MED0001176356 This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+.

Changes to AHPRA regulations from 1st July 2023. Call 07 3252 8884 for more information. All surgery contains risks, read more here

Breast Implant Removal Brisbane

Request a Consultation

Jump to Section
Consultation
Procedure
B&A Gallery
Recovery
FAQs

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 patients choose to have breast explant surgery, whether for aesthetic or medical reasons. Usually, patients choose to remove breast implants if they’re causing symptoms or complications; 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 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.

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 body.”

Meet Dr Broadhurst

Consultation

Your Initial Consultation

Due to the personal nature of breast implant removal, Dr Broadhurst will ask questions about your medical history and past breast surgeries during your initial consultation. You will also need to discuss your reasons for wanting breast explant surgery.

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 treatment plan for your body anatomy, as well as what to expect after the surgery and during the recovery stage.

Your Second Consultation

Your second consultation will be face-to-face at one of our Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, or Bundaberg locations. Dr Broadhurst will provide information about whichever surgery option is suitable for 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 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. Patients may opt to have their implants removed and not replaced. In some cases, the implant and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) will be removed. Depending on your concerns, this process can help change the shape, size, or position of the breasts and address issues from past surgery.

Incision and scarring

Generally, implant removal surgery typically involves making an incision in the breast crease. The visibility of the scars will depend on your body’s healing process, and the resulting scar may look slightly different from the one after the previous breast procedure.

Breast implant removal without replacement

Breast implant removal without replacement is a surgical procedure where the implants are taken out without inserting new ones. This procedure may be chosen for various reasons, such as complications, personal preference, or health concerns. During the surgery, the surgeon will remove the implants and may also perform a capsulectomy or en bloc to remove the scar tissue around the implants.

Breast explant surgery with a lift and skin tightening

As breast implants cause the breast to stretch, your breast surgeon may also suggest a breast lift (mastopexy) at the same time as implant removal. This will include a lift to correct the descending breast skin, elevating the nipple and areola.

Breast implant removal with replacement

Patients may 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 ten years. This process involves removing the implants, tightening the skin in some cases, and finally, insertion of new implants.

Read more information about Implant Removal & Replacement

Learn More

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in Brisbane?

Breast explant surgery is an in-depth process that is different for every patient, so 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 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

The recovery period for breast implant removal will vary from patient to patient. This will depend on the extent of the procedure and individual healing capacity. However, you should make sure to take care of your body after surgery to promote the healing of the incisions and minimise scar visibility. 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.

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 address discomfort 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 side effects after breast implant removal. These symptoms will usually resolve as the breasts and incisions heal. They include the following:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain and discomfort
  • Additional scarring

Depending on how your body heals, the swelling will take time to resolve, and your breast tissue will gradually expand and assume a new shape in the absence of the implant. Although 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
  • Descending skin around the breasts
  • Poor wound healing and scarring
  • Asymmetry in breast volume and shape
  • Asymmetry in nipple sensation
  • Prominent scars
  • Skin necrosis
  • Asymmetry in nipple position
  • Asymmetry in scar position
  • DVT/PE (blood clots)
  • Death

It is important to follow your aftercare advice to reduce the risk of complications. In addition, there are things you can do before breast explant surgery. This can include refraining from smoking, drinking plenty of water, and eating healthily. If serious side effects occur, you should seek medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for breast explant surgery?

Suitable candidates for breast implant revision are patients who are seeking to remove implants from a past surgery. This can be due to personal preference or to resolve complications. For example, some patients choose to remove their implants because they no longer want them, while others are seeking to correct problems such as capsule issues, pain, or implant rupture.

Will I need anaesthesia?

Yes, the procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia. It is expected 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 can take one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Patients 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 job 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?

After having breast implant removal surgery, it is normal to have scarring. These scars will lighten over time as they undergo the maturation process. You will also be given silicone gel to apply once our nurses have assessed you at the 2-week post-surgery mark.

When will I see the final result?

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

Contact Us

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

Have a Question?

Please fill out our form below and one of our helpful staff will be in touch with you shortly.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Call Us
Book Now