Breast Implant Removal

There are various reasons patients have their breast implants removed, such as changes in aesthetic preferences and concerns about their health. Women experiencing these issues travel to see Dr. Eric Wright for breast implant removal (explant surgery) in Little Rock from Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Conway, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff, throughout greater Arkansas, across the country, and internationally for his specialized expertise in these complex breast procedures.

Breast Implant Removal
 Before & After Photos

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What is explant surgery?

Explant surgery is a procedure performed to remove breast implants and all or part of the capsule of scar tissue that forms around the implants and restore the breasts to an aesthetic, attractive shape. 

Why do women have explant surgery?

Women choose to have their implants removed after breast augmentation for a variety of personal reasons, which include:

  • Implants placed many years ago
  • Ruptured or malpositioned implants
  • Changes in aesthetic desires

Recently, numerous women have expressed concern regarding systemic health-related complications, collectively known as “breast implant illness” (BII). Though symptoms can vary between patients, common presenting conditions include fatigue, autoimmune conditions, or cognitive changes.  Also, textured implants have been recalled from the market due to an association with a specific type of lymphoma cancer. 

No matter the issue, Dr. Wright has extensive experience in breast implant procedures and is proud to help women feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies.

How is explant surgery performed?

Explant surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with the patient under general anesthesia. It can take 2 to 3 hours to complete. This procedure is performed using an incision in the breast crease, which allows for safe access to the implant, capsule, and subsequent muscle repair for implants placed below the muscle. 

When indicated, removal of the capsule is commonly performed as an “en bloc capsulectomy,” which means that the capsule is removed with the implant inside it.

Will my breasts sag after implant removal?

Sagging is common after implant removal. Dr. Wright may discuss the benefits of a simultaneous breast lift (mastopexy) after he removes the implants to improve the shape of your breasts. The need for a breast lift depends on numerous factors, including:

  • Implant size
  • Implant age
  • Breast skin elasticity
  • Amount of breast tissue present
  • Physical exam findings

Various techniques are utilized with the breast lift to preserve volume and lift and tighten the breast skin.  

Breast implant removal is more complex than traditional breast surgery due to several factors. Dr. Wright is fellowship-trained specifically in aesthetic and reconstructive/microsurgery breast surgery. He has extensive experience in this procedure and has helped countless women safely achieve their new look and health. 

Plastic Surgeon Dr. Wright profile image

About Dr. Wright

An Arkansas native, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Wright has spent over a decade helping Little Rock women and men look and feel their best with both reconstructive and plastic surgery options.

Meet Dr. Wright Logos for UAMS, Stanford Residency, Harvard Medical School, MGH, The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc., The Aesthetic Society, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Logos for UAMS, Stanford Residency, Harvard Medical School, MGH, The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc., The Aesthetic Society, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Logos for UAMS, Stanford Residency, Harvard Medical School, MGH, The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc., The Aesthetic Society, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

How long is recovery from breast implant removal?

Recovery time after implant removal varies with the specifics of the surgery. If a capsulectomy is performed and the capsule is difficult to remove, recovery may be longer than if just the implants are removed. The recovery is similar for implant removal with and without a breast lift.  

Out-of-town patients can travel home 2 to 3 days after the surgery with virtual or in-office follow-up appointments scheduled at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months to allow for continued monitoring of recovery. 

What should I expect after getting my breast implants removed?

At the time of surgery, Dr. Wright uses either nerve blocks or a postoperative pain device to allow for an easy recovery. Following the surgery, patients will be placed in either a supportive wrap or garment.  Surgical drains placed during surgery will remain until the volume of fluid decreases. Drain removal typically occurs 5 to 7 days after the procedure. Physical activity will be limited for approximately 4 weeks to allow time for chest muscles and skin incisions to heal. 

How do I know if breast implant removal is right for me?

Choosing to remove breast implants is a very personal decision. The reasons vary widely, and Dr. Wright is sensitive to each patient’s unique needs and desires. Many explant patients have reported symptoms of BII, such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, or autoimmune problems. Others have experienced implant rupture and want to remove the shell and any leaking silicone material.

Overall, good candidates for breast implant removal surgery are women who have:

  • Health concerns
  • Breast implant failure
  • Breast implant complications
  • A desire to reduce the breasts back to their previous size

During your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Wright, you’ll be able to discuss your issues and see if breast implant removal is right for you.

A Reputation Built on Results

Everyone is very nice. When I sent a email or text they got back with in a timely manner. Dr. Wright...
If I could rate this Wonderful and amazing place with beautiful people a 10, I definitely WOULD!!! They’re...
I had an explant,en bloc with lift. Dr Eric Wright and team are very professional, friendly and knowledgeable....
I’ve had 2 surgeries, various procedures, done by Dr. Wright and he has been excellent. He is kind,...

Traveling for Treatment?
Try Our 3-Step Process

If you’re visiting Little Rock to see Dr. Wright, our patient care team will help make your trip easy and enjoyable.

  1. Have Your Virtual Consultation
  2. Make Your Travel Plans
  3. Prepare for Your Surgery & Recovery
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Request Your Consultation

If you would like to have your breast implants removed, request a consultation online or call our Little Rock practice at (501) 575-0088. For out-of-town patients, Dr. Wright offers appointments from the comfort of your home via telemedicine consults.

RealSelf Q&A with Eric Wright, MD
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