Implant Removal / Exchange in Mountain View, Los Gatos, & Morgan Hill, CA

Regain comfort and confidence with personalized implant removal or exchange.

Restore Balance and Peace of Mind

Have you been experiencing discomfort or dissatisfaction in regards to your breast implants? Perhaps life circumstances have shifted, you’ve encountered complications, or you’ve had a change in aesthetic preference that has made you reconsider your current implants. At SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery, we understand the complexity of breast implant removal and exchange. Our compassionate team specializes in these procedures to help you restore balance and achieve peace of mind. Whether you’re seeking to remove your implants entirely or exchange them for a different size or type, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Serving patients in Mountain View, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, and beyond, we are dedicated to providing individualized care that aligns with your goals and enhances your well-being.

What Is Implant Removal / Exchange?

Implant removal and exchange are surgical procedures designed to address concerns related to existing breast implants. Implant removal involves the complete extraction of breast implants, often along with the surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy), to return the breasts to a more natural state. Implant exchange involves replacing the current implants with new ones, which may differ in size, shape, or material, to suit your current preferences better or address issues such as implant rupture or capsular contracture.

At SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery, our skilled team tailors each procedure to your unique needs, ensuring that your journey reflects your desires and health considerations. We utilize advanced surgical techniques to minimize scarring, promote optimal healing, and achieve results that harmonize with your body.

The Benefits of Implant Removal / Exchange

Choosing to undergo implant removal or exchange is a highly personal decision. At SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your individual goals and provide compassionate support throughout the decision-making process, no matter your reasoning for undergoing treatment. This procedure provides numerous benefits, including the following:

Enhanced Comfort: Alleviate discomfort or pain associated with complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture, or shifting.
Updated Aesthetic Goals: Adjust your implants’ size, shape, or type to better align with your current body image and lifestyle preferences.
Improved Confidence: Restore your sense of self and satisfaction with your appearance, whether by returning to a natural breast size or achieving a new look with different implants.
Addressing Health Concerns: Remove implants due to health issues such as breast implant illness or to facilitate medical imaging and breast examinations.
Personalized Care: Receive a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, with a focus on safety, aesthetics, and your overall well-being.

Is Implant Removal / Exchange Right for Me?

You might consider implant removal or exchange if you are experiencing:

Discomfort or pain related to your breast implants
The desire for a different implant size, shape, or material
Concerns about implant complications like rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture
A change in personal aesthetic preferences or lifestyle
Health concerns potentially related to your implants

Ideal candidates are healthy non-smokers with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. It's important to have a thorough consultation to discuss your reasons, concerns, and desired results.

If you’re considering breast implant removal or exchange, we invite you to schedule a personalized consultation with our experienced team at SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery. During this meeting, we'll take the time to understand your specific situation, provide detailed information about your options, and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.

Schedule a Consultation

SF | Bay Area Plastic Surgery Real Patient

What to Expect: The Implant Removal / Exchange Process

Embarking on implant removal or exchange is a significant decision, and understanding the process can help you feel more confident and prepared going into it. Here’s what you can expect on this journey:

1. Initial Consultation

Comprehensive Evaluation: First, we will review your medical history, discuss your concerns and goals, and assess your current implants and breast tissue.
Customized Surgical Plan: We'll develop a personalized plan alongside you to achieve your desired outcome, whether it's removal, exchange, or additional procedures like a breast lift.
Open Dialogue: This appointment provides an opportunity to ask questions, express anxieties, and understand the potential risks and benefits. We believe in transparent communication to build trust and set realistic expectations.

2. Preoperative Preparation

Medical Clearance: To ensure you're a suitable candidate for surgery, you may need to undergo lab tests or medical evaluations
Pre-Surgery Instructions: To promote optimal healing, we’ll provide detailed guidelines on medications to avoid, dietary considerations, and lifestyle adjustments—such as quitting smoking.
Scheduling: Our team will help you choose a convenient date and coordinate necessary arrangements.

