In some cases, after breast augmentation, a patient may choose to have her implants removed or exchanged for others. plastic surgeon Dr. Lisa Bootstaylor of Body Esthetics in Georgia provides options for breast implant removal and exchange to provide you a customized look and complete satisfaction. Our team of experts provide comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for patients residing in the metro Atlanta area and surrounding communities in Georgia.
What are some reasons for Breast Implant Removal?
There are many reasons why women may choose to exchange or remove breast implants following a breast augmentation procedure. These may include changes resulting from the aging process or weight fluctuations that may have altered the outcome of your original procedure. Hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy or menopause may also affect your results over time. In rare cases, complications from breast augmentation may also call for revision surgery, such as implants that shift or rupture, or cases of capsular contracture, a condition that makes the breasts feel hard to the touch. You may also consider exchanging your silicone implants for saline implants or vice versa. Or you may simply wish to change the size or shape of your breasts by trying implants of a different size or shape. Occasionally, women may choose to have their implants removed altogether; however, in those cases, a breast lift may be recommended to tighten, and firm stretched skin tissue.
How should I prepare for Breast Implant Removal?
Dr. Bootstaylor will evaluate your medical history as well as your condition and any medications you may be taking during your initial consultation and advise you if you should make any changes to your routine prior to surgery. She may recommend that you suspend certain medications that may be interfere with surgical procedures.
How is the Breast Implant Removal procedure performed?
Implant removal is a simple surgical procedure that typically requires general anesthesia and takes about two hours to complete unless the patient is combining the implant removal with another procedure such as a breast lift. To remove the implants, Dr. Bootstaylor will use the same incisions created during the original breast augmentation procedure in order to keep scars to a minimum. The most common methods of performing breast implant removal include: open capsulectomy with breast implant replacement using saline filled implants, open capsulectomy with breast implant replacement using silicone gel-filled implants, open capsulotomy with breast implant replacement using saline filled implants, or open capsulotomy with breast implant replacement using silicone gel-filled implants. Dr. Bootstaylor will help you determine which method is best for you.
Dr. Bootstaylor performs surgical procedures at Emory University Hospital Midtown and Northside Hospital.
How long does it take to heal from Implant Removal?
You will need to rest for at least two full days with no physical activity, and it is normal to experience some tenderness and swelling around the incision sites, but taking pain medication may easily relieve this. We recommend resting properly for at least two full weeks before returning to work or normal activities. You will also be required to wear a compressive support bra with adjustable straps to support the delicate breast tissue, protect the area from impact or injury, and help the muscles adapt to your new contour. You will have to wear the support bra and avoid strenuous physical activity for a period of at least three to four weeks, restricting movement of the upper body, lifting, or any strenuous physical activity. After about six weeks, you can resume normal activities, including sexual activity.
Our office boasts a team of experts passionately committed to making you look and feel your best. Using the latest and most advanced procedures for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, our team, led by plastic surgeon Dr. Lisa Bootstaylor, provides comprehensive plastic surgery, including procedures such as breast implant removal, while emphasizing overall health and wellness. Our practice proudly serves residents of the metro Atlanta area and surrounding communities in Georgia. Contact us today!