Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, safely removes breast implants for patients experiencing complications, health concerns, or simply ready for a change. Dr. Neavin specializes in comprehensive explant procedures with careful attention to restoring natural breast contours.
Schedule Consultation Call (310) 858-8811Breast implant removal (explant surgery) is a surgical procedure to remove silicone or saline breast implants. Unlike breast revision surgery where implants are replaced, explant surgery often involves permanent removal without replacement.
The procedure typically includes removal of the surrounding scar tissue capsule (capsulectomy) and may be combined with a breast lift or fat grafting to restore natural breast contours.
"Many patients tell me they finally feel like themselves again after explant surgery. Whether it's relief from symptoms or simply returning to their natural body, the transformation goes beyond the physical."
Dr. Neavin works closely with each patient to understand their reasons for removal and creates a personalized surgical plan to achieve their desired outcome—whether that's simple removal, removal with lifting, or removal with natural volume restoration using fat transfer.
Women seek breast implant removal for many reasons, from health concerns to lifestyle changes. Every reason is equally valid.
Systemic symptoms some patients attribute to their implants, including fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog
Hardened scar tissue causing breast firmness, distortion, or discomfort
Silicone leak or saline deflation requiring removal
Personal preference to return to natural breasts—"I'm done with them"
Implants feel too large, heavy, or no longer match current body or lifestyle
Visible implant folds through the skin causing aesthetic concerns
Implant shifting, bottoming out, or asymmetry
Proactive removal after 10-20 years to prevent potential complications
When breast implants are removed, Dr. Neavin typically also removes the scar tissue capsule that forms around the implant. The method depends on your specific situation.
The implant and surrounding capsule are removed together as one intact unit, without opening the capsule. This prevents any implant material from contacting surrounding tissue.
Ruptured implants, BIA-ALCL concerns, patients who want complete removal of all material
The entire capsule is removed, but the implant is taken out first, then the capsule is removed in pieces. All scar tissue is completely eliminated.
Capsular contracture, BII concerns, when en bloc isn't technically possible due to chest wall attachment
Only a portion of the capsule is removed, typically the areas that are thickened or problematic. The remaining thin capsule is left in place.
Patients replacing implants, minimal capsule involvement, when preservation of tissue is preferred
BII refers to a wide range of systemic symptoms some patients experience with breast implants. While not yet an official medical diagnosis, the FDA acknowledges these concerns and now requires manufacturers to include information about systemic symptoms.
Multiple studies report that over 80% of patients with BII symptoms experience significant improvement after explant surgery. Symptoms often begin improving within 30 days of removal, with continued improvement over several months.
Importantly, studies show that symptom improvement occurs regardless of whether a partial, total, or en bloc capsulectomy is performed—the key is removal of the implants themselves.
While I cannot guarantee that explant surgery will resolve BII symptoms, I take every patient's concerns seriously. Together, we'll discuss your symptoms, review the research, and create a surgical plan that gives you the best chance at relief while achieving your aesthetic goals.
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is a rare cancer of the immune system—not breast cancer—that can develop around certain textured breast implants.
BIA-ALCL is rare, with an estimated lifetime risk of 1:2,207 to 1:86,029 for patients with textured implants. It typically develops 7-10 years after implant surgery and is most associated with highly textured implants, particularly Allergan BIOCELL (now recalled).
When caught early, BIA-ALCL is highly curable with surgery alone (implant removal and complete capsulectomy). The 5-year survival rate is over 90% with early detection and appropriate treatment.
Important: The FDA does not recommend removing textured implants in patients without symptoms. However, if you have textured implants and notice any changes, schedule an evaluation promptly.
Many patients worry about their appearance after explant surgery. Understanding the healing process—including the "fluffing" phenomenon—helps set realistic expectations.
Breasts appear flat or deflated—this is normal and temporary
Swelling begins to resolve, tissue starts to settle
Breast tissue reshapes, natural volume returns
Breasts reach their final natural shape and position
"I finally feel like myself again. Dr. Neavin took my concerns seriously when other surgeons dismissed them. Within weeks of my explant surgery, my fatigue and brain fog started lifting. I only wish I had done this sooner."— Explant Patient, Beverly Hills
"Breast implant removal is about more than just taking out implants—it's about listening to your concerns, understanding your goals, and helping you feel comfortable in your body again. I approach every explant patient with the same care and precision I would want for my own family."
Review your symptoms and goals, examine your current implants, discuss capsulectomy options and additional procedures
1-3 hour outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Implants and capsule removed through incision in breast crease
Go home same day. Drains may be placed for 5-7 days. Compression bra worn for several weeks
Return to work in 1-2 weeks. Full activity at 4-6 weeks. Final results visible at 6-12 months
Mild to moderate discomfort, managed with medication
Drains removed if placed, incisions checked
Return to desk work, light daily activities resume
Exercise resumes, most restrictions lifted
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Neavin to discuss your breast implant removal options. Whether you're experiencing symptoms, complications, or simply ready for a change, you'll receive honest guidance tailored to your unique situation.
Schedule Consultation Call (310) 858-8811