Breast Implant Removal

Implant removal surgery involves removing existing breast implants and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule). The breasts are often re-shaped to optimize aesthetics.

Common reasons women undergo implant removal surgery include:

No longer wish to have breast implants
Desire a smaller breast size
Aged implants
Ruptured implants
Implant-related health concerns

Breast implants are not lifetime devices and as such ultimately need to be replaced or removed. Additionally, patient’s attitudes regarding their breast implants may change with time, prompting them to seek implant removal. In patients who choose to have their breast implants removed, a discussion regarding the expected appearance of the breasts following surgery is essential. Following a breast augmentation, the implant acts as an internal tissue expander that pushes out against the breast tissue, muscle and skin. Over time, this stretches the skin and thins the native breast tissue. This phenomenon is easily recognized as the period in which the implants “drop” following their initial placement. When the implants are removed, these changes are unmasked, leaving a breast shape that is unlike the pre-augmented version. Therefore, breast tissue reshaping is an integral part of implant removal surgery. The goal is to safely remove the implants and surrounding scar tissue while elevating and re-centering the breast tissue and nipple to create an aesthetically pleasing shape.

Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of systemic symptoms thought to be related to breast implants. Although implant-related systemic disease has been an area of intense research focus as well as patient interest, a causal linkage between breast implants and systemic disease has not been elucidated. Nevertheless, there are studies that demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in subjective health following implant removal in patients distressed by their implants. Unfortunately, it remains unclear which patients will benefit from implant removal and why. Although some patients experience significant improvement in their health, others do not. This is important as it sets expectations for the prospective surgical patient. Hopefully, further research in this area will add clarity for both patients and providers.

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Implant Removal Procedure

REMOVE AND RESHAPE

Patient’s attitude regarding their breast implants may change with time. As such, some patients may request implant removal and breast reshaping. During this procedure, implants and scar tissue are removed with a focus on preserving breast aesthetics. Your breasts, according to you.

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What to Expect

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

Consultation

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.

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Surgery

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.

PRE-OPERATIVE GUIDANCE

General Instructions

1. Stop all Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, Fish Oil, Supplements with Omega 3, Ginger, Garlic, Ginkgo Biloba and Turmeric – as these will thin the blood and complicate the surgery. You may take Tylenol as needed.
2. Medications – please notify us of any medications or supplements that you take regularly so that we may advise you appropriately.
3. Please fill all prescriptions prior to surgery so that they may be started immediately upon returning home.
4. Please no recreational drug use or smoking 4 weeks prior to and after the surgery.
5. Please have lab work completed 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.
6. Contact us immediately if you have any change in your health between your pre-operative visit and the surgery date.
7. Arrange for a driver to pick you up from the surgery center. Uber or Lyft are not acceptable. The driver does not have to remain onsite during surgery. they will be called when you are ready to be discharged from the recovery unit.
8. Make sure you have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24-48 hours following surgery – this is for your safety.
9. DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER MIDNIGHT THE NIGHT BEFORE SURGERY.

Create a “Wish Picture”

Visualizing the volumetric breast change on your own body can be invaluable to the surgical planning process! The Mentor™ 3D Breast Simulator app will facilitate the creation of a “wish picture” prior to your pre-operative visit and works best for augmentation and/or lift procedures. Simply take three pictures as instructed and begin simulating the desired look of your new breasts. When finished, you can securely send your photos to us at info@donaldmowldsmd.com.

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Morning of Surgery

1. Take a shower using anti-bacterial soap – No lotions, hair products, powders, perfumes or makeup.
2. Wear loose comfortable clothing to the surgery center. We recommend wearing zip-up or button-up shirts and loose, comfortable pants.
3. Female patients will be given a urine pregnancy test at the surgery center.

We are here to help you through your recovery. Please do not hesitate to call our office.

Recovery

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 with underwire for 6 weeks following surgery.

