If you’re considering having your breast implants removed, you’re likely wondering what happens afterward. Whether you’re making this decision due to health concerns, discomfort, or simply because you feel ready for a change, it’s important to know what to expect during recovery. Here’s a straightforward look at life post-breast implant removal, so you can prepare for what comes next.
Why Do People Get Their Implants Removed?
There are a lot of reasons women decide to have their implants removed:
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the tissue around the implant hardens, leading to discomfort or pain.
- Implant Rupture: If an implant breaks or leaks, removal is often necessary.
- Personal Choice: Some women simply decide they no longer want implants, opting for a more natural look as their lifestyle or preferences change.
- Health Concerns: With conditions like Breast Implant Associated System Symptoms (sometimes referred to as BII or Breast Implant Illness) or concerns about BIA-ALCL (a rare type of lymphoma), some women opt to remove their implants to safeguard their health.
Whatever your reason, the process can feel a lot more manageable when you know what to expect.
What Happens During Implant Removal?
Implant removal is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll head home the same day. The surgery itself can vary depending on what you need:
- Simple Removal: The surgeon will take out the implants and close the incisions, typically using the same scars from your original surgery.
- Capsulectomy: If you’ve developed capsular contracture, your surgeon may need to remove the scar tissue around the implant too, which can lengthen the procedure and recovery time.
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Some women choose to get a breast lift during implant removal, especially if their skin has stretched. This helps restore a more youthful shape to the breasts.
What to Expect Right After Surgery
After the procedure, you’ll wake up in the recovery room with your chest wrapped in bandages or a compression garment. This helps minimize swelling and keeps your breasts supported as they heal. Here’s what to expect in the days and weeks following the surgery:
- The First 24 Hours
Right after surgery, you’ll likely feel tired and a little sore. It’s totally normal to experience some swelling and bruising. You might also have drainage tubes to help remove excess fluid, but these are usually taken out after a few days.
- Pain and Discomfort: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort in the first few days.
- Take It Easy: During the first day or two, rest is key. Avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
- The First Week
You’ll have a follow-up visit with your surgeon to check on your healing and possibly remove any drainage tubes. While you may still feel sore, things should start getting easier as the swelling begins to go down.
- Pain Relief: Most women switch to over-the-counter pain medication after the first few days.
- Sleep Elevated: Keeping your upper body slightly elevated while you sleep can help with swelling. Use a few extra pillows or sleep in a recliner for added comfort.
- Weeks 2 to 4
As you continue to heal, your swelling will decrease and bruising will fade. By this point, you should start feeling more comfortable and may notice your breasts gradually settling into their new shape.
- Scar Care: Your surgeon may recommend specific treatments to help reduce scarring, though scars will naturally fade over time.
How Will Your Breasts Look?
After implant removal, the look of your breasts will depend on how long you’ve had implants and their size. If you had small implants or had them for a short period, your skin may tighten back up relatively easily. For larger implants or those who’ve had them for many years, the skin might have stretched, leading to sagging. A breast lift with or without fat grafting can help address this.
- Natural Shape: Over time, your breasts will settle into a more natural shape. Patience is key, as it can take several months for the final look to take shape.
- Scarring: Your scars will be in the same place as your original incision scars and should fade over time. However, they may not disappear completely.
Emotional Recovery
Aside from the physical healing, it’s also important to acknowledge the emotional aspect. Some women feel immediate relief, especially if their implants were causing pain or discomfort. Others may need time to adjust to their new appearance.
- Relief: If your implants were causing you physical issues, having them removed can feel like a weight off your shoulders.
- Adjustment Period: If you’ve had implants for a long time, it might take some time to get used to your body’s new look. This is perfectly normal. If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, it’s okay to talk to someone about it.
Long-Term Results: What to Expect
In the weeks and months after implant removal, you’ll notice your breasts settling into their new shape. By around the three-month mark, you’ll have a clearer picture of the final results. Most women return to normal activities within a few weeks, but it’s important to listen to your body and not rush the healing process.
- Stay Active: Once your surgeon gives you the green light, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help keep your body feeling great.
- Follow-Up Visits: Make sure to attend your follow-up appointments to ensure that everything is healing properly and there are no complications.
Considering Breast Implant Removal?
If you’re thinking about removing your breast implants, it’s natural to have questions. Knowing what to expect can help make the decision easier. Whether you’re making the choice for health reasons or simply ready for a change, the process is manageable and can offer you peace of mind.
At Radiance Plastic Surgery, we’re here to help you navigate the process with care and expertise. Our team is dedicated to helping you feel confident and comfortable with your body. Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation today!
