Restore the Breasts YOU Love

Though breast augmentation surgery has some of the highest rates of patient satisfaction, breast implants aren't for everyone. If you are experiencing dissatisfaction, discomfort, or complications with your breast implants, Denver plastic surgeon Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS, PCEO can help. Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is typically performed for these main reasons:

The first step in determining if breast implant removal is the right option for you is to consult with an experienced, board-certified Plastic Surgeon such as Dr. Buford.

 

What to Expect During Denver Implant Removal Surgery?

Breast implant removal surgery is usually a very straightforward procedure that is typically performed either under twilight anesthesia or using local anesthesia with IV sedation. Dr. Buford will begin by reopening the original incision made when the implant was placed, typically in the inframammary fold or around the edge of the areola (periareolar).

Once the implant is carefully removed, Dr. Buford may need to excise part of the scar tissue that surrounds the implant (capsule). If this is unnecessary, he will leave the scar tissue behind, where it will deflate and collapse upon itself as your body heals. After the desired results have been achieved, your incisions will be sutured and covered with surgical dressing.

Drains are then placed in each pocket, which generally remain for around 2-3 days following your surgery.  In addition, you will be asked to wrap your chest wall for about a week to allow for optimal compression of the tissue.

After your procedure, you should expect to take it easy at home for a couple of days. Dr. Buford may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort and will give you specific aftercare instructions. After a few days, most patients are able to resume normal, non-strenuous activity.

 

What Will My Breasts Look Like After Removing My Implants?

Every woman (and her breasts!) is different, so there is no standard answer. However, the majority of Dr. Buford's Lone Tree patients who have had their implants removed are left with a pleasing breast shape.

You may experience lost volume in the upper portion of the breast where the implant provided fullness. However, unless your implants were very large or your tissue is lax, you will likely end up with a very happy result.

In certain cases, a lift will be recommended to address this excess skin, but we generally wait for at least six months for tissue settling before suggesting this procedure.

View Before & Afters

Reasons for Breast Augmentation Removal

Though breast augmentation surgery has some of the highest rates of patient satisfaction, breast implants aren't for everyone. Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is typically performed for these main reasons:

  • To address implant leakage or rupture
  • To combat capsular contracture
  • To adjust implant size through breast revision surgery
  • To help a patient who simply no longer wants to have implants

The first step in determining if breast implant removal is the right option for you is to consult with an experienced, board-certified Plastic Surgeon such as Dr. Buford.

The only way to know if you are a candidate is to schedule a consultation with our qualified, experienced, and board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Buford. He tailors your breast augmentation procedure to give you the silhouette you've always dreamed of.

Benefits of Implant Removal

At BEAUTY by BUFORD, we understand that your aesthetic journey is unique — and that sometimes your journey requires breast implant removal.

Whatever the reasons for your breast implant removal, here are some of the key benefits that may help you make the best, most informed decision to fit your needs and aesthetic goals:

  • Improved comfort and natural feel
  • Relief from health concerns
  • Restored body proportions

Recovering From Breast Implant Removal

Recovery from breast implant removal is a crucial phase that significantly influences the overall outcome and your satisfaction with the procedure. While the process can vary depending on individual factors and whether additional procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer were performed, understanding the general recovery timeline and what to expect can help you prepare for a smoother recuperation. Here's an essential guide to navigating the recovery period after breast implant removal.

Immediate Post-Surgery Phase

  • Initial Hours: After the procedure, you'll spend a few hours in a recovery area under observation as the effects of anesthesia wear off. It's normal to experience grogginess and some discomfort, but pain medication can manage these symptoms effectively.
  • First Few Days: Swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort are typical during the initial days following surgery. Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain relief medication and antibiotics to prevent infection. You may also have drains in place to remove excess fluid from the surgical site, which are usually removed within a few days to a week.
  • Support Garments: Wearing a supportive bra is crucial during the early recovery phase. This garment aids in reducing swelling, supporting the breast tissue, and promoting optimal healing. Your surgeon will advise you on how long you should wear the support garment based on your individual case.

Short-term Recovery

  • Activity Restrictions: You should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for the first few weeks post-surgery. However, light walks are encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots.
  • Return to Work and Normal Activities: Many patients can return to work and resume normal, non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks after surgery, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the procedure.
  • Follow-up Visits: Attending scheduled follow-up appointments is essential to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. These visits allow your surgeon to ensure that your recovery is on track and to advise when you can safely resume all normal activities.

