The team at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) comprises board-certified oncoplastic surgeons with specialised training and expertise in breast surgery, including breast implant removal. Each surgeon possesses extensive qualifications and experience in performing a wide range of breast procedures, ensuring comprehensive care and optimal outcomes for patients undergoing breast implant removal surgery. With a commitment to patient safety, satisfaction, and continued education in the field of breast surgery, the BBG team provides expert care tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of each patient seeking breast implant removal.
Treatments - Cosmetic
Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing breast implants and, if necessary, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) from the breast. While breast augmentation with implants is a popular procedure to enhance breast size and shape, you may choose to undergo implant removal for various reasons, such as dissatisfaction with the implants, complications, changes in lifestyle, or concerns about implant-related health risks.
At a Glance
Treatment time:
2.5 hours
Anaesthetic:
General anaesthetic
Return to work:
2 weeks
Duration:
Long term results
Final results:
Implants removed / exchanged
About This Treatment
The surgical technique used for breast implant removal depends on various factors, including the type of implants, the presence of scar tissue (capsule), and your aesthetic goals.
In straightforward cases where the implants are intact and there is minimal scar tissue, a simple removal procedure may suffice. This involves making an incision along the original scar line, removing the implants, and closing the incisions with sutures.
However, if there are complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture, additional steps may be necessary. In cases of capsular contracture, your surgeon may perform a capsulectomy, which involves removing the scar tissue surrounding the implant to alleviate symptoms and ensure optimal healing. If an implant is ruptured, your surgeon may carefully remove the ruptured implant and any silicone or saline leakage before addressing the surrounding capsule.
The expected results following breast implant removal surgery vary depending on your unique circumstances and goals. In general, you can expect a reduction in breast size and volume following implant removal. The breasts may appear deflated initially, but over time, they will gradually regain their natural shape and contour.
Recovery from breast implant removal surgery typically involves a period of downtime to allow for healing. You may experience temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and proper post-operative care. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely to minimise complications and promote optimal healing.
In cases where capsular contracture or other complications are present, a capsulectomy may be performed during breast implant removal surgery. Capsulectomy involves removing the scar tissue (capsule) that has formed around the breast implant. This helps alleviate symptoms such as pain, tightness, and distortion of breast shape, while also reducing the risk of recurrent complications.
Another consideration for breast implant removal is the risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare type of cancer associated with textured breast implants. While the overall risk of developing BIA-ALCL is low, you may choose to have your implants removed as a precautionary measure, particularly if you experience symptoms such as swelling, pain, or lumps around the implant.
Following breast implant removal, you may have the option to undergo revision surgery or have new implants inserted if desired. Revision surgery can address any residual concerns, such as asymmetry, excess skin, or changes in breast shape. Additionally, you may choose to replace the old implants with new ones to achieve the desired breast size and shape.
In conclusion, breast implant removal surgery provides an opportunity to restore comfort, confidence, and peace of mind. Whether motivated by aesthetic preferences, concerns about complications, or the desire for a healthier lifestyle, this procedure can help you achieve your desired breast appearance while addressing any underlying issues related to breast implants. By consulting with one of BBG’s qualified oncoplastic surgeons, you can explore the options and make an informed decision about breast implant removal surgery and its potential outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Suitable candidates for breast implant removal are individuals who are dissatisfied with their current implants, experiencing complications, or have concerns about their long-term safety. Candidates may include those with capsular contracture, implant rupture, asymmetry, or changes in aesthetic preferences. Additionally, individuals who no longer wish to have implants due to lifestyle changes or concerns about implant-related health risks may also be suitable candidates. It’s important for candidates to be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and discuss their concerns with a qualified oncoplastic surgeon to determine if breast implant removal is the right option for them.
Following breast implant removal, patients may experience temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which typically subside within a few weeks. Scarring is inevitable, but can be minimised with proper care and often fades over time. In less common cases, complications such as infection, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, or impaired wound healing may occur. Additionally, some individuals may experience emotional adjustments as their breast size and shape change. However, with proper post-operative care and regular follow-up appointments, most patients can expect a smooth recovery and satisfactory outcomes.
Following breast implant removal, downtime typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks, during which patients should avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects. Most individuals can return to light activities, such as desk work, within a week, depending on their healing progress. However, it’s recommended to refrain from driving until off pain medication and able to move comfortably. Returning to the gym and vigorous exercise should be delayed for about 4 to 6 weeks, allowing the body to heal fully. Patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery process.
How much does Breast Implant Removal cost at Birmingham Breast Group?
As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.
Initial consultation
please enquire
All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.
Surgery costs from
based on consultation
Each procedure has its own personalised treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Related Treatments
Breast Implant Removal
Our Specialist Team
Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.
BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS
Naren Basu
Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD
Daniel Henderson
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)
Ms Salena Bains
Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
Consultant Clinical oncologist
Dr James Good
PhD, FRCR
BSc, PhD, FRCP
Professor Daniel Rea
Professor of Medical Oncology
MRCP, FRCR
Dr Sara Meade
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR
Dr Faisal Majid
Consultant Radiologist
MSc, PhD, FRCPath
Dr Abeer Shaaban
Path Consultant Pathologist
Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath
Dr Rachna Awasthi
Path Consultant Pathologist
Dawn Larkin
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
Ruth Tracey
Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant
Dr Nadia Alishah
Job Title Here
Qualifications Here
Gill Farrington
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
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