How early can I remove my implants?

Question

33 yrs old ,vertical lift with 360 cc motiva demi ergonomics smooth round implants 3 weeks ago , I'm 5.7ft 160lb. They look weird with no lower pole fullness and are heavy. One side feels too tight and high and is giving me right sided rib pain with deep breaths. Made me look bulky. Hate them and don't have the patience to wait for them to settle. How long do I have to wait for explant?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Luna.ouda, thank you for your question. Generally, an explant surgery can be done 12 months after the surgery has taken place. I always perform an immediate aesthetic reconstruction using the patient's own tissue using the BRALAN Technique (Breast Reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation). It is important to remove the capsule completely to prevent future inflammatory reactions. The scar depends on the specialist surgical technique I always perform this procedure with an L-shaped incision, which for me is the smallest and most discreet incision possible in a breast explant with breast reconstruction. If you are considering a breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. I link a video to shed more light. Best wishes!

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. You can remove your implants as soon as you would like. In my opinion, early removal will have less impact on your soft tissues or overlying breast.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

I recommend as soon as possible. Upon getting breast implants, the body starts to form a capsule around the implant as early as a few weeks. It is better to have the implants removed before the capsule forms in it's entirety.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Luna.ouda,
it is probably better to try to wait until you are fully healed to see the final results. But you can get them out if you want. 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear Luna I understand your concerns, but it's essential to give your body time to heal properly after surgery.

Typically, it's recommended to wait between three to six months to allow for proper healing and assessment of the final outcome before considering explantation. In the meantime, continue to follow up with your surgeon and communicate any concerns or discomfort you may be experiencing.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

With being only 3 week out, you can remove them now.  The skin has not stretched much but the lift will hopefully take in the slack.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jaime Caloca, Jr., MD · Answer

I suggest that the earliest Implant removal be at 6 weeks post-op. This will permit your tissues to be ready to heal once more.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

There is no set time frame for implant removal. You could remove them now. We usually encourage patients to give them some time to settle and get used to them but if they are bothering you now and have made up your mind it is your body and your choice. You chose to put them in and you can certainly decide to have them removed. Noting medically harmful about removing them after three weeks of implantation.

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

The timing for removing breast implants can vary depending on individual circumstances such as health reasons, personal preferences, and the type of implants used. It's essential to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance.Generally, breast implants can be removed at any time after they have been placed. Some common reasons for removing implants include dissatisfaction with the appearance, complications such as implant rupture or capsular contracture, changes in lifestyle or health concerns, or simply a desire to return to a natural breast appearance.It's crucial to discuss your concerns and reasons for wanting to remove your implants with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your situation and discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. They can also provide guidance on the timing of the removal based on your individual circumstances and any specific factors that may affect the procedure's outcome.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can have your implants removed whenever you wish.  However you may feel very differently about your augmentation if you are able to give it more time.  You are likely still swollen and the implants will soften and drop in a more natural position as you heal.