Long-term Recovery and Healing

  • Healing of Incisions: The incisions from implant removal will gradually heal and begin to fade over several months. It's important to follow your surgeon's care instructions, such as applying scar treatment products if recommended, to ensure optimal healing and minimal scarring.
  • Final Results: The final results of your breast implant removal, especially if combined with a lift or fat transfer, may take several months to fully manifest. Patience is key as your body adjusts and settles into its new contour.
  • Emotional Adjustments: It's not uncommon to go through a range of emotions as you adjust to your new body image. Support from friends, family, or a professional counselor can be beneficial during this time.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

  • Follow All Post-operative Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon's detailed care instructions can help minimize complications and enhance your healing process.
  • Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritiously: Proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support your body's healing process.
  • Rest and Listen to Your Body: Getting enough rest is crucial for recovery. Pay attention to your body's signals and don't rush your return to activities before you're ready.

Combining Breast Lift and Fat Transfer With Implant Removal

When considering breast implant removal, many patients explore the option of combining this procedure with others to enhance the overall aesthetic outcome. Two popular options that can be performed in conjunction with implant removal are a breast lift (mastopexy) and fat transfer to the breasts. This comprehensive approach can address concerns related to volume, shape, and positioning, providing a natural and rejuvenated breast appearance.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) with Implant Removal

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure that raises and reshapes the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Following implant removal, a breast lift can help address any sagging or loss of firmness that may occur, restoring a more youthful breast profile. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who wish to maintain an uplifted breast appearance without the need for implants.

Key Benefits:

  • Corrects sagging and improves breast shape and position.
  • Enhances breast symmetry.
  • Can reduce the size of enlarged areolas for a more proportionate look.
  • Offers long-lasting results, with a more natural breast contour.

Fat Transfer to Breasts with Implant Removal

Fat transfer to the breasts is an innovative technique that uses liposuction to remove fat from other areas of the body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips) and injects it into the breasts. This method can be an excellent adjunct to breast implant removal for patients seeking to enhance breast volume and shape naturally. Fat transfer provides a modest increase in breast size and can improve breast contours, creating a softer and more natural look.

Key Benefits:

  • Provides a natural alternative to implants for breast augmentation.
  • Enhances breast shape and volume with the patient's own fat.
  • Offers the dual benefit of contouring the donor site, where the fat is harvested.
  • Reduces the potential for allergic reactions or implant-related complications.

Considerations for Combining Procedures

  • Individual Goals: It's essential to discuss your aesthetic goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can recommend the best approach based on your specific needs and the condition of your breasts post-implant removal.
  • Recovery: Combining procedures may extend the recovery period. However, it allows patients to address multiple concerns with a single recovery time, which can be more convenient and ultimately satisfying.
  • Cost: While combining procedures can increase the upfront cost, it may be more cost-effective than undergoing separate surgeries at different times.
  • Results: Patients who combine breast lift and/or fat transfer with implant removal often report high satisfaction rates, as these procedures can complement each other to achieve a balanced, natural-looking breast appearance.

Concerns & Goals

Evaluate your concerns regarding your current implants, whether related to discomfort, aesthetic changes, or health issues.

Additionally, consider your goals for your breasts' appearance. If you desire a more natural look or wish to address specific concerns, breast implant removal may be a suitable option.

Hear From Our Patients

They Go Above & Beyond

The team was friendly, knowledgeable, and great during my EON consultation. I had unusual body issues, and they helped me determine what was best and how to proceed. They went above and beyond!

- Peggy

So Happy With My Results

I’m really happy with my augmentation results. Dr Buford and his team were amazing at listening to my desires and using their incredible experience to deliver.

- Peggy
Dr. Buford

Meet Dr. Buford

Denver board-certified plastic surgeon Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS, PCEO's private cosmetic plastic surgery clinic is located in Lone Tree, Colorado. His plastic surgery procedures are performed at an accredited outpatient facility minutes from his office in the heart of the Denver Tech Center or in-office at BEAUTY by BUFORD in Lone Tree.

Dr. Buford is a graduate of the Baker/Stuzin/Baker Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship in Miami, making him one of the few cosmetic Plastic Surgeons in the Rocky Mountain Region to complete formal post-graduate training. Dr. Buford holds higher degrees from the Georgetown University School of Medicine and the University of California, San Diego.

Breast Implant Removal FAQs

Ready for Your Personal Consultation?

If you're considering breast implant removal in Denver, Dr.  Buford will be happy to meet with you to answer your questions and help you understand all aspects of the implant removal process. Contact us today at our Lone Tree plastic surgery practice to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Buford and restore the breasts that you love.