Breast Implant Removal Manchester
Explant Surgery
Breast Implant Explant
Removal of Breast Implants Manchester
Breast implants have been popular for decades, providing women with the option to enhance or restore their breast volume and shape. However, there has been increasing awareness about the potential short- and long-term implications of breast implants, prompting many individuals to consider removing them. Whether due to medical complications, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or a desire for a more natural look, breast implant removal, often referred to as “explant” surgery, can be a significant step toward improved health, comfort, and body confidence.
Breast Implant Removal Surgery
What is Explant Surgery?
Treatment Overview
Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, is a procedure that takes out breast implants from a patient’s body. Many women who have undergone breast augmentation may, at some stage, decide they no longer wish to have implants due to personal reasons, health concerns, or lifestyle changes. In some cases, there may be complications with the implants themselves—such as a rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture—prompting removal or replacement.
This treatment can be performed on its own, known simply as an explant procedure, or it can be combined with additional surgical interventions. For example, some women opt for a breast lift (mastopexy) at the time of removal to improve the shape and position of their natural breasts. Others might choose to replace existing implants with new ones, a process commonly referred to as an implant exchange or use fat transfer for volume restoration.
Breast implant removal can be a big decision and so it is important to be informed about all possible consequences. The best approach varies according to individual needs, and it is essential to seek professional advice from our specialist plastic surgeons at Deansgate Hospital to determine what procedure is indeed the right step for you.
Breast Implant Removal Before and Afters
Breast Restoration
Breast Implant Removal in Manchester at Deansgate Hospital
Manchester is recognised for its world-class medical facilities such as Deansgate Hospital and highly qualified surgeons who specialise in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. If you are based in the North West, Cheshire, or elsewhere in the UK, Manchester offers convenient access to a luxury private hospital equipped with state-of-the-art surgical technology.
Manchester is one of the UK’s leading cities for cosmetic and plastic surgery. Our hospital provides convenient access for patients living in Manchester, Cheshire, the North West, and beyond. Thinking about removing your breast implants in Manchester then book your consultation at Deansgate Hospital.
What are the reasons for breast implant removal?
Indications for explant surgery
There are many reasons why women seek to have breast implant removal or explants. These may be due to complications or health concerns of having breast implants or personal choices in the sizing of the breasts that can happen with time. These are the most common reasons why we perform breast implant removal in Manchester.
Medical Complications
Rupture or Leakage: Implants can rupture or leak over time, especially if they have been in place for many years or have sustained physical damage.
Capsular Contracture: This condition occurs when scar tissue around the implant becomes thick or tight, causing breast hardness, pain, and visual distortion.
Infection or Persistent Pain: Some patients experience chronic discomfort, tenderness, or recurrent infections related to their implants.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
There is a growing awareness of a phenomenon known as breast implant illness. While not officially classified as a distinct medical condition, some women report systemic symptoms—such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or rashes—that they attribute to their implants. Removal of the implants and surrounding scar tissue (explant) is sometimes pursued to seek relief from these symptoms. Studies currently show only some patients find relief after implant removal.
Aesthetic Dissatisfaction
Over time, aesthetic preferences change. Some women decide they no longer want the size or shape provided by implants.
As we age, breast tissue can sag, and changes in weight or pregnancy can impact the appearance of implants, prompting individuals to remove or replace them.
Maintenance and Future Surgeries
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. The longer you have implants, the more likely you are to require revision surgery at some point. Some women prefer to remove them altogether rather than keep replacing them every 10–15 years.
No matter the reason, it is crucial to seek the advice from our plastic surgeons at Deansgate Hospital to discuss your motivations and unique medical circumstances before proceeding with breast implant removal.
To find out more information about Breast implant removal in Manchester you should book a consultation with our plastic surgeons, please contact us via our contact form.
Consideration for breast implant exchange?
Things to consider with implant exchange
The replacement of breast implants can require a number of factors to be considered. These will be discussed with you during your consultation with our surgeons at Deansgate Hospital in Manchester. Some of things to consider include:
Breast Size
You should consider your current breast size and whether you would like to upsize, downsize or remain a similar size. When you downsize there may be loose skin and this may need tightening.
Implant Size
It is helpful to have you current implant information when you come for your consultation. This will provide the surgeon with some valuable information. We can then discuss more accurately the new implant size.
