What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, involves the surgical removal of saline or silicone implants, and when necessary, the surrounding scar capsule.

Explant surgery may be performed for several reasons:

  • To relieve discomfort
  • To rule out implant rupture
  • To treat complications such as capsular contracture

Additionally, explant surgery may be conducted to address symptoms associated with Breast Implant Illness (BII). This condition includes symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, “brain fog,” and rashes that some women report experiencing after receiving breast implants. Many patients find that their symptoms improve after the removal of the implants.

In 2023 alone, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recorded more than 25,000 reconstructive implant removals, highlighting the increasing demand for this procedure.

Woman in a white bathing suit smiling with her hand on her cheek

What Are the Benefits of Breast Implant Removal?

  • Removing the implant and capsule can ease the pressure, tightness, or pain that capsular contracture creates
  • Eliminating the device removes concerns about silent rupture, manufacturer recalls, or future replacement surgery
  • Without implants, mammograms and MRIs produce clearer images, reducing the chance of false alarms or repeated imaging
  • A lighter chest can improve posture, athletic performance, and overall body mechanics
  • You no longer need routine implant monitoring, warranty upgrades, or revision procedures down the road
  • Once the implants are out, you have the freedom to pursue a breast lift, additional fat grafting, or no further surgery at all—whatever best suits your lifestyle and aesthetic vision

Who Is a Good Candidate For Implant Removal With Fat Grafting?

You may be an ideal candidate if you:

  • Want or need your implants removed for health, aesthetic, or lifestyle reasons
  • Have adequate donor fat (abdomen, flanks, thighs) for grafting
  • Are in good overall health and are a non-smoker
  • Maintain a stable weight and realistic expectations
  • Understand that fat grafting adds volume but cannot replicate the exact size of large implants
Logo media

Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

During a personal consultation, Dr. Zenn will:

  • Review your medical and surgical history
  • Examine your breasts and potential donor areas
  • Discuss imaging or lab work, if needed
  • Explain surgical options (partial vs. total capsulectomy, en bloc removal)
  • Estimate fat-graft volumes to achieve your desired contour
  • Provide a custom quote and recovery timeline

This relaxed, in-depth visit ensures you feel educated and empowered to decide.

Banner media

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal

  • Obtain any requested imaging (e.g., ultrasound or MRI) to evaluate implant integrity
  • Stop using nicotine products at least four weeks in advance
  • Adjust medications and supplements per Dr. Zenn’s directions
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and assist you for 24 hours
  • Fill prescriptions and purchase compression garments before surgery
  • Maintain a stable weight and follow a nutrient-dense diet to optimize fat-cell survival

What Does Breast Implant Removal Entail?

After anesthesia, your existing incision is reopened to remove the implant and, when necessary, the capsule. Liposuction then harvests fat from areas of excess, commonly the abdomen, flanks, or thighs.

The fat is purified and carefully layered beneath the breast skin, within the residual pocket, and around the pectoral borders to restore soft, feminine curves. Clinical studies confirm that immediate fat grafting can successfully replenish volume and improve symmetry without additional scars.

If you desire more volume than a single session can safely provide, staged grafting procedures can be planned.

What Will Recovery Be Like After Surgery?

Most patients return to desk work within one week, though bruising and swelling may persist for 10–14 days in both the chest and donor sites.

We suggest the following:

  • Wear your surgical bra and liposuction garment continuously for the first two weeks
  • Sleep on your back with your torso elevated
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and swimming for 4–6 weeks
  • Do not massage the breasts or donor areas until cleared
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a stable weight—large fluctuations can diminish graft take

Dr. Zenn will schedule regular follow-ups to monitor healing and fat-graft retention.

Dr. Zenn in the OR

Why Choose Dr. Zenn for Breast Implant Removal in Raleigh?

Dr. Zenn is a highly respected plastic surgeon in Raleigh, known for his exceptional skill and expertise. Recognized as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons for Breast Procedures by Newsweek from 2021 to 2024, he is dedicated to delivering outstanding results with precision and care.

  • Plastic Surgery Residency: Harvard / Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Breast and Facial Surgery Fellowship: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  • General Surgery Residency: Cornell / NY Presbyterian Hospital
  • Medical Degree: Cornell Medical College (Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society)
  • Undergraduate Degree: University of Pennsylvania (Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society)
  • Former Vice Chief and Full Professor at Duke Plastic Surgery
  • Directed Duke Plastic Surgery Resident Training for 10 years
  • Over 25 years of experience performing thousands of complex facial surgeries
  • Internationally recognized by peers as a leading expert and master surgeon
  • Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery 

Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Zenn in Raleigh, NC, to discuss breast implant removal.

Breast Implant Removal With Fat Grafting FAQs

How much does breast implant removal cost?

Do my breast implants have to be replaced every 10 years?

Can any other procedures be combined with breast implant removal?

How long does the procedure take?

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

Are there any risks associated with breast implant removal?

How many post-op appointments will I need?

Will insurance cover my procedure?

How much does breast implant removal cost?

Fees vary based on operating-room time, anesthesia, and whether fat grafting or total capsulectomy is performed. After your consultation, you’ll receive an individualized quote.

Do my breast implants have to be replaced every 10 years?

No hard-and-fast rule exists, but the FDA notes that implants are not lifetime devices; many women need revision or removal within 10–15 years.

Can any other procedures be combined with breast implant removal?

Yes—breast lift, liposuction contouring, or additional fat-grafting sessions are commonly paired for optimal shape.

How long does the procedure take?

Surgery typically lasts two to three hours, depending on capsule complexity and grafting volume.

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

Most explant procedures are performed under general anesthesia, though selected cases may be done with IV sedation plus local anesthetic.

Are there any risks associated with breast implant removal?

Every surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection, contour irregularities, or the need for revision. Removing scar capsules can increase operative time and recovery.

How many post-op appointments will I need?

Plan on three to four visits within the first three months, then annual check-ins to evaluate long-term results.

Will insurance cover my procedure?

Coverage is rare for cosmetic explantation. However, removal for medically documented complications (e.g., rupture, contracture) or reconstruction after mastectomy may qualify—our team can help you navigate pre-authorization.

Sources

Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (919) 366 7233.
Now Offering - InMode!

Now offering the newest lasers from InMode

Explore the benefits of InMode's advanced laser technologies:

Contact Us