Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy

Remove saline or silicone breast implants in Durango, Colorado

Women may choose to have their breast implants removed for various reasons.  Like all surgeries, there are inherent risks with any breast implant surgery, regardless of whether it is an implantation or removal.  A lot of attention has recently been portrayed in the media of suspected autoimmune disorders associated with breast implants; research into this area is still ongoing.  If you choose to have your implants removed for a suspected autoimmune disorder, it is important to note that your symptoms will likely remain after removal of the implants and removal may leave a less-than-desirable breast aesthetic.

Types of Breast Implant Removal

There are different variations in breast implant removal, and, in general, the type of method used depends on factors such as age of implants, presence or absence of capsular contracture, presence of associated tissue disorders, and the plane in which the implants reside.

Breast Implant Removal Procedures

• Removal of breast implants:This type of removal is straightforward and is typically chosen for women who have uncomplicated breast implants and simply choose to have the implants removed in the most succinct method possible.  The surgeon may make an incision at the already existing location (e.g., inframammary fold, around the nipple, axilla, etc.), or they may make a new incision which allows optimal access to the implant pocket.  Then the surgeon removes the implants while leaving the implant capsule intact.  The scars typically heal very well.  Temporary drains may be used to remove the excessive inflammatory fluid that results from a “dead space” created by the actual removal of the implants.  This is a common technique performed by Plastic Surgeons.
• Partial capsulectomy with removal of breast implants:  Sometimes, the surgeon may choose to remove the implants as previously discussed, and, at the same time, remove a portion of the breast implant capsule.  The decision to do this may rely on several factors such as, but not limited to, breast capsular contracture or the presence of a nearby lesion.  The incisions and resulting scars are similar to the first type of removal and temporary drains are often used.  This is also a common method utilized by Plastic Surgeons and allows the capsule to be sent to the lab for testing if indicated.

• Complete (Total) capsulectomy with removal of breast implants: During this type of removal, the surgeon removes the entire capsule which surrounds the implant.Incisions utilized for this type of removal are often extended beyond the original incisions as this allows the surgeon to remove the entire capsule with specialized instrumentation.  Temporary drains are often used.  Despite larger incisions, the scars still typically heal very well.  The important difference between this type of removal and the En Bloc removal (below) is the degree of preservation of the capsule during the actual removal.  This is also a common method that Plastic Surgeons utilize and allows the capsule to be sent to the lab for testing if indicated.

• En Bloc capsulectomy with removal of breast implants:This type of implant removal is very technical type of removal and one of the preferred types of removal that Dr. Williams performs.  During an En Bloc removal, the surgeon uses a larger incision which may be concealed in the inframammary fold of the breast.  The surgeon then frees the implant and capsule as one unit from the surrounding tissues.  The combined implant and capsule is then removed together taking care to avoid spilling any capsule contents to the outer tissue. Occasionally, due to scar adherence to surrounding tissues, the surgeon may need to convert to a total or partial capsulectomy to avoid injury to surrounding structures.  Temporary drains are often used and the incisions typically heal very well.  If indicated, Dr. Williams may recommend this type of removal in order to avoid any spillage of contents from the capsules to the surrounding tissues.  This also allows the combined implant and capsule to be sent to the lab for further testing if indicated.

How do I know if my implants are ruptured?

When discussing breast implants, it is important to remember that they are considered 10-year medical devices by the manufacturers.  Therefore, you should have them replaced or removed after 10 years.  If your implants are older than 10 years, it does not necessarily mean that they are ruptured.  There are cases of implants newer than 10 years rupturing.  There may be both physical and radiologic signs of rupture.  The best way to tell if your implants are ruptured is to seek a consultation with a board certified Plastic Surgeon.  He or she may recommend additional radiologic testing to evaluate the integrity of the implants.

Will implant removal be covered by insurance?

In order for insurance to cover a surgery, it must be deemed medically necessary.  As such, a reason for removal must be present.  The best way to determine this is to visit with your Plastic Surgeon about the issues which you are experiencing.  In addition, research into breast implant associated disorders is ongoing, and medical indications may be subject to change as new developments arise.

Will my capsules be sent for testing?

Dr. Williams often sends the breast implant capsule(s) for routine screening.  Some indications include, but are not necessarily limited to, implants placed prior to 1992 and capsular contracture.  If not medically indicated, you may request and arrange with the laboratory to have testing done at a self-pay rate.

Can I keep my removed breast implants?

Often times, arrangements may be made to allow you to take your removed implants home.  In so doing, routine precautions will need to be followed to insure public safety as indicated.

Can pictures or video be taken of the procedure and the implants/capsules after removal?

Yes.  If desired, Dr. Williams can take photos and video of pertinent portions of the procedure and implants/capsules.  You would need to sign a standardized consent in order for him do so and fees may be applicable as indicated.

For more information on Breast Reduction, or to schedule a consultation, call Peak Rejuvenation at (970) 259-5990 or Request a Consultation.