Breast Implant Removal
Breast Implant Removal Surgeons in Seattle, WA
At Sound Plastic Surgery in Seattle, Dr. Joshua Cooper and Dr. Scott Sattler are board-certified plastic surgeons who tailor each explant surgery to the patient’s anatomy, implant history, and reason for removal. Patients tend to choose a breast implant removal surgery for several reasons, including implant aging, rupture, capsular contracture (the tightening of scar tissue around the implant), concerns about breast implant illness (BII), or simply wanting to return to a more natural breast size.
Most patients return to light daily activities within a few days and avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks while the breast tissue settles into its new shape. View our recent breast implant removal results.
Breast Implant Removal Surgery at Sound Plastic Surgery
Breast implant removal, sometimes called explant surgery, is a procedure that removes breast implants placed during a previous breast augmentation. Patients choose breast implant removal for many reasons, including lifestyle changes, implant aging, personal preference, or concerns about breast implant illness or other complications. At Sound Plastic Surgery in Seattle, our board-certified breast surgeons perform breast implant removal with a personalized approach designed to restore comfort and natural breast contours.
While breast implants are durable medical devices, they are not intended to last forever. Some patients eventually decide they prefer a smaller or more natural look, while others may experience issues such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or implant displacement. In these situations, breast implant removal can help address discomfort and improve overall breast appearance. In many cases, patients also explore options such as breast lift surgery or breast implant revision to restore breast shape after the implants are removed.
Sound Plastic Surgery has a private on-site Ambulatory Surgery Facility that is certified by the Washington Department of Health.
Common Reasons Patients Choose Breast Implant Removal
Patients pursue breast implant removal for both medical and personal reasons. Some individuals simply want to return to a more natural breast size after many years with implants. Others may experience complications such as implant rupture or tightening of the scar capsule around the implant, known as capsular contracture.
Another reason for implant removal is lifestyle change. Patients who previously had breast augmentation may find their aesthetic goals have evolved. Pregnancy, weight changes, and aging can also alter breast shape, leading some patients to combine implant removal with a breast lift procedure to achieve a more youthful contour.
Some women are concerned about breast implant illness and desire the removal of their implants.
What Happens During Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully removes the implants through the original incision whenever possible to minimize additional scarring. In some cases, the surrounding scar tissue capsule may also be removed to improve comfort and healing.
Depending on the condition of the breast tissue and skin elasticity, patients may choose to combine implant removal with additional procedures to enhance shape. A breast lift can help reposition the breast and tighten excess skin, while other patients may choose revision options such as breast implant replacement if they want to maintain volume.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after breast implant removal varies depending on the surgical plan and whether additional procedures are performed. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days, though strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks.
Swelling and mild discomfort are normal in the early stages of healing, and your breast surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions to support a smooth recovery. Many patients reviewing their options find it helpful to explore before-and-after galleries or learn more about related procedures such as breast augmentation before deciding on the best treatment approach.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
You may be a good candidate for breast implant removal if you are experiencing implant-related concerns, changes in breast appearance, or simply wish to return to a more natural breast shape. Ideal candidates are generally in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of surgery.
During your consultation at Sound Plastic Surgery, your personal breast surgeon will review your implant history, discuss your goals, and recommend the best surgical approach for your situation. Patients often compare implant removal with other procedures such as breast implant revision or breast lift surgery to determine which option best aligns with their goals.
FAQ
Why do patients choose breast implant removal?
Patients may choose breast implant removal due to implant aging, complications such as rupture or capsular contracture, lifestyle changes, or a desire for a more natural breast appearance.
Will my breasts look different after implant removal?
Yes, breast appearance will change after implants are removed. Some patients have sufficient natural breast tissue to maintain shape, while others may choose a breast lift to improve contour and positioning.
Can implants be replaced at the same time they are removed?
Yes. Some patients opt to replace their implants with a different size or type during the same procedure. This approach is commonly discussed during consultations for breast implant revision.
Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation in Seattle
Breast implant removal can help restore comfort and confidence while aligning your results with your current lifestyle and aesthetic goals. At Sound Plastic Surgery in Seattle, our experienced plastic surgeons specialize in advanced breast procedures designed to provide safe, natural-looking outcomes. If you are considering implant removal or exploring options such as breast implant revision or breast lift surgery, our team is here to guide you through every step. Contact our Seattle office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.
Gallery
Breast Surgery Before & After
