Breast implant removal is becoming more and more common. Women who had breast augmentation done at a younger age and have become mothers are increasingly having their breast implants removed. Breast implant malfunction and capsular contracture are other reasons women opt to have their breast implants removed. Whatever your reasons may be for no longer wanting breast implants, you should choose a plastic surgeon who can perform this procedure properly and safely.
If your breast implants have ruptured or if you have developed a capsular contracture, you may also need removal of the capsule with the implant. The capsule refers to the scar that forms around an implant. In some patients, the scar can harden and distort the shape of the breast or become painful. This would be an indication for removal of the breast capsule and replacement with a new implant if desired. The lifespan of an implant is not indefinite and the general recommendations for implant exchange are ten to fifteen years after augmentation. If you no longer desire implants, the capsulectomy can be combined with a breast lift to address any excess skin or deflated appearance of the breasts after implant removal.