Silicone Breast Implant Removal With Breast Lift
Schedule a ConsultationSome women may want or need to remove their breast implants for a variety of reasons. Dr. Ip offers silicone breast implant removal surgery in conjunction with a breast lift. Silicone breast implant removal surgery can lead to loose skin and a low nipple / areolar position. When a breast lift is done in conjunction with silicone breast implant removal, the breast tissue and skin are tightened and the nipple / areolar are moved to a more youthful position. In addition, the circumference of the nipple/areolar complex can be made smaller.
Candidates
Patients who wish to remove their breast implants and want to improve the appearance of their nipples and bust can be ideal candidates for this procedure. During your consultation, your surgeon conducts an examination and discusses your concerns and goals. This helps the surgeon determine the best plan of action to achieve your desired results.
Approaches
There are four types of breast lifts that can be done along with the silicone breast implant removal. The incision options all depend on your preferred outcome and the issues being addressed.
Breast Lift Incision Options
Silicone Breast Implant Removal with Anchor (Inverted T) Breast Lift
With this method, the incisions are made around the outer edges of the areola, which is the darker skin surrounding the nipple. These incisions extend vertically toward the lower breast and across the inframammary crease, where the breast meets the chest. Anchor incisions are typically recommended for severe to moderate cases that require significant removal of excess skin and tissue, as they allow greater access to the underlying breast tissue.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal with Vertical Breast Lift
The vertical approach makes incisions around the outer edge of the areola and extends vertically to the lower breast tissue. Moderate cases of sagging can benefit from this technique.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal with Donut Breast Lift
The donut incision is created around the outer edges of the areola for mild to moderate cases of breast sagging.
Silicone Breast Implant Removal with Crescent Breast Lift
Mild cases of sagging can utilize the crescent incision method, which makes incisions along the top portion of the areolar edges in a c-shape.
Nipple-Areola Repositioning
Moderate to severe breast sagging can sometimes cause the nipple and areolas to point downward or become asymmetrical. By resizing and reshaping this portion of the breasts, excess skin and tissue are removed, and the nipples and areolas can be improved for a more natural, youthful appearance.
Surgical Process
Pre-operative
Many patients fill their prescription medications and prepare a relaxing area in which to recover before undergoing surgery. Scheduling someone to care for you and any tasks that you will be unable to perform for the first few days can help tremendously during your healing process. Have plenty of healthy food options, water, comfortable pillows, and entertainment to keep you occupied while you recuperate, such as magazines, books, electronic devices, and chargers, cables, or extra batteries.
Your Procedure
Silicone breast implant removal with lift usually takes between one and three hours to complete. The extent of corrections being made will determine the length of time needed to accomplish these goals. Patients are commonly given general anesthesia for a comfortable, safe procedure. Implants may be deflated before making incisions if they are made of saline. Implants are removed, through the original incisions if possible. The desired additional procedures are performed, and excess skin and tissue are removed. Breasts are lifted to a new position, and sutures are used to close the incisions.
Recovery
You may feel discomfort and be asked to wear compression garments or a surgical support bra to promote healing for the first few days. Bruising and swelling can be expected and should reduce after approximately three days. Physical activities or strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks, or until cleared by your surgeon. Post-operative care instructions are provided and should be followed carefully. Most patients feel comfortable resuming their daily activities and work after one or two weeks.
Before & After
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I an ideal candidate for silicone breast implant removal with lift?
Healthy patients who wish to remove their breast implants and improve the position of their breasts may benefit from this procedure. Dr. Ip examines every patient’s medical history, breast condition, and skin type and discusses their goals to make an assessment and provide recommendations.
What is BIA-ALCL, and should it be a concern?
BIA-ALCL is Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and is a very rare risk associated with breast implants. This lymphoma has been reported in some patients who have undergone breast augmentation with textured implants. If detected early, it is curable for most patients. You can discuss BIA-ALCL with your surgeon if you have concerns regarding your implants.
Can implants cause Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
While many women with breast implants have self-identified and reported many symptoms that are now being referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII), there is no diagnostic testing available yet and no conclusive evidence that silicone breast implants are the cause of these symptoms. Many of the reported symptoms are also indicative of other health issues. If you have any questions or concerns about BII, please discuss them with Dr. Ip during your consultation, and he will inform you of all your options.
What results can I expect?
The breast implants are removed, and the breasts are positioned higher for an enhanced breast contour. After silicone breast implant removal with lift, many patients enjoy their symmetrical, natural breasts.
Can health insurance cover my procedure?
Silicone breast implant removal with lift is usually not covered by insurance. If the reason for your procedure is medical, such as cancer-related, then your insurance policy may provide some coverage for the surgery. Please discuss your coverage details with your health insurance provider to learn what your plan includes.