At Daniel Brown, MD Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, explant surgery refers to the removal of previously placed breast implants. This procedure is designed to address a range of patient needs—from resolving implant-related issues to simply achieving a more natural breast aesthetic. Unlike breast augmentation, which adds volume to the breasts, explant surgery focuses on carefully, safely and aesthetically reversing a prior implant placement.

What Does Explant Surgery Involve?

Before the procedure begins, Dr. Daniel Brown consults with each patient to understand their goals and discuss the recommended surgical approach. On the day of surgery, a board certified anesthetist administers anesthesia, ensuring the patient’s comfort. Dr. Brown often uses the original augmentation incisions to minimize additional scarring. Through these incisions, the breast implants are carefully removed.

For some patients, an en-bloc capsulectomy may be indicated. This more complex technique involves removing the implant along with the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) in one piece. While not always necessary, an en-bloc capsulectomy can be beneficial in certain scenarios where the capsule has hardened or compromised the shape of the breast.

Why Do Patients Choose Explant Surgery?
Patients seek explant surgery for numerous reasons:

1. Changing Aesthetic Goals: Personal tastes evolve. Some individuals originally chose implants for fullness and projection but now prefer a more natural breast contour that better complements their body as it changes with age, weight fluctuations, or lifestyle shifts.
2. Implant-Related Concerns: Over time, breast implants may develop complications such as capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue), implant rupture, or visible distortions or asymmetry. Explant surgery can greatly improve these problems by removing implants that are no longer performing as intended.
3. Health and Safety Considerations: While breast implants are widely used and considered safe, some patients opt for removal to eliminate potential long-term concerns. Patients who self-identify with symptoms commonly grouped as Breast Implant Illness (BII)—such as fatigue, anxiety, or chronic discomfort—may choose explant surgery in pursuit of improved well-being. Dr. Brown acknowledges the importance of patient peace of mind and collaborates closely with each individual to achieve a mutually agreed upon plan in order to attempt to assure the most satisfying results.

How Is Explant Surgery Performed?

Before the procedure, Dr. Brown conducts a thorough consultation to understand your motivations, health history, and desired outcome. On the day of surgery:

1. Anesthesia: A licensed anesthetist administers general or IV sedation anesthesia as needed for your comfort and safety based on your procedure’s level of complexity.  Ask Dr. Brown if you could be a candidate for minimal sedation anesthesia in order to speed your recovery. 
2. Incisions and Implant Removal: Dr. Brown often uses existing incision sites from the original augmentation to minimize additional scarring. Through these incisions, he carefully removes the breast implants. In certain cases, a breast lift may be necessary for best result or an en-bloc capsulectomy may be performed, removing the implant and its surrounding scar tissue in one piece to address complications more comprehensively.
3. Addressing Breast Shape After Explant:
   • Fat Transfer: For patients who wish to maintain some volume after removal, fat can be harvested from another area of the body (such as the abdomen or thighs) and transferred to the breasts, resulting in a soft, natural fullness.
   • Breast Lift: If excess skin or sagging is anticipated after implant removal—often due to aging, weight changes, or breastfeeding—a breast lift may be recommended. This procedure restores a firmer, more youthful shape.
4. Closure and Aftercare: Once the implants are removed and any additional procedures are completed, the incisions are carefully closed. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation, and you will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care to support an optimal recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after explant surgery typically mirrors or is simpler than that of an initial augmentation. Patients may experience mild swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Dr. Brown may place surgical drains to help prevent fluid buildup. Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within 2 to 3 days and at most, approximately a week, by following the provided post-operative instructions for optimal healing.

In essence, what is explant surgery? It’s a carefully tailored procedure or combination of procedures custom-tailored to your individual anatomy and preferences at Daniel Brown, MD Cosmetic Plastic Surgery designed to remove breast implants and restore a more natural, comfortable breast appearance—all while prioritizing patient safety and aesthetic goals.