Breast Implant Removal in Houston

There are many reasons to undergo a breast implant removal. Breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, but most will eventually need to be replaced.

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Sometimes patients wish to return to their natural size, and other times they desire a new implant that is either bigger or smaller. In a few rare cases, breast implants can make a patient sick.

If you are interested in a breast implant removal surgery in Houston don't hesitate to contact us.

What is a breast implant removal?

Breast implant removal, also known as a breast explant, is a complex procedure that requires a skilled and meticulous surgeon. In addition to removing the implant, scar tissue or silicon from implant leaks must be carefully removed and the area cleaned. If desired, new implants are inserted. Finally, the area is sculpted to maintain a natural look.

Breast implant removal and breast lift

After implants are removed, excess skin or skin laxity may cause the area to sag or look droopy. When this occurs, your breast tissue needs to be recontoured to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Unwanted skin will be removed, and the breasts will be repositioned higher on the chest. If desired, a fat transfer may be conducted to add natural volume to the breasts.

Breast implant removal - capsulectomy

Capsular contracture is a semi-common side effect that many patients experience after a breast augmentation. Capsular contracture is when excessive scar tissue develops around the implant and affects its placement and movement. In some cases, capsular contractures can cause stiff and painful breasts. Capsular contracture often happens when silicone implants leak or if there is a postoperative infection after the original augmentation.

A capsulectomy is required to correct this problem. There are two major types: a standard capsulectomy and an en bloc capsulectomy. In a standard capsulectomy, the implant is removed, and the scar tissue capsule is removed. This approach is most suitable for implants placed under the pectoralis muscle. The en bloc capsulectomy removes both the implant and the scar tissue capsule together as a whole. En-bloc capsulectomies are typically only possible with implants placed over the pectoralis muscle.

Breast implant illness

In rare cases, patients develop Breast Implant Illness (BIA). While further research is needed, BIA is thought to be linked to the immune system's response to breast implants. BIA may take years to surface and, if left untreated, could lead to other medical problems.

Symptoms of BIA vary from person to person, but some common experiences include the list below. Since other underlying conditions could cause these symptoms, it is crucial to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Swelling and joint pain
Fever, migraines, headaches
Insomnia, anxiety
Muscle aches
Brain fog/memory issues
Hair loss, rashes

Is a breast implant removal right for me?

You're a candidate for the procedure if you're ready to part with your breast implants. However, some health issues might demand a breast implant removal. They include:

Breast implant illness
Leaking or deflated implants
You want to replace current implants with bigger or smaller ones
Desire to return to natural breast size
Capsular contracture
Health issues
Breast Implant Illness (BIA), or concerns about contracting BIA

Your Recovery

After your breast implant removal in Houston, Dr. Lind will develop a personalized recovery plan for you. It is normal to experience soreness, tenderness, and bruising afterward. You will be given antibiotics to prevent infection and prescription pain medications to keep discomfort to a minimum. Recovery will be similar to that of a breast augmentation.

Most patients can expect to return to their desk job and social activities in about a week or two. Patients must wait to engage in driving, vigorous exercise, and heavy lifting until cleared by Dr. Lind. Full recovery takes about four to six weeks. Light walks are suggested to maintain good blood circulation, which will help accelerate healing.

Exceptional training and bedside manner

Experience is vital to safe breast implant removal. When looking for a surgeon for your needs, it's best to look for one with substantial experience and proven results. Dr. Lind is a double board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Houston, Spring, and The Woodlands, TX. Breast surgeries are a specialty of his, and he has performed countless revisional procedures such as implant removal.

Dr. Lind was trained in surgery at two nationally highly ranked hospitals, Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas. He completed a demanding 3-year plastic surgery fellowship at the renowned Cleveland Clinic in Florida. While there, Dr. Lind won the Cleveland Clinic Florida Caregiver Celebrations Appreciation Award for outstanding patient care. Contact Lind Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with him today.