Removing saline or silicone implants

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD answers: How do I find a trustworthy doctor for breast explantation?

I need to get an explantation, but don't have any idea how to find a surgeon. How do I find a trustworthy doctor to do the procedure? My GP couldn't help me with this question. I live in Florida.


Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
6 months ago

Explantation of silicone or saline implants is not technically challenging and should only be done by a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. The key question arises with the remaining breast tissue. Find a surgeon with enough experience and good bedside manner who can discuss the consequences and goals of treatment after explantation.

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A: Credentials, then questions

Brent Moelleken, MD
11 months ago

Once you have checked the credentials of the doctor (board certified in plastic surgery, hospital affiliations, where did they go to school, ASAPS, ASPS, years in practice, experience, etc.), you may want to ask questions during your consultation with the doctor.

A straightforward explantation of a breast implant is a technically easy procedure.

However, will all the scar tissue be removed?  Does it all need to be removed?  What will the breasts look like afterward?  Is a lift required?  Will there be sagging skin?  A plastic surgeon experienced with breast surgery will be able to anticipate these problems ahead of time.  This could prevent the heartache and expense of having to have revision breast surgery when a predictable problem occurs.

You should get reasonable answers from these questions and feel comfortable with your surgeon before proceeding.

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A: Physician referral

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD
11 months ago

I would ask your gynecologist. Every woman who has had a breast implant or trouble with breast implants has seen a gynecologist. Gynecologists also usually have need to refer to plastic surgeons for breast issues and good doctors usually refer to other good doctors. If you do not find success there, try the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and ask for a referral to a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. Good luck.

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