Breast Implant Removal — Dr. Alissa M. Shulman in Sarasota, FL, Explains What You Need to Know

Breast Implant Removal Sarasota FL

Some people are surprised to learn that breast implant removal is performed almost as often as breast augmentation surgery. At Sovereign Plastic Surgery in Sarasota, FL, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alissa M. Shulman is experienced in performing all types of breast plastic surgery, including breast enlargement, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, breast lifts, and implant removal. Dr. Shulman works closely with each patient to learn about her aesthetic goals and then recommends an appropriate treatment plan to help her achieve them.

You might wonder why breast implant removal is sometimes requested or necessary. In Sarasota, Florida, Dr. Shulman performs implant removal surgery for some women who cite personal reasons; for instance, they may feel that the very large breast implants they wanted several years ago no longer fit with their current lifestyles.

Additionally, it’s important to understand that implants are not designed or intended to last a lifetime, and that routine replacement might become necessary. Furthermore, some women choose to have their breast implants removed due to medical concerns. You may have heard the term “capsular contracture,” which is a complication of breast augmentation surgery and the most common reason for breast implant removal. Here’s a brief explanation of the condition as provided by Dr. Shulman:

  • After any type of breast implant — saline, silicone, or cohesive gel (“gummy bear”) — is placed under the breast tissue or under the “pec” muscle, the body naturally responds by forming a protective shell, or tissue capsule, around it.
  • The capsule consists of living tissue that is similar to scar tissue.
  • For reasons that are not completely understood, the tissue capsule may slowly shrink and contract around the implant.
  • As the tissue capsule progressively tightens, the breast may begin to look and feel firmer.
  • As the breast continues to harden, the implant may be squeezed out of its normal position, and the breast can begin to take on an abnormally rounded shape.

Rupture and leakage are other possible complications of breast implant surgery that can lead to the need for removal. These complications can develop gradually over time as the devices begin to wear out, or suddenly as a result of a direct impact to the chest. Capsular contracture alone does not usually cause implants to rupture and leak, because the resulting pressure is generally exerted evenly around the implant. However, the tightening effect can potentially cause a crease to develop in an implant, making it more prone to rupture.

Regardless of the reason you are interested in breast implant removal, you can learn more by contacting Sovereign Plastic Surgery and scheduling a personal appointment with Dr. Shulman at her office in Sarasota, FL.