POST-OPERATIVE GUIDANCE

General Instructions

1. Prescriptions provided at your pre-operative appointment should be filled prior to surgery and started when you arrive home. Take the first antibiotic dose at dinner time.
2. Please take a daily stool softener (e.g. Colace) or laxative (e.g. Senokot) while taking the pain medication. Stop if stools become loose.
3. Do not take Aspirin, Motrin, Aleve or herbal medications as these interfere with your blood’s ability to clot.
4. Bruising is a normal part of surgery. Over-the-counter Arnica can help expedite its resolution.
5. Continue to remain hydrated following the surgery.
6. Resume your regular diet, there are no restrictions. If you become nauseous, carbonated beverages and crackers may help settle the stomach. Zofran (Ondansetron) will be prescribed and can be taken as well.
7. Make sure you have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24-48 hours following surgery – this is for your safety
8. Keep all dressings in place, clean and dry. We will remove them at your first post-operative appointment.
9. Sponge bath only. Do not shower, soak or swim until cleared.
10. Sleep on your back preferably at a 45o angle until cleared for side sleep.
11. If you had a breast augmentation, you will be placed in the underwire bra you were instructed to buy immediately following surgery. Wear this at all times.
12. If you also had a breast lift or underwent a breast reduction, you will be placed in the underwire bra you were instructed to buy at your first post-operative visit. You will wear this for 6 weeks.
13. Ambulate throughout the day to prevent blood clots in your legs.
14. Do not lift anything heavier than a purse and no pushing, pulling, exercise or any activity that may raise your blood pressure until cleared.
15. No smoking – this inhibits wound healing, causing undesirable complications.
16. Driving – Do not drive or perform any tasks that require coordination or judgement for at least 72 hours after general anesthesia or while taking narcotic pain medication.
17. Please call the office if you experience fever, chills, increased pain, wound drainage or if you have any concerns. Our office hours are Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm and Friday 9am-12pm. To reach me after hours, please call the office and follow the prompts.

Results

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.

FAQs

Will breast implant removal improve my health-related concerns?

It is without a doubt that many patients who seek breast implant removal and capsulectomy for health-related concerns experience improvement in their symptoms following surgery. Unfortunately, symptom relief is not guaranteed, and it’s impossible to predict an individual’s response to surgery. As such, it is important to be prepared for partial, temporary or no improvement in your health.

How do I know if I need a lift?

During your consultation we will discuss your goals and expected result. The need for a lift is determined by your desired breast shape, skin quality and the current position of your nipple with respect to your breast crease. Some patients wish to simply undergo implant and capsule removal, which is perfectly acceptable. During your consultation, we will discuss the expected appearance and the decision to pursue breast re-shaping to improve aesthetics will be yours.

Will I need drains?

Yes. Drains will remain in place for approximately 5 days in order to assist with fluid egress. Preventing post-operative fluid build-up is important and increases the safety of the procedure. It is important to know that drains do not hurt. Removal is simple, painless and done during your office visit.

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IMPLANT REMOVAL SURGERY

Receive an in-depth consultation where we will thoroughly review your goals to personalize a plan focused on a natural and aesthetic result. Dr. Donald S. Mowlds, MD is located in beautiful Newport Beach, CA but is also available via a virtual consultation for out-of-town patients.

Or Call 949.759.5539

Before & After

Stunning, natural results from patients.

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Types of Breast Surgery

All procedures are done in a balanced and natural esthetic.

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation utilizes silicone or saline implants to enhance both breast volume and shape.

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Breast Lift

A breast lift, or mastopexy, involves repositioning the breast tissue and nipple on the chest wall, restoring a youthful appearance and feel.

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Breast Revision

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. As such, many women ultimately require revisionary breast procedures to replace their implants. Breast shape changes with time so revision breast surgery often includes additional procedures designed to create a natural, youthful breast.

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Breast Implant Removal

Implant removal surgery involves removing existing breast implants and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule). The breasts are often re-shaped to optimize aesthetics.

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Breast Reduction

During breast reduction surgery, breast tissue and skin are removed, contouring the breast into a smaller more aesthetically pleasing shape.

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Breast Reconstruction / Breast Cancer

Restoration of form and function is one of the tenants of plastic surgery and breast reconstruction, specifically, epitomizes this mantra.

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Patient Reviews

Samira H.

Dr. Mowlds was very personable, informative, and a great listener

I met Dr. Mowlds for the first time back in April of 2023 and knew right away that I could trust him with my procedures. He made me feel at ease and catered to exactly what I was looking for. His staff was very friendly, always available and would respond to my questions very quickly before and after my surgery. My surgery was a complete success. I am very happy with the results and I would highly recommend Dr. Mowlds to all my family and friends. Truly an exceptional experience! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 🥰❤️🙏🏻

Samira H.

Daisy M.

Dr. Mowlds is by far the BEST to say the least

I’m glad I came across him. His staff is AMAZING, always a phone call or text away pre and post op. I had gone to several consults in which they didn’t make me comfortable or confident to choose them. Dr. Mowlds and I met. I explained to him my complicated case, my concerns and showed him what he had to fix. He shared his thoughts, knowledge and was up for the challenge. He was very detailed in his explanations and sure did deliver. I have no regrets picking him as my surgeon. HE IS THE BEST!

Daisy M.

Jessica T.

I am SO HAPPY with my new body!!

