Breast Implant Removal
Denver
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.
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.
1 of 5
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
At BEAUTY by BUFORD, the starting price for breast implant removal in Denver typically ranges from $7,000 to $8,500. Your final cost depends on your implant history, scar tissue, anesthesia, facility fees, whether a capsule needs to be removed, and whether your procedure includes additional reshaping, a breast lift, or fat transfer.
Breast implant removal can be a straightforward procedure in some cases, but it can also become more complex depending on how the body has healed around the implants. Dr. Buford will evaluate implant position, capsule thickness, breast tissue quality, skin laxity, nipple position, and any symptoms such as firmness, pain, or distortion. A patient who simply wants implants removed may have a different plan than someone with capsular contracture, implant rupture, significant sagging, or changes in breast shape after years of having implants.
Some parts of the plan may be based on preference, while others may be needed to create a safe and balanced result. For example, patients may choose implant removal alone, but if the breast tissue has stretched or the nipple sits lower than desired, a breast lift may be recommended. If scar tissue is thick, painful, or contributing to breast hardness, capsule removal may also be part of the surgical plan. Dr. Buford will explain what is optional, what is recommended, and what your anatomy requires during consultation.
The cost of breast implant removal at BEAUTY by BUFORD reflects the care involved in safely removing implants while protecting the surrounding breast tissue. Patients are investing in a board-certified plastic surgeon, an accredited surgical setting, anesthesia care, careful dissection, capsule assessment, surgical planning, and post-operative follow-up. Removal is not only about taking implants out. The breast still needs to heal, settle, and look as natural as possible afterward.
Lower pricing may seem appealing, but implant removal requires careful judgment. Removing implants without accounting for skin stretch, tissue support, capsule behavior, or the final breast shape can leave patients disappointed or lead to additional surgery later. Dr. Buford’s approach focuses on safety, comfort, and a result that supports your body after implants.
BEAUTY by BUFORD offers patient financing options to help make breast implant removal easier to plan for. Financing can allow qualified patients to divide the cost of surgery into monthly payments rather than paying the full amount upfront.
PatientFi, Alphaeon Credit, CareCredit, and Cherry Financing offer a simple application process and can help patients choose a payment structure that works with their budget. To explore financing for your breast implant removal, Apply Now.
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to take out breast implants from a previous breast augmentation. It can be done for various reasons, including implant complications, a desire to return to natural breast size, personal preference changes, or health concerns.
Ideal candidates are those experiencing complications with their current implants, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or dissatisfaction with the size or appearance of their implants. Additionally, those who wish to remove their implants due to lifestyle changes, personal preferences, or health concerns may also be good candidates.
Yes, breast implant removal can be combined with other procedures for enhanced results. Commonly, it's combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) to address sagging and improve breast shape after implant removal. Fat transfer to the breasts is another option for adding natural volume without implants.
The procedure typically involves making an incision, often using the same incisions as the original breast augmentation to minimize additional scarring. The surgeon then removes the implants and any scar tissue (capsule) if necessary. If combined with a breast lift or fat transfer, those procedures are performed sequentially.
Recovery varies depending on the individual and whether additional procedures were performed. Generally, most patients can return to work and light activities within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery and final results may take several months to become fully apparent.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast sensation, and dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome. Discussing these risks with your surgeon is important to make an informed decision.
The initial swelling and changes may take several weeks to subside. If a breast lift or fat transfer is performed concurrently, it may take a few months before the final results are apparent as your breasts settle into their new shape.
Scars are an inevitable part of any surgical procedure. However, surgeons typically use the same incisions made during breast augmentation to minimize additional scarring. Over time, these scars should fade and become less noticeable.
Preparation may include getting lab tests or a medical evaluation, adjusting current medications, avoiding aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and stopping smoking. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions based on your specific situation.
With decades of experience, Dr. Buford has honed his skills to deliver exceptional results. Whether you're seeking to refine or rejuvenate your naturally beautiful appearance, Dr. Buford's personalized approach ensures that your needs are met with world-class skill and precision. Schedule a consultation today to put Dr. Buford’s expertise to work for you.
