Introducing Shaw Formula Skincare
Products formulated to support healthy, beautiful skin.
Learn More
316.669.4067
Home/Breast Surgery/Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal or “explantation” is a procedure designed to remove saline and silicone implants, often with the surrounding scar capsule. Although breast augmentation can be a life-changing procedure to achieve fuller, more shapely breast contours, there are many different reasons why a patient may want to eventually remove their implants. From a complication arising to changing preferences over time, every woman considering breast implant removal has their own personal reasons for doing so. Dr. James Shaw, our highly trained board-certified plastic surgeon in Wichita, is extensively qualified to perform this complex procedure and can develop the best treatment plan to safely remove your breast implants without sacrificing a natural look.   

Explore Topics on this Page

Is Breast Implant Removal Right for Me?

The reasons which may catalyze the decision to pursue breast implant removal are varied, ranging from perceived health concerns to patients feeling like they no longer need their breast implants. Common motivations for explantation surgery include: 

  • You’ve noticed a complication or a change in the look or feel of your breasts. We encourage all breast augmentation patients to remain vigilant to potential changes in their breasts over time. If you notice symptoms such as pain, asymmetry, tightness, or hardened breast tissue, these signs may be an indication of a complication with your implants.
  • Your preferences and tastes have changed over time. In some cases, you may find you don’t have a desire for enlarged breasts anymore or you wish to reclaim your natural breast contours. 
  • You would like your breasts to look more proportional after weight gain. Weight gain over the years can cause patients with breast implants to look disproportionately top-heavy. Explantation surgery may be a good solution to achieve more balanced, proportional breasts in relation to the rest of your body. 
  • You have financial or health-related concerns. Some patients have health concerns regarding their breast implants and would rather remove them for their own peace of mind. The desire to avoid the potential costs of future revision surgery may also be a reason for breast implant removal. 

Discussing your concerns and hopes for the outcome with a board-certified plastic surgeon is generally the best way to find out whether breast implant removal, or another procedure such as breast revision, can be an ideal way to achieve your goals. 

How is the Breast Implant Removal Procedure Performed?

There are many approaches to breast implant removal that can be utilized, and no two procedures are exactly the same. Factors that will affect the details of your surgery include the timing of your procedure and the amount of scar tissue present. Depending on your needs, Dr. Shaw may perform a capsulectomy — this technique involves removing the implant and breast capsule. In cases wherein the implant capsule and surrounding scar tissue require removal, an “en bloc capsulectomy” can be effective. For certain patients, an en bloc capsulectomy may be an optimal way to restore your natural contours, as the implant and entire scar capsule are removed as a whole. This reduces the risk of implant leakage while removing as much scar tissue as possible. Not every patient will require removal of the surrounding scar capsule, and Dr. Shaw will explain the best approach for your needs.

Dr. Shaw will walk you through the different stages of your procedure after developing your treatment plan. Breast implant removal usually takes place on an outpatient basis and utilizes general anesthesia.

What Can I Expect From Recovery After Breast Implant Removal?

The recovery period after breast implant removal generally mirrors the healing period expected after every breast procedure. Swelling, aching, tenderness, bruising, and discomfort are all normal reactions, and should dissipate gradually as you continue to heal. Most patients require one to two weeks of downtime before resuming their normal routine, although many women are able to perform light daily activities within a couple of days. It’s important to wear any post-operative garments for the amount of time prescribed by Dr. Shaw to minimize swelling and protect your incisions. Exercise should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?

In Wichita, Kansas, the cost of breast implant removal starts at $5000, but the final cost depends on each person’s unique treatment plan. This figure includes the typical costs associated with every cosmetic surgery, including fees for anesthesia, the hospital facility, the surgeon, etc. Each explantation procedure is also personalized based on your own health, concerns, and needs, so the total price usually varies from patient to patient. Keep in mind, your cost estimate will be influenced by: 

  • The explantation technique utilized
  • The addition of any follow-up procedures (such as breast lift surgery)
  • The complexity of your procedure

If desired, our practice also accepts plastic surgery financing from qualified patients who want to pay for their procedure over time in lower, more manageable installments. Don’t hesitate to call our office if you have any other questions about the cost of breast implant removal or our other cosmetic services.

At Shaw Plastic Surgery, Dr. James Shaw and our knowledgeable team can listen to your concerns and develop an optimal treatment plan to remove your breast implants using safe, effective techniques. Contact our Wichita practice to schedule a consultation, or to speak with a friendly member of our office.