BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL
DR. EFFIE POLITIS
TAMPA, FL
WHAT IS A BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL?
A Breast Implant Removal, or Explant, is a surgical procedure done to remove breast implants from breast augmentation or breast reconstruction patients. Depending on the condition and type of implants, there may also need to be removal of any silicone material leak and breast capsules, which are the scar tissues that form after the placement of a breast implant.
breast implant removal
THE WHAT
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE?
A candidate for this procedure is anyone who has breast implants.
THE HOW
breast implant removal
HOW IT'S DONE:
This procedure is done in the OR under general anesthesia. Dr. Politis starts by making an incision in one of two places: along the lower fold of the breast (the inframammary fold) or an incision around or below the areola. She then removes the breast capsules, implants and anything that potentially leaked out from the implants.
RESULTS, RECOVERY, FREQUENCY
Recovery from this procedure is 4-6 weeks. Implants are always removable no matter how many times your aesthetic goals change.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
You may experience temporary pain, soreness, and numbness of breast skin and/or incision discomfort. Maximum discomfort will occur the first few days but may last several weeks.
You will leave the operation with an ACE bandage around your chest or a bra.
Your implants may sit high on your chest for 4-6 weeks.
You may not have sensation in the nipples, but this usually returns over time.
Your first menstruation following surgery may cause breast swelling and pain.
You may feel tired for several weeks or months.
breast implant removal
THE AFTER
PRE-OP INSTRUCTIONS
Have all prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. Do not take any Aspirin, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10 or medications containing these compounds for 14 days before your procedure.
Begin your stool softener on the day prior to surgery to avoid constipation.
If you have implants: You will need to shower twice daily using antibacterial soap for the three days leading up to your procedure and the morning of your surgery for a total of 6 showers.
If you do not have implants: Wash with Hibiclens or antibacterial soap the night before surgery, as directed. Cleanse your belly button area with a Qtip and the antibacterial soap while showering.
Do not shave the surgical site within 2 days of surgery. This includes under arms for breast procedures and the pubic area for abdominal procedures. Hair may be trimmed with an electric clipper.
Avoid using body lotions, deodorants or perfumes on the day of surgery.
Do not wear any jewelry, piercings or contact lenses.
Refrain from vigorous exercise on the day before your surgery.
Have a regular meal on the evening before surgery, and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages on the evening before surgery. Do no eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
POST-OP INSTRUCTIONS
You may shower 24-48 hours after your operation, but no soaking in a bathtub. Lukewarm water.
Perform arm raises 5 times every hour while awake for 3-5 days.
Do not remove steri-strips (or bolsters if free nipple graft)
Wear ACE Bandage for the first 48 hours (if used) and then switch to a support/sports bra.
Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
May pad incision with dressings for comfort.
Avoid exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months.
Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or greater).
Begin scar therapy approximately 2 weeks after your operation
Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.
Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
No lifting greater than 8 lbs. for 6 weeks.
Sleep in a recliner or with multiple pillows
Avoid strenuous exercise and activities for approximately 4-6 weeks.
Return to work in 2-4 weeks.
