Breast Implant Removal Details: Procedural Aspects, Expenses, and Additional Information
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that many women choose for various reasons, ranging from physical complications to changes in aesthetic preferences. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the process, potential benefits, and risks involved.
The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting by a board-certified surgeon. During recovery, it's crucial to follow all instructions from the medical team, including care for the incision, follow-up care, medications, and signs to watch for. In some cases, a compression garment may be recommended to help reduce swelling. Supportive bras or other garments may also be provided for added comfort during recovery.
After the procedure, the breast shape will change and a person may notice that their breasts are flatter and less firm, and may have more irregularities or indentations. It's important to note that implants last for about 10-15 years, and both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak over time, with the likelihood of a leak increasing over time.
Common reasons for breast implant removal include physical complications such as capsular contracture (where scar tissue tightens around the implant), implant rupture or leakage, discomfort, changing aesthetic preferences, and concerns about breast implant-associated illnesses like Breast Implant Illness (BII) or Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Lifestyle changes, health changes, or a desire for a more natural appearance can also influence the decision to have implants removed.
The potential benefits of breast implant removal are easier and more accurate mammograms due to no obstruction from implants, relief from breast pain or discomfort, and improved body image or self-confidence for some women. Many women find the procedure a way to "redo" their breasts to better suit their desires or health needs.
However, breast implant removal is still a surgical procedure that carries risks and potential complications, such as infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast shape or sagging (which may require a breast lift), and anesthesia-related risks. The extent of risks can vary depending on individual circumstances, including skin elasticity and the duration implants were in place. Consulting a qualified plastic surgeon is important to evaluate the best treatment plan and minimize risks while achieving the desired outcome.
Before the procedure, it's essential to stop smoking, take only certain medications, avoid anti-inflammatory medication, herbal supplements, or aspirin, undergo a medical evaluation, and organize transportation to and from the hospital.
Insurance companies may cover the costs of implant removal, depending on the circumstances of the original implants and the reason for removal. However, if the original reason for the implants was cosmetic, insurance companies may not cover the cost. It's advisable to check with your insurance company to see whether it will cover the removal of a breast implant.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends that a person get an MRI scan 5-6 years after the implant surgery and once every 2-3 years following that. The cost of implant removal surgery can vary, with the average cost in 2020 being about $3,049, not including other expenses such as operating room facilities, anesthesia, and medical screenings.
In conclusion, breast implant removal offers potential benefits but has associated risks. It's crucial to weigh these factors carefully and consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to understand the best treatment plan for your unique situation.
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[2] Breast Implant Illness: What You Need to Know. (2021, February 1). Retrieved August 30, 2021, from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/plastic-surgery-statistics/breast-implant-illness-what-you-need-to-know
[3] Breast Implant Removal: What to Expect. (2021, July 19). Retrieved August 30, 2021, from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal
[4] Breast Implant Removal: Reasons and Risks. (2021, July 19). Retrieved August 30, 2021, from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/reasons-and-risks
[5] Breast Implant Removal: Recovery and Results. (2021, July 19). Retrieved August 30, 2021, from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/recovery-and-results
- The surgery for breast implant removal, known as breastcosmeticsurgery, is conducted by a board-certified surgeon in a hospital setting.
- One common medical-condition that may prompt breast implant removal is Breast Implant Illness (BII), a condition that can affect women's health and wellness.
- During recovery from breast implant removal, it's essential to seek guidance from the medical team regarding care for the incision, medications, and signs to watch for, such as infection or bleeding.
- Physical complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture, or leakage, and concerns about breast implant-associated illnesses like BII and Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) are reasons why some women choose to have implants removed.
- Breast implant surgery involves risks and potential complications, including infection, scarring, changes in breast shape or sagging, and anesthesia-related risks, making it crucial to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon.
