Breast Implant Removal Pittsburgh

Home · Breast · Breast Implant Removal

Introduction to

Breast Implant Removal Pittsburgh

Many patients today are opting to remove their breast implants for several reasons. Some patients have gained weight, their breasts have enlarged with time, and the implants may no longer be needed. Others may feel that the implants no longer “fit their body” and want to restore more of an athletic look. There are also a growing number of patients that feel that their implants may be negatively affecting their overall wellbeing. Whatever the reason, patients need to know what options are available to keep an aesthetically pleasing look to their breasts once the implant is gone.

Breast Implant Removal Procedure

This surgery, also known as EXPLANTATION involves making a small incision (usually under the breasts or around the areola) and the implant is withdrawn. This is usually a straightforward procedure for saline and intact silicone gel implants, but can be more involved if the implant being removed is a broken gel implant. In this case, the silicone gel (the stuff inside the implant) has to be removed in addition to the implant shell, which is very doable but takes more time. SIMPLE EXPLANTATION is just removal of the implant (and the stuff inside) and does not include removal of the capsule.

The capsule is the fibrous membrane that the human body normally develops around a breast implant. Some people make a thin stretchy capsule, while some make one that is thicker and less pliable. CAPSULECTOMY means removal of this fibrous tissue, and is sometimes done in conjunction with implant removal. A PARTIAL CAPSULECTOMY removes some, whereas COMPLETE CAPSULECTOMY removes all. An EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY is a procedure that entails removal of implant and surrounding capsule together. There are pros and cons to these options, and implant location (in front of or behind the pectoralis muscle) plays a key role and Dr. Pautler can elaborate on what the best option is for each patient. Sometimes the capsule doesn’t need to be removed at all, whereas is some cases it may be advisable to remove all or as much as possible.

Dr. Pautler usually puts a small drainage catheter for a few days after implant removal with or without capsulectomy to speed healing and close down the implant space. Oral antibiotics are administered for the duration of the catheter placement. Recovery is approximately 2 weeks, and most regular activities, including vigorous exercise, can be resumed after 3 weeks.

What Will my Breasts Look Like After the Implants are Out?

The answer varies from patient to patient, and depends on the volume of the implant removed, how long the implants were in, and how much pre-existing breast tissue there is. Also, patient age, tissue quality, and weight fluctuations also play a role. Bottom line: the thicker the breast envelope, and the smaller the removed implant is, the better the breasts will look after. FEW patients can have their implants removed and not need any other additional breast procedures. Thin patients with large implants will most likely need an additional procedure to restore an aesthetically pleasing shape to their breasts.

Mastopexy

A MASTOPEXY, or breast lift, is a procedure that removes loose skin, but retains all breast tissue. Please refer to the mastopexy section of this website for additional details. The majority of patients who have their implants removed will need some element of skin tightening, or lift, to reduce the laxity of the skin that accommodated the implant.

Fat Transfer

FAT TRANSFER is another procedure that can be done to enhance the look of the explanted breast. Fat is gently removed from the thighs, belly, or back, and collected in a sterile system that allows it to separate from oil, blood and other body fluids. The fat is then injected into the breast envelope to provide more volume to the stretched out tissue. The fat is NOT injected into the space where the implant was, rather, it is carefully spaced out and grafted into the layer between the breast skin and capsule. Some patients can have both fat grafting and mastopexy to maximize the volume and aesthetics of the breast shape.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are contemplating implant removal, Dr. Pautler can discuss with you the options available, show you pictures of other patients’ before and after photos, and help guide your decision. For more information or to make a consultation, please contact Dr Pautler’s Plastic Surgery Practice near Pittsburgh.

 

Breast Implant Removal Photos

See the results for yourself

Featured Testimonials

Here’s what our clients have to say

"Dr. Pautler is fantastic. I had a breast augmentation and lift in December 2017 after one of my implants ruptured from a previous augmentation done about 15 years ago (with a different doctor). The results are exactly what I was hoping for! Dr Pautler also has a great bedside manner, is very patient and answers all your questions, works with you to figure out what you're looking for, and is extremely talented. I don't have enough amazing things to say about her and my experience. I also had a pretty quick recovery. Was up and moving around a day or two after surgery with minimal pain. The office staff is also so helpful!  I'm adding this review because I did a ton of research when looking for a plastic surgeon and I'm posting this for the next person who isn't sure which doctor to choose. Choose Dr. Pautler. She's amazing."

"In all aspects of the surgical experience over a five month period of time from initial consultation to most recent followup appointment, each and every aspect of my experience with this entire professional office stands as a model for what all patients deserve who place their trust and well being in the hands of medical professionals. Please continue to offer this exemplary standard of care, respect, support, and medical expertise that made for such a personal positive experience and result."

"Dr. Pautler is the best! I had a tummy tuck and liposuction of my sides. My results are better than I could have ever dreamed of!! I finally have my body back! Dr. Pautler spent a lot of time with me before the surgery explaining all the ins and outs. I saw her and her nurse a lot after the surgery and they were always available to answer any questions. I highly recommend her!"

 

"She is amazing. A truly careful, competent and artistic plastic surgeon who is also a good and decent person. I met with all the top plastic surgeons in the area and went with Dr. Pautler. She will take good care of you and you will love the results. I know people who have come in from far away for procedures after seeing her results. Seriously the best decision I made was choosing her for this procedure."

 

GET IN TOUCH

Thanks For Visiting!

If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pautler, please contact our practice using the provided form. A member of our staff will be in touch with you shortly.

GET IN TOUCH

Recent Blogs

Dr. Pautler’s thoughts

Fat Transfer To The Breasts

Fat Transfer To The Breasts

Facial plastic surgery header

Cost of Cosmetic Surgery In Pittsburgh

Labiaplasty Pittsburgh

Tummy Tuck Pittsburgh

Ear Surgery Pittsburgh

Scroll to Top