Breast Implant Hurts?
If your breast implant hurts this may be a sign of capsular contracture. Rupture is also possible, though this typically does not have associated pain.
What Does a Ruptured Silicone Implant Feel Like?
Ruptured silicone implants are often called “silent ruptures” because of the tendency for the breast and implant to feel normal. This is because the silicone tends to stay in the breast capsule. If the silicone were able to leak out of the capsule, it may cause an inflammatory reaction by the body, where the body “walls off” the silicone by creating scar tissue around it.
Can You Remove Breast Implants?
Yes, breast implants can be removed. The breasts may or may not appear similar to their preoperative appearance following removal.
What is an Explant?
Explant surgery refers to breast implant removal.
Is Breast Implant Illness Real?
Breast Implant Illness (BII) has been a controversial topic, with some convinced it does not exist and others convinced it does. There have been enough women with similar complaints that it requires further study and analysis. BII is characterized by a constellation of vague symptoms, and often the symptoms are attributed to other factors. However, if any patient wants her implants out, that is her choice to make, just as augmentation was her choice to make. There is no guarantee implant removal will relieve the symptoms, but it is reasonable to remove the implants if no other explanation has been found for the symptoms, and/or the patient simply wants them out.
When Should You Remove Your Breast Implants?
The most common reason implants are removed are patient preference, rupture or leak, or capsular contracture. Less common reasons to remove them are if there is a concern for breast implant illness or BIA-ALCL.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Implant Removal?
Insurance may or may not cover breast implant removal. It varies based on the insurance provider and the specific plan. Some insurance companies will provide coverage in select circumstances like ruptured silicone implant, or Stage 3 or 4 capsular contracture.
How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?
The cost for breast implant removal surgery will depend on a number of factors, including whether or not there is ruptured implant material, need for capsulectomy, and if you require additional procedures such as breast lift. To provide you with accurate pricing information, we invite you to book a complimentary Pre-Consult Phone Call with our Patient Care Coordinator by calling 310.205.0212. During that phone call, important information will be discussed and ballpark pricing will be provided.
Inbox Upgrade
The latest on treatment, beauty, Dr. Patel’s events, and more delivered straight to your inbox today.