Breast Implant Removal

Capsular contracture is a complication of breast augmentation surgery that 7-15% of patients may experience during the lifetime of their breast implants. It occurs when an abnormally thick “capsule” (layer of scar tissue) is created by your body’s reaction to an inserted foreign object (i.e., breast implants). While the formation of a thin capsule is typically a good reaction that helps keep the implant in place, a thicker capsule can feel hard to the touch, decrease the mobility of the implants, raise the cleavage on the affected side, causing asymmetry and eventually lead to malformation of the implant and pain.

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of T-cell lymphoma — cancer of the immune system; so while it’s not a breast cancer, it’s a very serious condition that should be looked into immediately. It develops in the capsule or scar tissue that surrounds a breast implant.

Breast implant illness (BII) is a potentially debilitating condition that can include fatigue, joint pain, memory and concentration problems, and more that develops in some people who have had breast reconstruction or enhancement with a breast augmentation. While most experts believe BII is caused by an autoimmune or inflammatory reaction to the implants, the illness isn’t very well understood and, thus, not considered an “official” medical diagnosis. Anyone with a breast implant (specifically silicone and saline-filled implants) can develop BII, regardless of whether the implant is still intact or has ruptured. If you think you are experiencing BII, it is best to see your primary care doctor undergo a full body evaluation to rule out other treatable causes for your symptoms.

Breast implant removal is most commonly performed under general anesthesia but can be done under local anesthesia in certain circumstances, which is determined by the individual patient’s need/desire for implant removal. Medications will be provided to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. During your initial recovery, you can expect some swelling and bruising. Dr. Sato will prescribe medications to help with any discomfort experienced during the early postoperative period, but many patients are able to ease any soreness with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol and do not require prescription medication.

Typically, you will need at least one consultation appointment with Dr. Sato to discuss your goals, medical history, and treatment plan, as well as a pre-operative appointment and a full day reserved for your surgery. You can expect a follow-up appointment a few days after the procedure, so your initial healing can be monitored.

On average, patients can expect to see Dr. Sato two to three days after their surgery and again one week after that. You should then expect to return about two weeks after that and slowly space your follow-ups apart over the course of six months to a year.

While not mandatory, in cases of breast procedures where an implant is in place, Dr. Sato will want to see you once a year to check on the implants.

One of Dr. Sato’s biggest strengths is her bedside manner and the post-op care she provides, which is why she has so many returning patients and word-of-mouth recommendations. When you come in for your breast implant removal, Dr. Sato and our team promise to put your mind at ease with a seamless and comfortable experience.

Patients will see an immediate change following .

Following Dr. Sato’s post-operative instructions is essential to optimizing your recovery and achieving the best possible outcome.

Absolutely! Patients will combine their breast implant removal surgery with other procedures, such as a breast lift or breast augmentation fat transfer. We recommend you discuss your goals and concerns with Dr. Sato during your breast implant removal consultation so that she can provide her expert advice on the most suitable combination of procedures to achieve the desired results.