Breast implant removal (Explant)

What is breast implant removal?

Breast implant removal, also known as explant, is a surgical procedure to remove your breast implants.

Why might some implants need to be removed or replaced?

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. There are several reasons women choose to remove or replace their implants over time:

Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens, causing discomfort or distortion.
Rupture: The breast implant may break or leak.
Malpositioning: The breast implants have moved into an undesired position. For example, it can be too high, too low, too far away from the cleavage.
Changes in breast shape: Breast shapes can change due to ageing, weight changes, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Personal preference: Some women simply feel the implants don’t suit them or no longer want them.
ALCL: Some patients have a concern regarding a rare type of lymphoma that has been associated with breast implants.

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Procedure information

You will meet Dr Law in consultation. The consultation will begin with a conversation about your goals and expectations.
If possible, please bring to your consultation:
- Details about your current implants, such as the brand and size.
- Any recent breast imaging (like mammograms or ultrasounds) is also very helpful, so please bring these along if you have them.
During your consultation, Dr Law will talk with you about what you’d like to achieve. Some people simply want their implants removed, while others may want new implants – either the same size or a different one. In some cases, a breast lift may be suitable after implant removal.
The most suitable procedure for you will be explained in detail - covering what it can and cannot achieve. Dr Law will also discuss the surgical process, possible risks, and complications.
Please feel free to discuss any other concerns you have about the shape or appearance of your breasts during the consultation.
- Breast implant removal is done under general anaesthetic in a fully accredited hospital with a qualified and experienced anaesthetist.
- You might need to stay in hospital for at least one night after surgery.
- During the procedure, a small cut is made in the fold under your breast. The implant and the surrounding scar tissue (called the "capsule") are sometimes removed as well.
- Before surgery, you will have discussed with Dr Law and decided whether you would like to:
  - Simply have the implants removed.
  - Replace the implants with new ones.
  - Have a breast lift at the same time.
- The cuts are usually closed with dissolvable stitches.
- A small drain is usually placed in the breast to remove any fluid that collects after surgery.
Dr Law will provide you with personalised instructions to follow after your surgery. Please keep in mind that recovery can vary between individuals, depending on their general health and the specific details of the procedure performed. But in general after breast implant removal surgery:
- 1 week: Many patients return to work (desk-based jobs) if they’re feeling well.
- 2–3 weeks: Bruising and swelling reduce significantly.
- 4–6 weeks: Gradual return to full activity, including exercise, once cleared by Dr Law’s team.
- 3–6 months: Final results start to stabilise as your tissues settle and scars mature.

Risks & complications

All surgery carries risks and may include:
- Drug reactions.
- Allergic reactions.
- Infection.
- Bleeding and haematoma (blood clot).
- Seroma (fluid collection).
Like any surgery, breast implant removal has some risks. These may include:
- Numbness of the breast or nipple.
- Changes in breast shape, size, or symmetry.
- Loose or sagging skin.
- Possible need for further surgery (e.g. lift or fat transfer).

Frequently Asked Questions

Women choose to have their implants removed for many reasons. These include complications such as capsular contracture, rupture, or infection, concerns about breast implant illness (BII), changes in personal preference, or lifestyle choices. Some patients simply feel their implants are no longer right for them as they age.
This varies from person to person and depends on factors such as your breast tissue, skin elasticity, the type of implant, and how long it has been in place. Some women find their breasts settle into a natural shape, while others may notice sagging or a deflated look. Some women find their breasts return to a natural shape, while others may notice sagging or a deflated appearance. In these cases, a breast lift can help restore shape and provide support after implant removal.
Many women who remove their implants due to breast implant illness symptoms (such as fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog) report improvement afterwards. However, results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Over time, a capsule (a layer of scar tissue) naturally forms around breast implants. Not everyone needs this capsule removed when the implant is taken out. If the capsule is thin and healthy, a partial capsulectomy may be sufficient. In other situations—such as with ruptured implants or thickened scar tissue—a total or en bloc capsulectomy (removing the implant and capsule together) may be recommended. Dr Law will advise you on the safest and most appropriate approach for your situation.
Scarring will depend on the surgical technique used. In some cases, implants can be removed through a similar incision used for their placement, while in others the scar may need to be extended. If a breast lift is performed, additional incisions are often necessary.
If your skin has stretched or you have little natural breast tissue, a breast lift may be recommended to restore shape and position. Some women choose to wait and see how their breasts settle before deciding on a lift.
Yes, some women choose implant replacement (re-augmentation), either with the same size, smaller implants, or combined with a breast lift.