Women get breast implants for many different reasons. Some are looking for a confidence boost, others may have had surgery and want a correction. There also comes a time in the life of some of these women when they decide to have the implants removed. The reasons for this can be medical issues, personal choices, or changing views on health and beauty.
Knowing what to expect can help ease any worries you might have. It’s important to understand not just the surgery but also the steps before and after it. In this article, we will go over what it’s like to have breast implant removal surgery.
1 – Preparing for surgery
Getting ready for breast implant removal surgery involves a few key steps. First, you’ll have a detailed talk with a plastic surgeon. During this visit, you’ll discuss what you want from the surgery. The surgeon will also check your medical history and past surgeries to see if you’re a good candidate. This is a great time to ask any questions to your doctor such as breast implant removal surgeon, Dr. Brandon Ball.
Before the surgery, you’ll need some health tests to make sure you’re fit for the procedure. These might include blood tests and scans to check your overall health and the condition of your implants.
Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to prepare. You might need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding. If you smoke, you’ll likely be asked to quit. You will probably need to fast for a certain time before the surgery, especially if you will be under general anesthesia.
2 – The surgical procedure
Breast implant removal surgery can be done in a few different ways, depending on your situation.
In a simple removal, called explantation, the surgeon makes a cut, usually where the original implant surgery was done. They then carefully take out the implants. This method is straightforward and works well if there are no complications.
The surgery usually takes one to three hours, depending on how complex it is. You will be under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep and won’t feel anything. After the surgery, you will go to a recovery area where medical staff will watch over you as you wake up from the anesthesia.
3 – Post surgery
After the surgery, you will have to recover, which happens in several steps. Right after the surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery room where medical staff will watch over you as the anesthesia wears off. You might feel sleepy and have some pain, which is normal. There may be swelling and discomfort for the first few days, but your surgeon will give you medication to help with this.
During the first week, avoid lifting heavy things or doing anything strenuous. Gentle walking can help with blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots. Keep your upper body elevated, even when sleeping, to help reduce swelling.
