Approximately 300,000 women undergo the procedure each year. But is this procedure losing its popularity? Recent media attention on celebrities like model Chrissy Tiegen, who recently chose to have her implants removed, has shed new light on breast augmentation and breast implant removal. Tiegen stated in a Tweet that she decided to remove her implants so she could zip a dress in her size or lay on her belly comfortably.

 

Jason Miller, MD, DMD, Nebraska Medicine plastic and reconstructive surgeon, says that while he has seen a slight uptick in breast implant removals over the last couple of years, breast augmentation continues to lead the nation as the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure. Dr. Miller says he typically performs a handful of implant removals each year. Nationwide, about 45,000 women had breast implant removal surgery in 2017, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Just like fashion, women’s taste for breasts also changes. According to the ASPS, some women are choosing to remove their implants in exchange for a more subtle, natural and athletic look to their breasts. Instead of breast implants, they are opting for a breast lift to achieve a perkier look without the larger size.

 

Some of the most common reasons women choose to have their implants removed, says Dr. Miller, include:

  • Cosmetic reasons - they are not happy with the size or appearance of their breasts anymore
  • Concern for cancer - certain textured surface implants may be linked to a rare cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Surgeons at Village Pointe Aesthetic Surgery do not use this type of implant
  • Breast implant illness - a small number of women report vague symptoms that may be related to breast implant surgery. These symptoms can be quite varied and include fogginess, pain, dizziness and autoimmune symptoms
  • The current breast implants have exceeded their longevity. Signs that breast implants may need to be removed or replaced include: hardening of the breast known as capsular contracture; movement of the implant, making them look uneven; and deflation or change in shape, which can be caused by a rupture in the implant

No matter what your reason for removing your breast implants, the procedure can be customized to fit your needs and goals. The procedure is safe and typically takes one to two hours, says Dr. Miller. To minimize scarring, Dr. Miller says an incision is made on each side of the breast in the same place the incision was made when your implants were put in. You will be sent home with drainage tubes inside the breast area that are usually removed about a week later. Most women can resume normal activities within a few weeks.

 

Before having your implants removed, here are four things Dr. Miller suggests you should consider:

  1. Why are you having your implants removed and what is your goal. “We want women to have reasonable expectations and to be happy with the results over the long term,” says Dr. Miller.
  2. What options are available when you have the procedure done. “You may have sagging after the implants are removed,” says Dr. Miller. “Some women choose to have a breast lift to tighten the skin or to have fat injected into the breast area after the implants are removed. This is done by performing a liposuction procedure to another area of the body such as the tummy and using that fat to provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
  3. Schedule the procedure to accommodate the healing and recovery period. You may need to take some time off work to allow for adequate recovery.
  4. Choose a board certified plastic surgeon. While complications are rare with this procedure, to achieve the best results, choose someone who is experienced, skilled and trained at performing this procedure and with whom you have a high comfort level.

Considering breast implant removal? To schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our Nebraska Medicine plastic and reconstructive surgeons, call 402.596.4000.