As you plan for breast implant removal before and after, one of the topics you’ll likely want to discuss with your surgeon is side effects. In particular, what after-breast-implant removal side effects should you expect?
While every patient is unique, there are certain side effects that are very normal after this surgery and others that may be red flags. Below, we’ll go over the five most common side effects that breast explant surgeons say you should expect following this procedure.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery Overview
Recovery after breast implant removal is sometimes smoother than your initial breast augmentation surgery, although the experience varies based on factors like the type of breast implants you have removed and whether you have additional procedures performed.
Some patients choose to undergo a breast lift, for example, which reshapes breast tissue. This comes with additional recovery symptoms. Other patients may decide to get new breast implants. Generally speaking, those who simply have implants removed without further surgery can expect a quicker healing process.
5 Normal Side Effects After Breast Implant Removal
If you have your breast implants removed with a surgical procedure, you can expect the following side effects. Note that these symptoms are normal whether you had silicone or saline implants removed.
1. Swelling
As your incisions heal and scar tissue forms during the recovery process, swelling is a common response. For many, swelling starts to go down after a week but can take longer if additional surgeries are performed.
To help manage swelling, keep the area elevated, wear a supportive garment as directed by your plastic surgeon, and follow all post-surgical instructions closely.
2. Bruising
2. BruisingYour breast appearance will also be significantly changed due to bruising.
Bruising is normal after breast implant removal surgery, usually appearing around the chest area and sometimes even beyond the breasts to the chest and sides of the body. Bruises may look intense initially but will typically fade within a week or two.
3. Pain and Discomfort
After breast implant removal, it’s normal to experience some degree of pain or discomfort, especially in the first few days. Pain usually lessens within the first week. You will be prescribed over-the-counter pain relief options to help ease this part of recovery.
4. Changes in Sensation
Some patients notice changes in breast sensation after breast implant removal, with numbness or tingling around the breast area. These sensations are often temporary and result from adjustments in breast tissue following implant removal. Most patients find that normal sensation gradually returns within a few weeks to months. Contact your surgeon if you do not regain sensation.
5. Loose Skin
Loose and sagging skin can be more apparent for those who had larger implants or have reduced skin elasticity. A breast lift may help address loose skin, but you may also notice that skin gradually firms over time.
Potentially Worrisome Side Effects to Watch For
Some side effects after breast implant removal may signal an issue requiring medical attention:
- High temperature
- Excessive bleeding
- Heat around incisions
- Severe pain around incisions
- Pain that won’t go away with pain medication
- Poor wound healing
- Poor scarring
- Persistently uneven swelling
- Long-term numbness
FAQs: Breast Implant Removal
Is recovery harder for patients with breast implant illness?
If you have BII or breast implant illness after breast implant removal side effects may be slightly different than for other patients. Recovery may be more difficult because you are also dealing with the residual BII side effects. However, recovery may also be better because those side effects should ideally dissipate quickly once your implants are removed.
What does breast implant removal cost?
What does breast implant removal cost?Breast implant removal cost varies widely based on factors like surgeon expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and geographic location. Additional procedures, like a breast lift, will increase the overall cost. Consulting with breast explant surgeons will provide a clearer estimate tailored to your specific needs.
So, will insurance cover breast implant removal?
In cases where breast implant removal is medically necessary, some insurance providers may cover part of the cost. If you are experiencing symptoms related to breast implant illness or have complications from your implants, this may also influence your coverage.
Will I look flat after breast implant removal?
In terms of side effects, flat after breast implant removal is one of the most worrisome outcomes for many patients. Unfortunately, the answer is that yes, you will probably look flat, and your breast shape will be significantly different.
This is simply because you will lose volume when your implants are taken out. Fortunately, you do have options such as breast lift surgery or replacement of your implants with new ones.
Book Your Consultation Appointment Today
Whether you hope to remove breast implants because of cosmetic issues or due to medical problems, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Mason of Perspectives Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas can help. Please contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Mason.