Can gummy bear implants be removed under local anesthesia?

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeo

The answer is generally "yes" if you do not have capsular contracture, implants have not ruptured, have a small amount of breast tissue, and want to have your breast implants removed under local anesthesia. Your best answer will come from your board certified plastic surgeon who implanted them.

Dear cafvidales,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, it is possible to remove implants under local anesthesia. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It is possible to remove implants under local anesthesia. However, if they are retro-pectoral or textured then they are more difficult to remove. It may be better doing it under general anesthesia.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hello @cafvidales thank you for your question. Yes, implants can be removed under local anesthesia. However I suggest not to go that route even though is less expensive is not the safest way to have an implant removal. For me the safety of my patients is one of the more important things and the safest way to perform an explant is under general antithesis in an accredited clinic. If you have abreast implant removal under local anesthesia the capsules will stay in the body, that leads to problems like infection and fluid collection, also the breast can not be reconstructed.If you are interested in having surgery, it is best to consult one or more board certified plastic surgeons to get more information and options tailored specifically to your situation. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD FACS

It is possible to have implants removed with local anesthesia. You will need to speak with your surgeon to ensure you are a candidate. If you would like a lift or the capsules removed as well then general anesthesia will be needed.

If your implants are smooth, then yes, they can be removed under local. If they are textured, it would be easier for you to be put to sleep or IV sedation. If the capsule is thick, you will need to be put to sleep or have IV sedation.