Cleveland Breast Implant Removal Techniques
Surgical removal of breast implants can be done in several ways. Determining the ideal method will depend on a few factors. First, why is the patient having their implants removed? Patients with capsular contracture or implant rupture require a different surgical approach than those who choose to remove their implants. Second, what type of implant does the patient have and how long have they had them? Finally, the initial incision site may help inform Dr. Goldschmidt of the ideal removal technique. Several other factors like if a patient is replacing their implants or not also contribute. Plastic surgeons can perform breast implant removal surgery in three ways. These are partial capsulectomy, full capsulectomy, and en bloc capsulectomy.
Partial Capsulectomy
A partial capsulectomy is usually the method performed when a patient plans to have breast augmentation at the same time. During this type of explant surgery, Dr. Goldschmidt removes the implant and some of the surrounding scar capsule. This capsule of scar tissue is normal, but can thicken and become hard or painful, a condition known as capsular contracture.
For patients not experiencing any problems, a partial capsulectomy is perfectly safe and an appropriate surgical approach. Patients with symptoms will see better results with other techniques.
Full Capsulectomy
A full capsulectomy involves removing the implant and the entirety of the scar tissue. However, the structures are generally removed separately and cut away from one another. In some cases, not all scar tissue is removed. For example, some scar tissue can collect on the chest wall and make it difficult or too risky to remove. Though, most of the time, Dr. Goldschmidt can remove all of the scar tissue.
This method may be preferred for some symptomatic patients such as those with capsular contracture or mild breast implant illness cases. A ruptured saline breast implant is also adequately treated by a full capsulectomy explant surgery.
En Bloc Capsulectomy
An en bloc capsulectomy or en bloc explant removes the breast implant and scar capsule in one piece. This does require a larger incision and an extremely experienced plastic surgeon. The en bloc capsulectomy is often recommended for addressing ruptured implants and breast implant illness.
Implant Removal With Breast vs. Without Breast Lift
A breast implant explant surgery is frequently performed alongside a breast lift to restore the ideal breast shape and appearance. This does also make it easier for Dr. Goldschmidt to remove scar tissue. However, considering removing implants does not have to use the anchor incision of a breast lift. Therefore, if possible, many patients prefer to avoid a breast lift.
The table below compares whether a patient may need a breast lift along with implant removal and the basic differences between the two procedures.
| Explant With Breast Lift | Explant Without Breast Lift |
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There is not an easy answer to whether or not a breast lift is necessary after breast implant removal in Cleveland. For some patients, it may not be needed to achieve a good result. Patients whose skin is not expected to retract enough, or who fit other criteria, may require a breast lift as well. Dr. Goldschmidt can make this recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Surgery
Should I Replace My Breast Implants?
This is a deeply personal decision. Some plastic surgeons and manufacturers recommend replacing implants every ten years. Others do not. It is largely up to the patient and their surgeon to determine if breast implant replacement is necessary. However, if a patient is actively having problems or wants to change to a different size or type of implant, this can warrant replacing breast implants.
What Is Breast Implant Removal Recovery Like?
The recovery following Cleveland breast implant removal does involve a traditional surgical recovery. Many patients note that the recovery is similar to their original breast augmentation surgery recovery. Dr. Goldschmidt will prescribe pain medication though many patients only find it necessary for two to three days. Other recommendations or protocols include:
- Limit physical activity for two weeks
- Elevate the head of the bed
- Avoid lifting arms and heavy objects
- Attend post-operative appointments
- Do not touch the incision area or breasts unnecessarily
- Do not smoke or drink during recovery
- Stay hydrated and eat well
- Keep surgical area out of the sun
- Do not return to work or physical activity until cleared
What Is Breast Implant Illness?
Breast implant illness is the name for a combination of symptoms that are unexplainable but often relieved by removing breast implants. While many plastic and cosmetic surgeons do not believe in breast implant illness, if removing breast implants can help a patient feel better—physically and/or mentally—it is worth it.
The symptoms of breast implant illness are extremely varied and can vary from patient to patient. They can include everything from chronic fatigue, headaches, stomach issues, hair loss, and muscle and joint pains. It is important to be seen by a medical professional and have a full workup done. This ensures that there are no other contributing illnesses or conditions that could be causing the symptoms. Breast implant illness is a diagnosis of exclusion.
Does Skin Shrink After Breast Implant Removal In Cleveland?
Usually, patients see some skin retraction once implants are removed. Some patients will see more than others. Older patients are less likely to see significant skin shrinking and would likely benefit from an added breast lift. Younger patients may avoid a breast lift depending on their skin laxity.
Will Breasts Return To Their Natural Size?
Yes, though, if a patient has been pregnant and nursed since getting their implants, their breasts may have shrunk naturally. Also, sometimes, it is necessary to remove a small amount of tissue. However, patients are generally close to their original breast size after breast implant removal surgery in Cleveland.
The Best Breast Implant Removal In Cleveland, Ohio
Dr. Goldschmidt is a double board certified surgeon and part of the certification board for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. He is an accomplished breast surgeon and regularly performs breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction surgeries. The Cosmetic Surgery Center offers the best breast implant removal without lift Cleveland provides.
For more information about Breast Implant Removal Without Lift in Cleveland & Columbus, OH or to schedule your Breast Implant Removal Without Lift in Cleveland & Columbus, OH consultation with Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, please call (216) 264-8100.