Breast Implant Removal

All procedures are done in a balanced fashion to create a natural esthetic.

During the in-depth consultation we will thoroughly review your reasons for undergoing breast implant removal. Expectations following your procedure will be discussed as this will determine if additional breast re-shaping will be required. Breast implants add volume to the breast and when removed, the remaining breast tissue is often much less than anticipated. This can impart a lack of fullness at the top portion of the breast. It is important to realize that your breasts will not look like they did prior to your augmentation when the implants are removed. Breast re-shaping can dramatically improve the post-operative result and this will be discussed.

During your consultation, many measurements are recorded, which ultimately facilitate incision location and lift technique, if required.

Surgery is performed at an accredited surgery center in Newport Beach, California, USA and typically lasts 1-3 hours depending on the degree of shaping required to achieve your desired look. Under the care of a Board Certified Anesthesiologist, general anesthesia (fully asleep) is used to ensure maximal comfort and safety. Upon request, En-bloc removal of the breast implant and capsule (scar tissue) will be performed if determined to be safe. The capsule will be sent for pathological evaluation in order to identify any abnormalities.

There are several different ways to approach a breast lift, if required, following implant removal. The incisions used will depend on the existing breast size and shape.

Crescent Lift

The incision is disguised in the upper areolar margin and generally heals very well. A crescent lift is only used in cases that involve minimal nipple malposition.

Lollipop Lift

The incision is disguised in the areolar margin with a vertical extension to the breast crease, allowing the skin to be more aggressively tightened while simultaneously elevating the nipple and areola. There is less scarring than the anchor lift and the areola can often be reduced in size if the patient desires. This technique is useful in patients with mild to moderate breast ptosis.

Anchor Lift

The incision is similar to the lollipop incision in that it is disguised in the areolar margin with a vertical extension to the breast crease. There is an additional horizontal incision that is hidden in the breast crease, which allows for maximal skin removal, tightening and nipple/areolar repositioning. The areolas can be reduced in size if the patient desires.  This technique is useful in patients with moderate to severe breast ptosis.

Patients are discharged home the same day and generally experience very minimal discomfort, often returning to light work within a week following surgery. Post-operatively, patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy labor for 6 weeks following the procedure in order to ensure proper healing. I ask that my patients wear a supportive bra without underwire for 6 weeks following surgery.

The results are expected to be long lasting provided patients maintain an active lifestyle and avoid significant change in natural breast volume (e.g. pregnancy and significant fluctuations in weight). Skin gradually loses its innate elasticity as we age, which unavoidably compromises the robustness of the lift, if performed. As such, patients may desire additional revisionary procedures to re-elevate and tighten the breasts.

All procedures are done in a balanced and natural esthetic.

Silicone vs Saline Implants. Over or under the muscle?