3. Day of Surgery

Anesthesia Administration: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout.
Surgical Procedure:
- Implant Removal: When possible, incisions are made along the original scar lines. The implants are carefully removed, and a capsulectomy may be performed to remove surrounding scar tissue.
- Implant Exchange: After removing the existing implants, new implants are placed according to your customized plan. Adjustments to the implant pocket may be made to accommodate the new implants.
- Additional Procedures: A breast lift (mastopexy) or fat grafting may be performed to reshape and enhance the breasts after implant removal.
Meticulous Technique: Our surgeons utilize advanced techniques to minimize scarring and ensure symmetrical, aesthetically pleasing results.

4. Closing the Incisions

Suturing: Incisions are carefully closed with sutures that promote optimal healing.
Bandaging: Your breasts will be bandaged, and a surgical bra may be applied to support healing.

5. Immediate Postoperative Care

Recovery Monitoring: You'll be taken to a recovery area where our medical team will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off.
Postoperative Instructions: We'll provide essential information on managing discomfort, caring for your incisions, and recognizing signs of potential complications.
Discharge: Once stable, you will be able to go home the same day. It’s vital that you have someone to drive and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.

Implant Removal / Exchange Recovery & Results

Recovery from implant removal or exchange varies depending on the specifics of your procedure. Generally, for the first few days, you can expect mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal. Pain can be managed with prescribed medication. Rest is crucial. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and raising your arms above shoulder level for at least one to two weeks. We’ll schedule visits to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns. Most patients return to non-strenuous work and daily activities within one to two weeks, depending on their comfort level and the nature of their job.

For implant removal, your breasts will adjust to their natural size and shape. You’ll notice a firmer, more lifted appearance if a breast lift was performed. You’ll see immediate changes in your breast size and shape for implant exchange according to the new implants chosen.

Your final results will become more apparent as swelling subsides over weeks to months. Our team is committed to supporting you throughout your recovery, ensuring you achieve results that align with your goals and enhance your well-being.

Why Choose SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery?

At SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery, we understand that decisions about your body are deeply personal and significant. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care, focusing on your individual needs and desires. We prioritize open communication and involve you in every step of the process to ensure transparency and collaboration.

Our surgeons bring expertise and a meticulous approach to each procedure, striving for results that enhance your natural beauty and confidence. We believe in creating a supportive environment where your concerns are heard and your goals are met with integrity and honesty.

Whether you're considering implant removal or exchange, SF Bay Area Plastic Surgery can provide compassionate care, advanced surgical techniques, and a commitment to your overall well-being. If you’re ready to restore comfort and peace of mind, schedule your consultation with our team today.

FAQ Implant Removal/Exchange

Why might someone choose to remove or exchange their breast implants?

Reasons may include discomfort, implant complications (like rupture or capsular contracture), a desire for a different size or type, lifestyle changes, or health concerns.

Will removing my implants cause my breasts to sag or look deflated?

After implant removal, some patients may experience sagging or a loss of volume. A breast lift or fat grafting can be performed simultaneously to reshape and enhance the breasts for a more youthful appearance.

What are the risks associated with implant removal or exchange?

The risks are similar to those of other surgical procedures and may include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast sensation, or asymmetry. We minimize risks through thorough evaluations and advanced surgical techniques.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery times vary, but most patients return to non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks. Complete healing and final results may take several weeks to months.

Will insurance cover implant removal or exchange?

Insurance may cover implant removal if it's deemed medically necessary due to complications. Coverage varies by provider and policy. We'll assist you in determining your eligibility.

Can I combine implant removal with other procedures?

Yes, many patients choose to combine implant removal with a breast lift or fat transfer to enhance the breasts' shape and appearance.

How will implant removal affect mammograms and breast health screenings?

Removing implants can make mammograms and breast examinations easier and more accurate. Always inform your healthcare provider about any breast surgeries.

What types of implants are available if I choose an exchange?

We offer various implant options, including saline, silicone gel, and gummy bear implants, in different shapes and sizes to suit your preferences.

Will there be scarring after implant removal or exchange?

Incisions are often made along the original scar lines to minimize additional scarring. Any new scars are typically small and fade over time.

How do I prepare for implant removal or exchange surgery?

We'll provide comprehensive preoperative instructions, including medical evaluations, adjusting medications, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking.

Is implant removal or exchange painful?

Discomfort varies but is generally manageable with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report that pain subsides significantly within the first few days.

How do I schedule a consultation?

To schedule a consultation, please call our office to speak with our lovely staff, or you can utilize our convenient online contact form.