Breast Implant Removal and Capsulectomy

About the Procedure

Breast implant removal and capsulectomy is a procedure where Dr. Hirsch, explant surgeon in Los Angeles, will remove the breast implants and the capsule without performing a breast lift. This procedure results in much less scarring than an implant removal with a breast lift, and also has a lower risk of changing nipple sensation.

Breast implant removal and capsulectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, but in certain circumstances it may be possible to remove the implant under local anesthesia only.

Frequently Asked Questions
About Breast Implant Removal and Capsulectomy in Los Angeles

Who is a candidate for breast implant and capsulectomy?

During breast implant removal and capsulectomy, Dr. Hirsch will remove the implants and their associated capsules (scar tissue that forms around the implants). Because no breast lift is performed, the areola position cannot be changed and there is limited reshaping of the breasts that can be performed. The best candidates for explant surgery without a lift are patients who have good skin tone so that the skin will bounce back quickly after the implant is removed. Often, this means that the patient has may not have had children or may have only had the implants for a short time. Patients with smaller breast implant volume with little or no saggy skin are ideal candidates for this procedure as well

What incision is used for implant removal and capsulectomy?

The most common incision used for implant removal and capsulectomy is in the inframammary location under the breast, although an incision under or around the areola can be used as well. For Sherman Oaks explant patients who undergo implant removal and total capsulectomy, the incision size is relatively short, often slightly longer than an existing inframammary scar. For patients who undergo breast implant removal and en bloc capsulectomy, the incision is significantly longer. Click here to learn more about total vs. en bloc capsulectomy

What is recovery like after breast implant removal and capsulectomy?

Most breast implant removal and capsulectomy procedure take around 1.5-2 hours. Patients typically go home after the surgery. Because removing an implant creates an open space in the body where the implant used to be, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hirsch will usually use a surgical drain for a week or so after surgery to limit fluid build up in the breast. Patients should avoid significant physical activity while the drains are present and use post operative compression garments as instructed by Dr. Hirsch and his staff. Once the drains are removed, patients are usually able to resume their physical activities by 4-6 weeks after surgery.