Breast Implant Removal (Explant)

with or without Lift or Fat Grafting

Thoughtful implant removal with options to maintain beautiful shape—on your terms.

Overview

Whether you’re ready to return to your natural size, addressing capsular contracture or asymmetry, or pursuing a more minimalist look, Dr. Slamin offers personalized implant removal with or without a lift and/or fat grafting to support contour. We listen carefully, review imaging when indicated, and plan a path that aligns with your goals and health.

Surgical Notes

  • Downtime: 5–7 days for most daily activities; exercise phased over 3–6 weeks
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia
  • Setting: Accredited surgery center
  • Incisions/Scars: Prior inframammary or periareolar scars when possible, plus vertical or anchor scar if a lift is planned
  • Techniques: Implant removal, selective capsulectomy, total capsulectomy in appropriate cases; lift and/or fat grafting as needed
  • Results Timeline: Shape immediate; final contour by ~3 months
  • Longevity: Natural breast aging post-removal

Goals of Breast Implant Removal

  • Provide clarity and options for patients with concerns about existing implants
  • Safely remove implants and address the capsule when indicated
  • Restore an elegant breast contour with lift and/or fat grafting

Candidates for Breast Implant Removal

  • Desire for smaller/natural breast or correction of firmness/distortion/discomfort
  • Physical exam or imaging suggest capsular contracture or rupture
  • Realistic expectations about post-explant shape and potential need for lift
  • Good health and non-smoking (or optimized)

Dr. Slamin’s Approach to Breast Implant Removal

Consultation & Planning

We discuss your history, prior size changes, and goals. We may order ultrasound or MRI when appropriate. Together we decide on capsulectomy extent and whether to add lift or fat grafting to achieve your desired contour.

Technical Approach

  • Capsule Management: Partial, total, or segmental capsulectomy when indicated
  • Lift Integration: Immediate mastopexy to tighten the envelope when beneficial
  • Fat Grafting: Softens edges and restores gentle fullness

Day of Procedure

Most cases take 1–3 hours depending on complexity. Expect a supportive bra and detailed aftercare provided ahead of time.

Recovery Timeline

Days
1–3
Swelling; rest
~1
Week
Follow-up; light duties
2–3
Weeks
Social
4
Weeks
Return to full activity
3–6
Months
Softening

Pain & Comfort

Mild bruising; comfortable.

Frequently Asked Question