Breast Implant Removal Brisbane

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Breast implant removal, also known as breast explant surgery, is the removal of breast implants and scar tissue that has formed around the implant. There are many reasons women choose to have breast explant surgery, whether for aesthetic reasons or comfort. Usually, patients choose to remove breast implants if they’re causing problems; however, some patients want to have them removed voluntarily.

Also known as:
Revision Breast Augmentation
Breast Explant Surgery
Explantation

Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Breast implants can be removed for several different reasons. Every patient’s reason for having their breast explant surgery is personal. However, some reasons may include:

  • Capsular contracture (when scar tissue contracts around the implant)
  • Implant rupture or displacement of the implant
  • Concerns about breast implant illness (BII)
  • The patient will be undergoing breast cancer treatment
  • Concerns about breast shape such as drooping or tuberous breasts
  • Personal preference – some patients want a change in size, shape or position, or wish to remove their implants

In rare cases, patients wish to correct a serious complication such as infection or breast asymmetry. No matter the reasons for breast implant removal, breast surgeon Dr Andrew Broadhurst in Brisbane uses the best techniques according to the needs of each patient.

Implant Removal with Dr Broadhurst

“I pride myself on the individual care and support I provide each of my patients. From your first consultation, I will work one-on-one with you to tailor a treatment plan to suit your unique body, fit your lifestyle and achieve the enhanced look you’ve been dreaming of.”

Meet Dr Broadhurst

Consultation

Your Initial Consultation

Your initial meeting with Dr Andrew Broadhurst will take place over the phone or via FaceTime. Due to the personal nature of breast implant removal, Dr Broadhurst will ask questions about your medical history and past breast surgeries. As well as this, you will need to discuss your reasons for wanting breast explant surgery. Dr Broadhurst will tailor your procedure to your body and the outcome you wish to achieve.

There are different types of breast implant removal, including:

  • Implant removal and replacement
  • Explant (removal of the implant only)
  • Removal with a capsulectomy (removal of thick scar tissue)
  • Implant removal with a breast lift

After a breast implant has been placed, scar tissue forms around it, known as the “capsule.” During a breast explant surgery, the breast implant capsule sometimes needs to be removed along with the implant. Whilst it is easy to remove a thick firm capsule, it is much harder to remove a thin capsule. Patients with a thin capsule likely do not need it removed. You can discuss this during your appointment.

Once you have discussed these things, Dr Broadhurst will outline the best treatment plan for your body, as well as what to expect after the surgery and during the recovery stage.

Your Second Consultation

Your second consult will be face to face at one of our Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, or Ballina locations. He will provide ample information about whichever surgery option is right for you. This meeting will take place a few weeks before your surgery to ensure you have a thorough understanding of the process. It will be at no cost to you.

You are welcome to ask any questions or concerns you may have regarding breast implant removal surgery. After this, you should have a clear idea of what to expect from your breast explant surgery, including before and after.

Procedure

What to expect during your procedure?

Breast explant surgery will take about one to two hours to complete. However, this depends on the type of breast implant removal you choose. Many women choose to have their implants removed and not replaced. In some cases, the implant along with the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) will be taken out. Whether you are looking for breast implant removal or replacement, your customised plan will help you achieve the results you desire. Depending on your concerns, this process can help you improve the shape, size, or position of your breasts as well as eliminate issues from your past surgery.

Incision and scarring

Generally, implant removal surgery involves an incision in the breast crease, which will typically only leave a very thin scar. Whilst your breast surgeon will use techniques to reduce scarring, the prominence of your scars will depend on how your body heals. The scar may appear slightly different from the scar after the previous breast procedure.

Breast implant removal without replacement

If you no longer desire your implants, removal can bring your breasts back to their original shape and size. Your breast surgeon makes an incision along or above the breast crease through which the implants are removed. The scar capsule around the implant may be removed through a capsulectomy or en bloc.

Breast explant surgery with a lift and skin tightening

This procedure helps you achieve a natural look. As breast implants cause the breast to stretch, your breast surgeon may also suggest mastopexy at the same time as implant removal. This will include a lift to correct sagging, which will elevate the nipple and areola. It will also reshape your breasts for a more natural shape and lift.

Breast implant removal with replacement

Many women choose to replace their implants due to implant ruptures, leaks, deflation, hardened scar tissue, or other issues. Implants will last about 15 to 20 years, although replacement is often advised after 10 years. This process involves removing the implants, followed by tightening the skin in some cases, and finally insertion of new implants.

Read more information about Implant Removal & Replacement

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Free Information Sheet

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How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in Brisbane?

