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Breast Implant Reductions and Removals: Essential Information

By: Oklahoma Plastic Surgeons

One of the most widely performed procedures today is breast augmentation. However, despite their popularity, they might come up with some complications or preferences where individuals may remove them, or downsize them. Whether the goal is breast reduction from D to B or to eliminate the implants, it is important to understand the process. 

Typically, the breast implant removal procedure involves surgically taking out or sometimes even replacing breast implants. Regardless of the motivation, let’s understand the impact of this choice on both aesthetics and overall health.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal or Reduction

While breast reduction with implants, or removal stays a deeply personal decision, the following are some of the most common reasons why women may seek them. 

  • A replacement with the latest generation of implants or more advanced materials. 
  • Aiming to get a more natural look and shifting desire from the enhanced breast size. 
  • Medical complications with the implant such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or infection. 
  • Concerns about rare conditions like Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
  • Noticing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII), which could be due to the implants. 
  • The change in breast shape due to pregnancy or weight loss. 
  • Inspiration from celebrities who might have gotten their implants removed. 
  • Changes in personal life or aesthetics may reduce the desire for breast implants.  
  • Need for a more proportionate or symmetrical breast appearance.  
  • The need to address issues with stretched or distorted breast tissue due to breast implants. 
  • Seeking relief from pain or discomfort associated with the implants.
  • Low self-esteem and body image due to being in natural form. 
  • Breast implants may interfere with breast health monitoring and removing them helps. 
  • Wishing to avoid future complications or risks that may arise from long-term implant use.
  • Hormonal imbalances may affect the overall comfort or look of implants. 

The Benefits

Removing or downsizing implants can bring several benefits that may encourage individuals to consider these procedures. Downsizing implants before and after can relieve these issues.  Let’s talk about it in detail ahead. 

Improved Physical Comfort

The relief from physical discomfort is one of the most immediate benefits of both breast implant removal and reduction. Women who have larger implants may experience strain on their neck, back, and shoulders. 

This happens when the implants are too heavy for their frame.

Breast implants smaller than what was previously selected can help alleviate this discomfort. Moreover, with conditions like capsular contracture, the scar tissue around the implant tightens painfully, and this can be resolved through removal. 

Plus, individuals may also feel greater ease in everyday activities and physical movements.  They would be noticeably more comfortable during exercising or even with simple tasks like sleeping. With smooth recovery, many experience a significant improvement in mobility and overall comfort within a few weeks.

Boost in Self-Image and Confidence

For many, choosing to have breast reduction with implants or full removal can lead to improved self-esteem. When individuals grow older or experience changes in their lifestyle, the appearance of enhanced breasts may no longer align with their body image.

On the other hand, implants that cause issues, such as asymmetry, might leave some feeling dissatisfied with their appearance. By opting for smaller implants, such as B cup breast implants, or by removing them altogether, women can often obtain a natural silhouette that feels more like themselves. A change as such leads to a confidence boost with many feeling more comfortable in their own skin and fashion choices.

Reduced Risk of Health Complications

As with all cosmetic procedures, breast implants also come with their risks. 

One of the most significant benefits of implant removal or reduction is the lower likelihood of complications like rupture, leakage, or scar tissue formation around the implant.

For example, individuals with textured implants are at a slight risk of developing Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare form of cancer. Removing the implants can effectively eliminate this risk. 

Moreover, downsizing or removing the implants can help reduce potential symptoms related to Breast Implant Illness (BII), which includes fatigue, joint pain, and other systemic issues. Without implants, it is easier to monitor breast health, as it helps with getting clearer mammograms, leading to more accurate and potentially early detection of any issues.

Cost Savings and Long-term Maintenance

Typically, breast implants may require replacement every 10-15 years and are not a one-time investment.  Ongoing maintenance leads to significant long-term expenses, and some may not be up for such a commitment. For those who are considering how to reduce cup size from D to B, this decision can save not only on surgical costs but also on long-term care, as smaller or no implants are generally easier to maintain over time.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

Breast implant removal or reduction surgery involves several stages, from pre-surgical preparation to postoperative recovery. Here’s what to expect:

Pre-Surgery Consultation

Before your surgery, you will meet with your plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will:

  • Examine your breasts: This includes evaluating the condition of the skin and any changes in breast shape or implant position.
  • Take photographs: These images are used to plan the procedure and document before-and-after results, especially if you are considering downsizing implants.
  • Review medical history: Your surgeon will ask about any medical conditions, prior surgeries, and medications you are currently taking.
  • Discuss recommendations and options: Based on your goals, your surgeon will offer recommendations, which may include replacing breast implants with smaller ones or opting for a complete breast reduction with implants.
  • Discuss risks and complications: It is important to have a clear understanding of potential risks, including infection, scarring, or complications from anesthesia.
  • Surgery Preparation Instructions: You will also receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. This will likely include guidelines on fasting, bathing, and what to wear on the day of surgery.

