Breast Implants Removal & Replacement Beverly Hills
For many women, having an attractive, proportionate bust is essential to feeling feminine and boosting self-confidence. It is a common reason why women decide to have breast augmentation and why it remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. When the breasts start to lose these qualities due to age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight changes, we may recommend patients pursue breast implant removal or replacement in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Dr. Chiu has detailed consultations with patients to learn about their situation and develop their best options.
Reasons for Breast Implant RemovalPatients typically choose breast implant removal or replacement for one of three reasons: medical, comfort, or aesthetic. Each reason is valid and can be a sign that having your implants removed or replaced is the right choice for you.
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Rippling
Occasionally, saline implants can cause a visual rippling effect when the skin is too thin to cover the implant properly. The implant needs to be removed.
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Capsular Contracture
Scar tissue can form in the capsule around the implants. If this breast tissue hardens and tightens, it can lead to discomfort and compromised breast appearance. Possible solutions include in block capsulectomy.
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Implant Rupture or Damage
Implants can rupture from damage or age. Saline implants will visibly deflate, but the saline can be absorbed by the body. A ruptured silicone implant may require an imaging study for a definitive diagnosis.
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Malposition
Implants can move or shift from their original position, leading to a change in the breast’s appearance.
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Breast Implant Illness (BII)
This is an autoimmune disease with a range of symptoms that patients may experience due to textured implants.
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Implant Age
While implants can last for years, they do have a shelf life. Most patients can expect to have about 10 to 15 years in which implants stay in good shape. Beyond that, the FDA recommends replacing them to avoid complications.
Overview of a Typical Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Initial Consultation
Visiting Dr. Chiu for a confidential, informative consultation appointment is the first step. He walks through your situation, conducts an exam, and explains your available options. Whether you pursue implant removal surgery or replacement, he works with you to create a plan that will deliver the outcome you want. If needed, he may recommend imaging studies.
Preparing for the Procedure
Preparing for your breast implant removal surgery will be similar to your augmentation procedures. There is nothing complicated to worry about. Preparing for breast implant replacement involves:
- Obtaining bloodwork
- Arranging for someone to drive you home
- Avoiding smoking or tobacco products
- Completing any imaging (e.g., X-rays)
Day of the Procedure
- Duration: On its own, breast implant removal can take between 1.5 and 3 hours. However, some cases may be longer. Factors that impact duration include whether one or both breasts are to be treated, any medical complications, and if you are replacing implants.
- Anesthesia: We use general anesthesia to ensure patients experience no pain during their procedure. We ensure patients are in suitable health for a safe experience.
- Incisions: Whenever possible, we use the same incision location as your initial breast augmentation. Incision size and placement can vary, though, and will be determined by your individual procedure plan.
- New Implant Placement: If you are replacing breast implants, we do this at the end of the procedure. Dr. Chiu carefully places each implant, ensuring the position results in the desired breast look, shape, and feel.
- Wrapping Up: All incisions are closed, and you are woken up from the anesthetic. After spending some time in a comfortable recovery room, you can return home.
Recovering from Your Breast Implant Replacement
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The First Week
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected, just like with initial breast augmentation. Likewise, avoid all physical activity and take this time off from work. Focus on following all your post-procedure instructions.
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The Second Week
Continue to avoid activity and focus on caring for your breasts. Some patients may return to work at the end of the week, but continue to keep your breasts safe.
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Third to Fourth Weeks
Most of the bruising, swelling, and discomfort should fade within this period. However, engage in only light activities such as walking.
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Beyond
Based on your follow-up visit with Dr. Chiu, you can make a gradual return to your daily routine. Residual bruising and swelling should resolve day by day.
What Are the Results Like?
For breast implant removal, the results can vary. Larger implants may lead to a more drastic change in appearance once removed. But smaller ones may be less noticeable. In either case, patients can expect to see their results after swelling goes down in the first couple of weeks. The same applies if you have your implants replaced. While immediate volume changes may be present, it is essential to wait for swelling to fade before seeing your final results. For most patients, all swelling fades within a few months.
Combining Breast Procedures?
Due to changes in breast shape and skin stretching after breast implant removal, some patients prefer to have a breast lift at the same time. This breast procedure with implant removal allows patients to give their breasts a perkier position after the loss of volume. Even if you want to replace your implants with smaller ones, a breast lift can help keep a youthful appearance to the breasts, which otherwise might take on a deflated look.
Why choose Dr. Chiu?
Dr. Chiu is a board-certified surgeon who has helped thousands of patients improve the look and feel of their breasts. He understands the disappointment that can come with dissatisfaction with cosmetic outcomes and takes the time to learn about a patient’s needs to develop a suitable procedure. He combines skill, medical expertise, and an eye for aesthetic beauty to deliver results that patients can enjoy for years.
Book Your Consultation
Dr. Chiu is proud to offer patients safe breast implant removal procedures near you for patients in Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas. Start your journey toward seeing relief from painful symptoms or dissatisfaction with your results when you schedule a consultation for a breast implant removal at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc. Call our office or use our online form to take that first step and begin working with a leading, board-certified plastic surgeon to see safe, consistent outcomes.