Breast explant surgery is an in-depth process that is different for every patient. It requires the correct processes and facilities to give patients the best outcomes. As a result, costs can vary. A number of factors are taken into account when outlining costs. For example, the length and extent of the procedure, hospital fees, and aftercare costs all need to be considered. For patients who are replacing their implants, this can also affect the pricing.

Some patients need this surgery for health reasons. If your implants need to be removed to correct a medical issue, such as implant rupture, Medicare may cover part of the total cost. You can ask any further questions about pricing during your initial appointment.

Recovery

Recovery After Breast Explant Surgery

Straight after your surgery, tubes may be placed in your incisions to drain any excess blood or fluid. You may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two.

Breast implant removal has a quick recovery compared to other breast procedures. However, you should make sure to take appropriate care of your body after surgery. This will help your incisions heal and reduce any scarring. The scars will fade over time, especially if you take proper care during the healing process, and your breast surgeon will give you instructions to help ensure your wounds heal properly. During recovery, you may be advised to:

  • Keep the incisions clean and dry
  • Avoid smoking
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Eat nutritious food
  • Refrain from strenuous tasks
  • Take time to rest and recover
  • Avoid underwire bras
  • Avoid lying on your side for a few days
  • Wear compression garments for two weeks

Patients who have implants removed will usually need less downtime than when they had their original breast surgery. Typically, you will only need to take one week off work. You should refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks while you allow your incisions and breasts to heal. Pain relief medication can help ease the healing process after breast explant surgery.

Procedure Risks & Complications

Every procedure comes with side effects and risks. If you are considering breast explant surgery, it is important to be aware of both the risks and benefits. This will help you make an informed decision. It is common to experience some mild side effects after your breast implant removal. These symptoms will usually fade as the breasts and incisions heal. Mild side effects can include:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain and discomfort
  • Additional scarring

Depending on how quickly your body heals, the swelling will take time to resolve. Your breast tissue will also gradually expand and assume a new shape in the absence of the implant. Whilst significant complications are rare, more severe side effects can include:

  • Infection and bleeding issues
  • Anaesthesia complications
  • Numbness in the breasts
  • Loss of nipple sensation
  • Skin discolouration
  • Ongoing pain
  • Damage to nerves and blood vessels
  • Loose or sagging skin around the breasts
  • Poor wound healing and scarring
  • Asymmetry in breast volume and shape
  • Asymmetry in nipple sensation
  • Prominent scars
  • Skin necrosis

It is important to follow your aftercare advice to reduce the risk of complications. As well as this, there are things you can do before breast explant surgery to optimise your results. This can include refraining from smoking, drinking plenty of water, and eating healthily. Dr Broadhurst in Brisbane uses trusted techniques to ensure risks are minimised for a great result. In the event that serious side effects occur, you should seek medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for breast explant surgery?

Ideal candidates for breast implant revision are typically women who are seeking to remove implants from a past surgery. This can be due to personal preference or to resolve complications. For example, some women remove their implants due to no longer wanting them. Whereas, others are seeking to correct problems such as capsule issues, pain, or implant rupture. We can discuss whether you are a good candidate during a consultation.

Will I need anaesthesia?

Yes, the procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia. It is normal to feel a little disoriented while the effects wear off. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights and should arrange for someone to drive them home.

How long does breast implant removal take?

The breast implant removal surgery itself should not take longer than one to two hours, but this can depend on the requirements of your specific surgery. Patients should expect the procedure to take up the whole day and should take time off work to ensure enough recovery time.

What happens after breast implant removal?

After the procedure, you will need to take time to rest. You will be given specific aftercare instructions to help you care for your incisions. You may be able to return to work after one week if your work does not require vigorous movement. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and exercise during the healing process to make sure their incisions and breast tissue heal properly.

Will I have scars afterwards?

Scarring is a normal consequence of breast implant removal surgery. Although your surgeon will take care to minimise scars, you can expect them to look slightly different from the scars that resulted from your initial breast surgery. These will fade over time, especially if you take proper care during the healing process.
You will also be provided with silicone gel that can be applied once our nurses have reviewed you at 2 weeks post surgery.

When will I see the final result?

Your body will need time to heal from your breast implant removal. Your breasts may appear larger in size than you expected due to the swelling; however, this will be a temporary effect. Due to the gradual nature of the healing process, it may take six to nine months to see the full results of your breast explant surgery.

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Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am – 4:30pm

Tuesday 8:30am – 5:30pm

Wednesday 8:30am – 4:30pm

Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm

Friday 8:30am – 3:00pm

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

Level 1 / 4 Kyabra Street ,
Newstead, QLD, 4006, Australia Map Link

(07) 3252 8884

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