The Procedure Steps

Anesthesia

The surgery typically involves general anesthesia, which keeps you asleep throughout the procedure. Your medical team will provide medications to manage pain and nausea after the surgery.

Skin Preparation

Antibacterial cleansers are applied to your breast area to minimize the risk of infection. This ensures that the surgical sites are clean and ready for the incisions.

Incision

The surgeon makes an incision based on your previous implant placement and your specific surgical goals. Common incision sites include:

  • Under the breast (inframammary fold)
  • Around the areola (periareolar)
  • Along the previous scar line, especially if you are having a replacement

The incision type is selected with consideration for minimizing visible scarring and accessing the implant safely.

Removal of Implant and Capsule

Once the incision is made, your surgeon will access the breast implant. If there is capsular contracture or significant scar tissue, the surgeon may perform a capsulectomy, where they remove the scar tissue capsule that forms around the implant. In other cases, only the implant will be removed, and the capsule will be left intact.

Implant Replacement or Adjustment

If your goal is to reduce cup size from D to B, the surgeon will remove the current implants, potentially replacing them with B cup breast implants. If you are opting for complete removal without replacement, the surgeon will ensure the breast tissue is reshaped for a natural look post-surgery.

Closure of Incisions

Once the implants and any necessary tissues have been removed or adjusted, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures or surgical glue. You may also have drains placed under your skin to prevent the build-up of fluid, which helps reduce swelling and promotes healing.

Post-Surgery Recovery

After the surgery, you will be closely monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. Nurses on duty will check your vital signs and make sure you stay comfortable. Before leaving the clinic, you will receive recovery instructions, including: 

  • How to take care of incision wounds and avoid infection.
  • Medication for pain and discomfort management during the initial healing phase. 
  • Guidelines on when you can resume physical activities like exercising or lifting heavy objects.

You will need someone to drive you home and assist you in the first few days post-surgery. Depending on the extent of your surgery, recovery time can vary, but most patients return to light activities within one to two weeks. Full recovery, including swelling reduction and final breast appearance, typically takes a few months.

In case of any persistent pain or swelling beyond a few weeks, or if you experience unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately. 

Surgeries That Can Be Paired with Breast Implant Removal

To further enhance your look and to make it match your aesthetics, you can also pair your breast removal or reduction surgery with the following procedures.  

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

When breast implants are taken out, they may lead to skin sagging. A mastopexy, also commonly known as a breast lift can help contour the breast by removing the excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue — leading to a firmer and elevated appearance.  This also helps achieve a more natural look with downsizing implants before and after. 

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

The procedure targets the abdominal area by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles, resulting in a flatter stomach. When combined with breast implant removal or reduction, a tummy tuck not only improves the midsection but also provides a harmonious balance to the body, creating a more proportionate silhouette that complements the transition to smaller breast implants, like full C breast implants.

Facelift

When seeking a complete transformation while undergoing breast implant removal, a facelift can be a great complementary procedure. This surgery addresses signs of aging by tightening the skin and underlying structures of the face and neck, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Injectable Breast Enlargement

Some patients may want to explore alternatives such as injectable breast enlargement if they are looking for temporary enhancements. This option allows women to achieve fuller breasts without undergoing a full surgical procedure. However, this method differs significantly from traditional breast implants, as it involves injections that can provide a temporary boost in volume. 

You can discuss all options with your surgeon to ensure you are making an informed decision that aligns with your goals for breast aesthetics and health.

Conclusion

Whether your goal is how to reduce your cup size from D to B, or to eliminate your breast implants, this article aims to provide valuable insights that can help you make an informed and confident decision. By understanding the various options available, you can take a step forward that aligns perfectly with your personal preferences and aesthetic goals.

Body contouring procedures represent a significant transformation, and having the expertise of professionals from Oklahoma Plastic Surgeons ensures that you receive personalized guidance and recommendations.

Their expert consultation gives you the peace of mind that you are making the best choice for your unique body and desired outcome. Book a consultation now: https://clintonwebstermd.com/.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.