Dr. Mowlds replaced my breast implants and gave me a full tummy tuck. My scars are so minimal! The man has good hands! He took so much time to listen to me, care about my concerns and really understand the results I was hoping for. Can I just say, THIS MAN DELIVERED!! He actually gave me better results than I was hoping for. Finally a man who keeps his word! Hahahaha! His assistant, Mallory, also took so much time with me, checked in, listened, always responded to my messages right away and was just so sweet!! Two of my friends have also gone to him for breast augmentation because of how pleased I am with my experience and results. Thank you, Dr. Mowlds, for my reconstructed body-ody!! It’s amazing now bc of your skill and artistic craftsmanship!

Jessica T.

Kinda H.

I have seen a number of surgeons around the world and Dr. Mowlds is by far THE BEST

I am absolutely thrilled with my results! Not only is he knowledgeable and meticulous, he’s a great listener. As a result, he put a thoughtful and innovative plan together for my case that no other surgeon had considered before and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Very little pain post surgery and he put me at ease from start to finish. Mallory, his office manager, is also wonderful and was always available to answer my questions. I highly recommended him and his team.

Kinda H.

Andrea R.

I loved that Dr. Mowlds treated me like a friend who he wanted to have the best experience and results possible

Dr. Mowlds is the absolute BEST at what he does. I had a botched breast augmentation, which was causing me serious health concerns, chronic chest and back pain. I was extremely nervous as I didn’t think my issue could be resolved, let’s just say my breasts needed a lot of work. He is a true artist in his field, and my breasts are proof of that. Dr. Mowlds was professional, warm, knowledgeable, talented, and great at listening to my concerns and helping me understand everything along the way. I have already recommended a few of my girlfriends to go see him.

Andrea R.

Ulyana F.

Dr. Mowlds’ work and meticulous attention to detail is exceptional!

5 stars is not enough for Dr. Mowlds and his team! Dr. Mowlds is a highly qualified and skilled cosmetic surgeon. Mallory the patient coordinator is always so helpful and pleasant. Brittany the PA is professional and very sweet. From the consult to the post-op appointments, I always feel like I am Dr. Mowlds’ only patient. His professionalism, knowledge, expertise, bedside manner, kindness, attentiveness along with my results are all beyond my highest expectations.

Ulyana F.

Merdith V.

Dr. Mowlds is very meticulous, gentle, honest and has good, conservative taste

Dr. Mowlds was extremely professional and made me feel very comfortable in what would typically be a very nervous, uncertain situation around needles. He took his time and was very patient answering all my questions. I’ve been seeing him for Botox, lip + laser treatments and will not go to anyone else. So grateful to have found him!

Merdith V.

Melanie M.

It is quite evident Dr. Mowlds takes a lot of pride in the work that he performs!

Dr. Mowlds and his staff provided me with outstanding and professional healthcare. He always treated me with kindness and respect during our patient visits. I underwent an extensive back surgery and was not only concerned with the physical results, but additionally, the functional results of an extensive surgical closure. I am so grateful my neurosurgeon recommended and works in collaboration with Dr Mowlds. I am extremely pleased with the aesthetic results of my surgery and would not hesitate to recommend this professional practice.

Melanie M.

Nicole K.

Dr. Mowlds is a phenomenal surgeon and I feel so blessed to have had him do my surgery!!

I had symmastia breast reconstructive surgery done by Dr. Mowlds. I had lived the last 15 years with my breasts looking like a “uni-boob.” I felt so self conscious for many years. I also breast fed 2 kids so I had a lot of rippling and loss of saline in my old implants. Dr. Mowlds was extremely honest, caring and helpful with making the decision to fix my breasts. He listened to exactly what I wanted and his staff was absolutely amazing!! In order to reconstruct my breasts he used galaflex absorbable mesh to separate my breasts and make them normal again. I went with silicone implants this time and could not be happier with my results. Everyday I feel so thankful I can look in the mirror and feel normal. Dr. Mowlds is the ABSOLUTE BEST SURGEON!!

Nicole K.

Abigail S.

After a virtual consultation, I knew Dr. Mowlds was the right choice
After consulting with numerous plastic surgeons I decided on Dr. Mowlds for my c-section scar revision and Renuvion skin tightening. I had 3 emergency c-sections that had left me with a terrible looking scar. The added bonus was that he has the Renuvion skin tightening machine which is the gold standard in skin tightening and I am amazed at my results just 3 weeks out. I am so happy with my decision and would highly recommend Dr. Mowlds for any cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.

Abigail S.

Scarlett A.

Dr. Mowlds made me feel so much more confident and the results were more than I could have ever hoped for

He did liposuction under my neck to get rid of my double chin and define my jawline. It was the best decision I have ever made. The surgery was easy and recovery was smooth. Dr. Mowlds checks up on his patients every 2-3 weeks to make sure the results are perfect. Highly recommend this surgery and Dr. Mowlds!!

Scarlett A.