Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., with over 310,000 surgeries performed yearly. However, another statistic is on the rise, which is the number of women seeking to remove their breast explants through breast explant surgery.
Reasons compelling women to seek breast explant surgery vary between individuals. The most common reasons double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Tim Sayed encounters are:
- Scar tissue (capsular contracture) that has changed the breasts’ appearance
- Changes in breast shape due to age, pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- Complications with the implants, such as rupturing
- Breast implant illness
Some women’s self-image and lifestyle may have shifted to a point that it is more practical for them to have non-augmented breasts. Others might be dissatisfied with the changes that have happened to their breasts over time. One factor that is often a concern is the possibility of complications from an implant that has broken or ruptured and leaked toxic material into the body. In extreme cases, this tissue damage can lead to permanent deformities of surrounding tissues.
At Tim Sayed Plastic Surgery in La Jolla and Newport Beach, CA, we want to enlighten our patients as much as possible. Understanding why women might seek breast explant surgery can help you better understand your desires and needs and the comfort of knowing you’re not alone.
No Longer Content With Your Breasts’ Appearance
After several years with implants, the natural aging process will inevitably affect your breasts. As a result, your skin will stretch, breasts will shift lower on your chest, and your nipples and areolas will begin to point downward. Removing the implants will significantly reverse these concerns, and you may also wish to consider adding a breast lift as part of the solution.
Lifestyle Changes
The most frequently cited reason for breast explant surgery is a lifestyle change. Younger women often concentrate on their appearance above all else, but your priorities might change as you get older.
Breast implants, particularly larger ones, can hinder active lifestyles by being uncomfortable or getting in the way.
Many women who take up pursuits such as running, swimming, or CrossFit in their mid-20s or 30s might find their implants prevent them from thoroughly enjoying their activities and encourage them to seek breast explant surgery.
Complications With the Implants
A less typical reason for breast explant surgery is complications with implants. As implants get older and remain in your body longer, a painful condition called capsular contraction may occur. One or both implants could also become damaged, necessitating their removal.
Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness is the most prevalent reason Dr. Tim Sayed removes breast implants. Still, it’s critical to note that this condition remains infrequent, with statistics indicating that between one in 2,000 and one in 86,000 breast implant patients will experience the condition.
While health professionals have yet to fully understand its causes, breast implant illness is a set of nonspecific physical symptoms some patients with breast implants experience.
Some reported BII symptoms include:
- Constant fatigue and drowsiness
- Chronic joint inflammation and pain
- Unexplained respiratory complications
- Skin blotching and hair loss
- Mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety
As medical experts strive to better understand and quantify BII, doctors encourage any patient with breast implants experiencing these unexplained symptoms to consult a professional. Often, having the breast implants removed provides noticeable relief of many symptoms, and Dr. Sayed has personally noticed improvements in some of his breast removal patients.
Breast Explant Surgery in Newport Beach, CA
If your beauty standards have changed or your enhanced breasts have become a hindrance, breast explant surgery can significantly improve your quality of life. Reach out to Dr. Tim Sayed in Newport Beach or La Jolla, CA, by calling (858) 247-2933 or contacting us via this online form to arrange a quick virtual consultation to discover how we can help you look and feel your best.
