Explant (Breast Implant Removal) Topics
A Personalized Surgical Approach With Dr. Robert Cohen
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Cohen is internationally recognized for his expertise in aesthetic breast surgery and complex breast revision. With extensive experience, advanced training, and a meticulous surgical approach, he performs breast explant surgery with careful attention to both form and function. In his boutique Beverly Hills practice, patients receive individualized care focused on safety, comfort, and refined aesthetic outcomes. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Cohen to discuss your goals and explore your options.
What Is Breast Explant Surgery?
Breast explant surgery is the surgical removal of previously placed breast implants. Women may choose breast explant surgery for several reasons, including complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, malposition, or rippling. Others pursue removal because their aesthetic preferences have changed or because implants no longer fit their lifestyle.
Depending on the clinical situation, the procedure may involve removing the implants alone or removing part or all of the surrounding scar tissue capsule. In some cases, Dr. Cohen may recommend combining implant removal with additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat grafting, to improve breast shape and maintain balanced proportions after the implants are removed.
Benefits of Breast Explant Surgery
- Relief from implant-related complications: Explant surgery can address concerns such as capsular contracture, rupture, malposition, or visible rippling.
- Improved physical comfort: Removing implants may reduce pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest.
- A more natural breast contour: Many women choose explant surgery to return to a breast shape that better reflects their current aesthetic goals.
- Reduced concern about implant maintenance: Some patients feel more comfortable moving forward without implants.
- Opportunities for aesthetic refinement: Procedures such as breast lift or fat grafting can help reshape and enhance breast contour after implant removal.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Explant Surgery?
Women considering breast explant surgery in Beverly Hills often want implant removal because of discomfort, implant complications, health concerns, or a change in aesthetic preference.
Ideal candidates are in good overall health, maintain realistic expectations, and want a carefully planned procedure designed to support both appearance and long-term well-being.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen for Breast Explant Surgery?
Breast explant surgery often requires the expertise of a surgeon who is experienced in both aesthetic breast surgery and complex revision procedures. Dr. Cohen is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his meticulous technique, thoughtful surgical planning, and natural-looking results.
Patients throughout Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area trust his ability to address both straightforward and complex implant removal cases with precision and care.
Explant Beverly Hills Testimonial
"Explant can be intimidating, as you’re unsure about how much tissue you’ll have left or what the results will be. For me, the added complexity of skin grafts and asymmetry made it even more daunting. …
"I feel lighter, look thinner, and my clothes fit better than ever. My breasts are fuller and more beautiful than I imagined … Dr. Cohen is truly an artist, and I’m beyond happy with my results. My husband agrees, saying it was 'money well spent! ' Choose Dr. Cohen—you won’t be disappointed."
Your Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Cohen will evaluate your implants, breast anatomy, and surgical history. He will discuss the condition of the implants and surrounding capsule, explain whether capsulectomy or contouring procedures may be appropriate, and outline the surgical options available. The goal of this visit is to provide a clear understanding of the procedure and develop a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
How Much Does Breast Explant Surgery Cost?
The cost of breast explant surgery varies depending on factors such as implant type, surgical complexity, and whether additional procedures like a breast lift or fat grafting are performed at the same time. During your consultation, Dr. Cohen will provide detailed information about the surgical plan and associated fees based on your specific needs.
What to Expect During Breast Explant Surgery
Breast explant surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. When possible, Dr. Cohen uses the original augmentation incisions to remove the implants, which helps minimize additional scarring.
After the implants are removed, he evaluates the surrounding capsule to determine whether partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy, or another approach is appropriate. If needed, additional procedures may be performed to refine breast shape and maintain natural-looking proportions.
Breast Explant Recovery and Results
Recovery after breast explant surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional techniques such as capsulectomy or a breast lift are performed. Most patients wear a supportive surgical bra, experience temporary swelling and soreness, and return to light daily activities within about a week. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically avoided for several weeks.
As healing progresses, swelling gradually subsides and the breast tissues settle into their new contour. Many patients experience both improved comfort and renewed confidence with a result that looks balanced and natural.
Related Breast Procedures
- Breast lift: Elevates and reshapes the breasts after implant removal to create a firmer, more youthful contour.
- Fat transfer breast augmentation: Uses purified fat from your own body to restore subtle, natural-looking breast volume.
- Breast revision surgery: Corrects aesthetic concerns or complications related to previous breast procedures.
- Breast augmentation: Enhances breast size and shape using implants for patients seeking increased volume.
- Breast reduction: Reduces excess breast tissue and reshapes the breasts to improve comfort and proportion.
FAQs
Will my nipples change in sensation after breast explant surgery?
Temporary changes in nipple sensation can occur after surgery. In most cases, sensation gradually improves as the nerves heal.
Can breast explant surgery be performed many years after augmentation?
Yes. Breast implants can be removed many years after the original surgery, even if they have been in place for decades.
What happens to the space where the implant used to sit?
After implant removal, the surrounding tissue gradually adapts and the pocket typically contracts over time as healing progresses.
Will my breast size be much smaller after implant removal?
Your natural breast tissue remains after the implant is removed, but overall volume will be reduced. Some patients choose additional procedures to refine shape or restore subtle fullness.
Do implants always need to be replaced at a certain age?
There is no specific age at which implants must be removed or replaced. Decisions are typically based on implant condition, patient preference, and overall health considerations.
Can explant surgery help with breast asymmetry?
If asymmetry is related to implant position or implant complications, removing the implants and reshaping the breast tissue may improve overall balance.
Will pathology testing ever be performed on the capsule?
In certain situations, surgeons may send capsule tissue or fluid for laboratory evaluation depending on surgical findings and patient history.
How long should I wait before being fitted for new bras after surgery?
Patients are typically advised to wait until swelling has decreased and the breasts have settled before being professionally fitted for new bras.
Is it possible to combine explant surgery with other cosmetic procedures?
In appropriate candidates, explant surgery may sometimes be combined with other procedures depending on surgical goals and overall health.
Will my scars be worse than they were after breast augmentation?
When possible, Dr. Cohen uses the same incision locations from the original augmentation to minimize additional scarring, although scar appearance varies depending on healing characteristics.
Restore Balance and Confidence
For women who no longer feel that breast implants reflect their current goals, breast explant surgery in Beverly Hills can offer a meaningful change. Dr. Cohen combines advanced surgical training, refined aesthetic judgment, and a personalized approach to help patients achieve comfortable, natural-looking results. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about breast explant surgery in Beverly Hills.