Breast augmentation has long been one of the most popular and sought-after cosmetic surgeries, and its popularity shows no signs of dwindling. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) report on the insights and trends of cosmetic procedures in 2022, the breast augmentation procedure was the third most popular surgical procedure sought after by patients.
Some patients opt to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, such as health concerns, discomfort and/or aesthetics. Removing implants calls for a breast implant removal procedure, also known as breast explant surgery. In 2020, over 35,000 breast explant surgeries were performed in the U.S.
Sadly, a persistent myth prevents women from enjoying the benefits of this procedure. Some patients erroneously believe that surgeons must receive specialized training to perform breast explant surgery above and beyond their pre-existing qualifications.
The truth is, any board-certified plastic surgeon is capable of performing breast implant removal surgery. A board-certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training in breast surgery, such as Dr. William J. Vinyard, MD, FACS, is especially skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable about this procedure and can effectively and safely remove breast implants.
If you are considering breast implant removal surgery, Dr. Vinyard and his team of experts have compiled everything you need to know before your procedure.
What is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Breast implant removal surgery varies considerably according to each specific case and each patient’s needs. For most patients, it entails breast implant removal and the elimination of scar tissue around the implants, called capsules. In most cases, the scar tissue can be removed simultaneously, which is termed an “En bloc capsulectomy.” Each patient’s journey will be unique, and it is essential to consult a qualified plastic surgeon to ensure the best possible experience!
Why Do Patients Undergo Breast Explant Surgery?
Various factors can contribute to a patient’s decision to get their breast implants removed.
One of the most common reasons for an explant surgery is a patient’s concern about breast implant illness (BII), a condition typified by chronic fatigue, skin rashes, joint and muscle pain, memory and concentration issues, and more. The symptoms of breast implant illness are various, and its causes are not yet fully understood. Some researchers hypothesize that it may result from an autoimmune response or postoperative bacterial infection. However, it must be noted that there is currently no clinical research supporting the correlation between breast implants and the aforementioned symptoms, nor any evidence to support that removing breast implants will alleviate those symptoms.
A rare complication that can lead to the necessity of having implants removed is capsular contracture. When the body encounters a foreign object, such as breast implants, it isolates the object by surrounding it with scar tissue. In this instance, a breast capsule is created. For most patients, the breast capsule assists by keeping the implant in place, but in some rare cases, the body creates fibrous scar tissue that can compact around the implants, leading to painful scar tissue and aesthetic concerns. Surgical intervention then becomes necessary to remove the scar tissue and the silicone material that can exacerbate the discomfort.
While picking up a few extra pounds will not affect your breast augmentation surgery results, more significant weight gain can lead to undesirable aesthetic outcomes. Even if this weight is subsequently lost, excess skin can obscure the appearance and shape of breast implants.
Similarly, changes in preference and taste can be the impetus for breast explant surgery. Whether someone wants smaller or larger implants or even prefers the look of their natural breasts prior to augmentation, it is possible to alter the appearance of their bosom safely with this procedure.
Lastly, implant leaks or ruptures call for removing implants and scar tissue to protect the surrounding breast tissue. Extreme blunt-force trauma or the effects of implant aging can cause an implant rupture and lead to complications such as pain, discomfort, and disfigurement. Implant ruptures and leaks are often detected through exploratory means such as an ultrasound.
Regardless of your reasons for wanting your implants removed, consulting with an appropriately skilled and qualified plastic surgeon is essential.
Breast Explant Surgery Recovery
You may be given prescription medications during your initial recovery phase to help you cope with any post-surgical pain or discomfort once the anesthesia wears off.
Before being sent home, you will receive in-depth instructions from Dr. Vinyard and his team of experts to follow. In most cases, drains will be placed to remove excess fluids and prevent possible complications. These drains are typically removed approximately one week after surgery.
Avoid strenuous activities while your body recovers from the removal of implants and scar tissue and until you are cleared to resume normal activities. Some patients may experience discomfort and tenderness for up to six weeks following the procedure.
Can Every Plastic Surgeon Perform a Breast Explant Surgery?
Any board-certified plastic surgeon is qualified to carry out a breast explant procedure. Contrary to popular belief, no additional training is required since the standards and training required to become board-certified are stringent and adequate.
What Credentials Qualify Dr. Vinyard As a Breast Explant Surgeon?
Dr. William J. Vinyard, MD, FACS, is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience. He is one of the few surgeons to complete four full surgical training programs, namely General Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Advanced Breast Reconstructive Surgery, and Aesthetic Surgery.
Dr. Vinyard has also received specialty training through the Advanced Breast and Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship in Birmingham, AL, equipping him with the skills and know-how to perform a wide range of aesthetic breast procedures effectively and safely.
Since 2011, Dr. Vinyard has been certified by and is a member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, as well as a member of nine different medical associations. In addition, Dr. Vinyard has touched the lives of many a patient, with numerous reviews to prove it:
- “I have to say Dr. Vinyard and his staff exceeded my expectations. Since my 1st consultation, everyone has been friendly & hands-on in helping. Dr. Vinyard will take his time with you and will make you feel comfortable. He is an excellent surgeon, and I couldn’t be happier with my results.”
- “I CANT WAIT TO SEE DR VINYARD FOR MY POST-OP!!!! I want to high-five him! lol no seriously though, this entire experience exceeded my expectations by 1 million! I was so nervous and so excited at the same time; everything came out wonderfully and I highly recommend him!!!! I will scream it from every social media platform I have, and I’ve already told so many people … you must go see him and his staff; they are all fantastic!!!! And more so the mastery of his craft! I have been researching my procedure for about 6 years now. Dr. Vinyard was the first one I went to and the last one I went to! He and his team just checked every box and exceeded my expectations of what this should have been or could have been! Dr. Vinyard and the VIPS Team THANK YOU! Keep doing what you do!!!”
Start Your Breast Implant Removal Journey at VIPS!
Contact us to schedule a personal consultation, or call (772) 362-3357 to find out the next steps in your aesthetic journey! Our office at 291 NW Peacock Blvd, Suite 103, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986, proudly serves the South Florida area! We also invite you to check out our blog page and social media to learn more about the treatment options available at our office!
