Breast Implant Removal

Whether the motivation is medical, personal or aesthetic, breast implant removal is still a surgical procedure. It requires careful thought and professional support.

On this page:

• When it may be considered?
  • To avoid surgery every 10–15 years
  • Capsular contracture or other complications
  • Physical symptoms or persistent discomfort
• Possible solutions
  • Replacement of implants
  • Complete breast implant removal
  • Removal combined with breast lift
• Procedure details
  • Surgical steps
  • Aftercare and recovery
• Costs of breast implant removal

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Some women no longer wish to undergo repeat surgery every 10 to 15 years. Others experience pain, tightness or discomfort they associate with their implants, leading them to consider breast implant removal. Complications such as capsular contracture, leakage or rupture may also require surgical intervention. For many, the decision is also personal: preferences change, and a more natural breast shape may be desired over time.

In some situations, replacing breast implants with a different size or profile is more appropriate than full breast implant removal. This may better meet new expectations while maintaining harmony of the body.

Breast implants have changed considerably in recent years. Newer models are often more durable, more reliable and give a more natural look compared to older implants. That is why surgeons frequently recommend implant replacement rather than permanent breast implant removal, especially if the implants are old or cause discomfort.

This page provides clear information about the possible reasons for breast implant removal, the surgical options, the procedure itself, and the recovery process. The aim is to help you make an informed decision together with your plastic surgeon.

Why consider breast implant removal?

Women may choose breast implant removal for medical, physical or personal reasons.

To avoid repeated surgery every 10–15 years

Implants are not permanent devices. Even without visible issues, implant replacement is often advised after about ten years. For many, the idea of repeated surgery becomes burdensome, particularly as life priorities shift.

Complications related to implants

Breast implant removal can become necessary when complications occur, such as:

• Leakage or rupture: changes in breast shape and the need for corrective surgery.
• Capsular contracture: scar tissue around the implant can tighten, causing pain and distortion of the breast.
• Risk of ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma): a rare lymphoma linked to some older textured implants. This is one reason why replacement or removal is advised after long-term use.

Although rare, these risks need to be considered carefully to protect your health and well-being.

Discomfort, physical or psychological

Pregnancy, weight changes or natural ageing can make implants uncomfortable or less suitable for your body. Some women simply wish to return to their natural shape, or prefer smaller, more discreet breasts. Choosing breast implant removal in these cases is equally valid and will be discussed in consultation.

Solutions if you wish to remove breast implants

The surgeon will determine the most suitable option for you together with you, based on your expectations, skin quality, and the condition of your breast tissue.

Breast implant replacement

If your implants are damaged or outdated but you want to keep breast volume, replacement may be the right option. Newer implants are associated with fewer leaks, fewer capsular contractures and a lower risk of ALCL compared with older models. Implant replacement is often discussed alongside breast implant removal as an alternative.

• More about modern ergonomic breast implants

Complete breast implant removal (explantation)

This procedure removes the implants, usually through an incision in the breast crease or by reusing an existing scar. The operation itself is straightforward, but the cosmetic outcome can sometimes be disappointing: the breasts may look flatter, sagging or uneven after breast implant removal.

Some women accept this first step and later consider further corrective surgery if needed.

Breast implant removal combined with lift

When breast implants removal, the surgeon may suggest a breast lift to correct sagging or loss of volume. A lift is particularly recommended if the implants were large and the skin shows significant laxity.

A breast lift (mastopexy) involves removing excess skin, tightening the underlying tissues, and lifting the breasts, without necessarily altering their volume. This procedure helps to firm the skin, reposition the nipples, and restore a balanced, natural breast shape.

Depending on skin quality, the breast lift can be performed at the same time as implant removal or at a later stage, usually around six months afterwards, once the tissues have settled.

• More about breast lift surgery

To keep the surgery safe and less invasive, the surgeon may decide to leave some scar tissue around the implant, unless there is significant capsular contracture.

If you specifically request complete capsule removal during breast implant removal, this may involve additional surgery and extra costs.

The operation and aftercare in breast implant removal

During the first consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss your concerns, reasons for breast implant removal, and expected outcomes. Risks, recovery and alternatives are explained to ensure you can make an informed decision.

Surgical procedure for breast implant removal

Breast implant removal is carried out under general anaesthesia. Duration depends on the complexity:

• Only breast implant removal: around 1 hour
• Breast implant removal plus capsule removal: around 2 hours
• Breast implant removal plus breast lift: around 3 hours

An incision in the breast crease is usually made, giving good visibility and avoiding extra scarring. If there is a hard capsule or rupture, the surgeon may choose an all in one technique, removing implant and capsule together. This reduces the chance of leakage into surrounding tissues.

Recovery and aftercare

After breast implant removal, dressings are applied and you will wear a supportive medical bra day and night for about a month. This supports healing and minimises strain on the wounds.

Drains may be placed to remove excess fluid and are usually taken out within 2–3 days. Stitches are removed after 10–14 days. From then, gentle massage with moisturising cream can help soften scars and improve their appearance.

Breast: Prices in Euros