While breast implants have helped countless women enhance and accentuate their natural curves, there are several reasons why a patient may want to remove or replace their implants. Complications that arise over time, such as implant rippling or scar tissue formation, are often a catalyst for breast implant exchange. In other cases, the desire for a different type, shape, or size of implant is also common. No matter the reason, breast implants can certainly be removed by Dr. Neal D. Goldberg, our Westchester plastic surgeon, using a range of breast revision techniques.
Breast revision is a fairly straightforward procedure that is completed in approximately one hour, often using the same incisions made during your primary breast augmentation. You can opt to either exchange your saline/silicone implants, replace your current implants with a more favorable size, or remove your implants altogether.
That said, it’s important to note: if you don’t plan to replace your implants following their removal, the stretching of skin tissue that develops after years of breast implant use may present an aesthetic concern. The skin does not always “shrink” back to its original state after breast implant removal—especially after experiencing changes that can increase skin laxity, such as pregnancy and weight fluctuation. In these situations, a breast lift can typically restore the breasts to their original shape, often while enhancing “perkiness” and achieving a more youthful look in the process. Fat grafting to the breasts can also be an innovative approach to improve the shape and symmetry of the breasts using your own tissue. This procedure involves harvesting your own fat (located elsewhere on the body) through liposuction, and repurposing the purified fatty tissue for breast rejuvenation. Not only can fat grafting help refine the breast shape, but it can also smooth the implant edges if they are seen or felt through the skin.
You can learn the best breast revision technique for your individual needs during a consultation with Dr. Goldberg. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice.