Is it Possible to Remove Implants After 15 Years without Replacing them?

Question

Had my implants in for 15 yrs one side has became harder. I would now like them removed by a good surgeon can anybody recommend a good one that will remove without replacing

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Good day! Yes, it is possible to remove and not have them replaced. For your guidance, the shape and size of the breast will be unpredictable after explantation. Result varies between patients and it will largely depend upon their age, duration and size of the implant, or previous state of their breasts like existing anatomy, deformity, previous surgeries, underlying personal and family medical conditions, nicotine use, pregnancy and other factors. Improved appearance can be achieved through a lift or fat transfer in conjunction or after explantation if you are not satisfied with the results. Do not hesitate to ask your surgeon about this and discuss realistic goals and expectations. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes you can have your implants removed without replacing them.  If one is harder you may have capsular contracture, in which case it may be recommended to have the capsules removed as well.  Visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Removing implants and only removing implants is a straightforward procedure. I would caution you to do that because in most cases the remaining tissue and loose skin will leave flat unfavorable looking breasts. Of course an exam would be critical.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

The short answer is yes you can have your implants removed.

	The implants are 15 years old, there is the capsule that needs to be removed.

	You have options

	1: remove the implants with capsulectomy and do nothing else

	2: remove implants with capsulectomy and breast lift immediate or at a later stage

	3: remove the implants with capsulectomy and replace the implants with new implants, silicone or saline

	These are the decisions you need to make with your plastic surgeon

	Choose an experienced board certified plastic surgeon (American Board Of Plastic Surgery)

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Removal of breast implants is a relatively simple/pain-free procedure. You may also wish to have the hardened breast implant capsule removed at the same time.

	What your breasts will look like after explantation  depends on several factors such as: the quality of skin elasticity (the better the elasticity the better the skin will bounce back),  the size of the implants used (the larger the implant the more trouble you may have with redundant skin), and the amount of breast tissue present at this time (which may have changed since the time of your breast augmentation). 

	Life experience since your breast augmentation procedure, such as pregnancy or weight gain weight loss, will  potentially influence the factors discussed above. If you take these factors into consideration and apply them  to your specific circumstances you may get a good idea of what to expect after the implants are removed.
	Consulting with a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon in person may be helpful.

	Best wishes.

Phillip C. Haeck, MD (retired) · Answer

After removing breast implants you may not go back to the way you looked before your surgery. 15 years is a long time to stretch your skin. In fact you may wish to have a lift after living with the new look for a few months. The reaction that most patients have after seeing themselves without implants is variable, from depressed to joyful so make sure you have some support for this from friends, family or a significant other, not to mention a caring and supportive plastic surgeon.

Is it Possible to Remove Implants After 15 Years without Replacing them?

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