Breast Implant Removal
Breast Implant Removal in Encino, CA
Women’s needs and desires evolve over time, and sometimes that means making changes to their bodies. For those who have had breast implants and are considering having them removed, it’s essential to have a skilled expert like board-certified Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Bresnick to ensure a safe and effective procedure.
Perhaps your implants are causing discomfort or pain, or maybe you’re seeking a more natural appearance and wish to restore your original breast size. Whatever your reason for considering breast implant removal, Dr. Bresnick can help you achieve your desired outcome while maintaining your feminine figure.
In rare instances, breast implant removal may be necessary to address medical issues. These can include leaks or ruptures of the implant, a condition known as capsular contracture, where the tissue surrounding the implant hardens and thickens, or, very rarely, a type of lymphoma associated with certain textured implants (BIA-ALCL).
Before and After
All breast procedures performed by Stephen Bresnick, M.D.
View GalleryUnderstanding the Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Depending on the reason for the removal, breast implant removal may include the removal of the tissue surrounding the implant, called a “capsule.” The formation of a capsule around the implant is the body’s normal response to an implant; however, this scar tissue can harden and become painful or disfiguring. Removing the tissue capsule along with the implant creates a clean pocket that can be left to heal and close, or that can be filled later in an implant replacement procedure.
Simple breast implant removal: In some cases, the implants are simply removed, without touching the surrounding tissue. This might be done when the implants are intact and have caused no reaction in the breast tissue, but you simply want them removed for personal reasons. Sometimes implants can be removed with the capsule and no life is required.
Breast implant removal with breast lift: In many cases, breast implant removal is combined with a breast lift to restore a natural-looking shape to the breasts after their volume is reduced. Without a breast lift, implant removal can result in sagging. In the breast lift, excess skin is removed so breasts can take on a raised and more attractive shape.
Personal Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Every woman has one or more reasons for considering breast implant removal. Some common personal concerns include:
- Discomfort or pain caused by the implants
- Natural enlargement of breast size over time, which may be associated with aging or weight gain
- A desire for a sleeker and more natural figure
- Shifting of the implants, resulting in a mismatch in breast appearance
Medical Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several health and medical concerns that may lead to the recommendation of breast implant removal:
- Capsular contracture, indicated by thickening and hardening of the tissue capsule
- Rupture or failure of the implant
- Infection in or around the implant
- Interference with mammography imaging, especially if there is a high risk of breast cancer due to family history or genetic factors
- Indications of BIA-ALCL, a form of lymphoma associated with specific textured implants (as announced by the FDA in 2019)