I have had implants for 4 years, now I would like to get them removed. Is it necessary to do a lift or fat grafting? (Photo)

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 Surgeon

Thanks for your question and the photos you provided. Your breasts with implants look natural and appropriate for your frame. That being said, if you remove the implants your breast will look similar to your pre-surgery chest. Now however, your skin on the breast is stretched and may need some skin tightening modalities. Take your recovery day by day and allow yourself to heal. After 3 months you can decide if you want fat grafting -/+ a lift. Good luck!

When you have your implants removed you will lose the volume that is currently provided by the implants. Depending on the amount of natural breast tissue you have you may be okay with the overall look, but they will look deflated. If you are wanting a perky look and upper pole fullness you may want to consider a small implant for overall shape enhancement. See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.