Dallas Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Azouz discusses Exchanging Breast Implants and Breast Implant Removal

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures but breast implants placed in Dallas and around the United States today are different than those placed years ago. Previous breast implants were made with liquid or semi-liquid silicone. When breast implants placed in the 1980s and 1990s rupture they deflate and leak out like syrup. Modern breast implants are better manufactured with materials that will help keep the implants together. A ruptured modern breast implant better resembles a cut gummy bear.

Breast implants provide women an ideal breast shape, size, and contour. Traditionally It is recommended that breast implants be replaced or removed every ten years but many patients maintain their same breast implants for twenty, or even more than thirty years. Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. David Azouz performs breast implant removal or breast implant revision for women who have a variety of issues with their breast implants regardless of when they were put in.

What are the reasons a breast implant should be removed or replaced?

There are various reasons why you may consider removing or replacing your breast implants. These reasons could be cosmetic or medical, they include:

• Inappropriate size of the implants (breast implants are too small or too large)
• Sagging breasts
• Feeling that the breasts are no longer proportional to the body
• Rupture of the breast implants
• A leak of the breast implant
• Capsular contracture
• Silicone granulomas
• Seroma formation
• Breast implant discomfort or pain

Dr. Azouz can help you determine the correct course of action for your unique situation. Dr. Azouz is often able to use nonsurgical methods for improving early capsular contractures.

Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

If you are considering breast implant removal, it is important to talk to a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. David Azouz. He will go over your questions, concerns and discuss options. Dr. Azouz will discuss key procedures and explain technical plastic surgery terms as below:

What is a total capsulectomy?

A total capsulectomy refers to the complete removal of the scar tissue that forms around the breast implant known as the breast implant capsule.

What is an en-bloc breast implant removal?

An en bloc breast implant removal or explantation refers to removing the breast implant along with its capsule completely together in one “bloc”.

What happens if breast implants are not replaced?

Many patients are worried that their breasts will look deflated or saggy once the implants are removed. Dr. Azouz uses specialized techniques to restore the breasts to a full, perky state through a procedure known as a breast lift or mastopexy. A breast lift can be performed at the same time as a breast implant removal or exchange.

Will I need a lift after my implants are removed?

Many patients will require a breast lift after breast implants are removed. A breast lift does not necessarily need to add scarring to the breast and Dr. Azouz performs a variety of breast lift incisions including:

• Mini lift (crescentic mini mastopexy)
• Lollipop lift ( around the areola and a verticle component)
• Inframammary plication (an incision only placed in the inframammary fold)
• Anchor lift (full mastopexy around the areola down and across the inframammary fold)

What is the Breast Implant Removal Cost?

The cost of breast implant removal is highly individualized. Dr. Azouz will determine the cost of your breast implant removal surgery during the consultation by performing a physical examination and learning about your medical history, goals, and concerns. If breast implant removal is chosen due to ruptured implants, lumps in the breasts, or infection then insurance may play a role. If you are curious about the insurance options and cost ranges of this or any of the other procedures performed by Dr. Azouz, or contact our office today and come in for an appointment so an individualized price may be provided.

How is Breast Implant Removal Performed?

Breast implant removal surgery is done to remove implants from a previous augmentation procedure. It corrects breast implant-related issues such as capsular contracture, scar tissue, or rupture, as well as any cosmetic concerns. Liposuction techniques can also play a role to remove bra fat or to remove silicone collections. Breast implant removal and breast implant revision are usually done under intravenous sedation without the need for surgical drains.

Dr. Azouz performs breast implant removal at accredited hospitals and centers. He always performs the surgery with the smallest incision possible in order to leave patients with minimal or no scarring. Dr. Azouz often combines this surgery with a small internal breast lift, that is done through a small incision in the lower breast. This helps to make sure the breasts are in a lifted, youthful position without necessarily even replacing the implants. Dr. Azouz uses highly advanced techniques to make the recovery period as quick and pain-free as possible.

How Long is the Recovery Period After Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal is done on an outpatient basis. Meaning you are free to return home and begin recovering the same day. It is normal to experience some swelling for a few weeks. You will be suited with a surgical bra that reduces swelling, improves blood circulation, and promotes healing. The stitches used are generally absorbable and often will not need to be manually removed. You will most likely be back to basic activity and work within a few days. Any heavy exercise such as marathon running or heavy weight lifting should be avoided for six weeks. Light activity such as the use of the elliptical, jogging and yoga can usually begin after 10-14 days.

So … do I HAVE to change my breast implants?

Not necessarily, some patients who are not having issues with their implants do not have to change their implants. It is recommended to follow up with a plastic surgeon to assess the implants and breasts regularly for breast screening and examination. In some patients, a lift can be done around the implants to remove extra skin without removing or altering the implants. Most patients who have had breast augmentation do not have to undergo any other operation for their implants. It is important to have a good understanding of what breast implants are present and to share your breast implant card with Dr. Azouz at your visit.

The best breast implants meet medical and industry standards including:

• Safety and quality in manufacture and commercialization
• After-sales guarantee and warranty
• Follow up with a plastic surgeon
• FDA approval

For these reasons and more it is critical to see an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. David Azouz when exchanging the breast implant. Dr. David Azouz is one of the few plastic surgeons who can report over 35 years of experience. Dr. Azouz is highly regarded by his peers and from countless numbers of patients who have left positive and exceptional reviews for his care. Dr. Azouz is able to listen to you and understand what your questions and concerns are regarding your breast implant removal or exchange.

Are you considering breast implant removal? Call Dallas plastic surgeon, Dr. David Azouz today to schedule a consultation. We are committed to the best patient experience and the top plastic surgery results. You can reach him by phone at (972) 702-8888 or by filling out an online form.