Implant Shape or Features
There are a number of different implant brands available and some brand are no longer available such as Allergan. You can also consider changing the shape of your implants to either round or tear drop.
Capsule Surgery
Some patients may have a capsular contracture which is hardening of the capsule around the implant. This may need removal or release during the procedure.
Skin Quality
The skin around the implants is very important. If the skin is thin then you may have rippling. If the elasticity is poor then there may be sagging. These may need additional procedures such as a breast lift.
Expectations
It is important to be realistic in terms of the expected outcomes. It is unlikely that you will achieve the same result as when you first had surgery.
During your consultation, we will conduct an extensive review of your medical history, examine your areas of concern, and discuss the best options to help you reach your goals.
Breast Implant Care
How to check your implants
Breast implants are a long term commitment and they will require regular checks and maintenance. If you have breast implants then you should consider the following:
Breast Checks: All women should check their breasts for lumps. This is also important if you have breast implants.
Surgeon Checks: It is important to have a consultation with a surgeon every 3-5 years to check your implants. They can perform an examination and also suggest if further investigations are required.
Scans: Women with breast implants should have regular scans ideally MRI scans. The scans are to check for implant rupture which is not often recognised just by examination.
Breast Implant Removal Cost
Prices from
£6500
Implant Exchange Journey
Implant Replacement Step by Step
Start your implant exchange surgery journey by booking your consultation with our team at Deansgate Hospital. Our team will guide you through the process from initial appointment to discharge. We have summarised the step by step journey of the exchange operation below.
Discuss Your Goals You will explain your aesthetic concerns and desired outcomes.
Physical Examination Identify any issues with the existing implants or if an uplift is required. Based on your unique goals, our surgeon will explain what exchange can and cannot achieve. They will also discuss any alternative or complementary procedures that may give better results such as a breast lift if significant breast ptosis or drooping is present.
Review Your Medical History Any current medications, allergies, and past surgical experiences. If you have your implant information from the previous surgery this can be very helpful.
Discuss Treatment Options Our surgeon will recommend some implant sizes and operative plan.
Explain Risks and Benefits You will gain an understanding of the potential risks and expected outcomes.
Preop Checks: Routine checks and medical review beofre surgery.
Smoking Cessation: If you smoke or vape, plan to stop at least six weeks before surgery to minimise complications.
Avoid Certain Medications: We may advise you to avoid specific medications and supplements that could increase bleeding. Make sure you inform us of any medications or supplements that you are currently taking.
Admission: You will be admitted to the ward by our nursing team who will perform some checks.
Anaesthetic Review: Anaesthetist will review you and discuss the anaesthesia.
Photography: You will have your preop photos taken.
Marking: The surgeon will draw their operative plan and mark you in preparation for the surgery. If you need an uplift further markings will be done.
Consent: The surgeon will discuss the procedure and risks again and complete the documentation.
After surgery: You will be closely monitored in a recovery area to ensure you wake up safely from general anaesthesia. You may notice dressings, surgical drains, or support bra garments. Surgical drains may be used help prevent fluid accumulation, and support garments minimise swelling and support the breasts.
Pain: Levels vary, but you will receive medications to manage discomfort. You should expect to stay in the hospital for a short period following surgery depending on your recovery.
Plan for Recovery Organise child care, work leave, and household help for at least two weeks after surgery.
Arrange Transportation Arrange for a reliable friend or family member to accompany you..
Post-Surgery Essentials Prepare items such as loose-fitting clothing, post-surgical bras, and extra pillows to elevate your body while sleeping for the first 3-4 nights.
Activity: Light walking is encouraged early on to reduce the risk of blood clots or thrombosis. Most can resume mild to moderate exercise at six weeks, but full recovery of strength and the capacity to engage in strenuous workouts might take up to three months.
Wound Care: Carefully follow our instructions for cleaning and dressing your incisions, if necessary.
Follow-Up Appointments: We will schedule follow-up visits within the first week or two to check on your healing, remove any dressings, and assess incision sites.
Support Bra: These should be worn for 6 weeks following surgery and your surgeon will provide specific advice.
Exchange of Breast Implants
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my breasts look “deflated” after implant removal?
They may appear smaller and potentially sag or lose some upper breast fullness, especially if you had large implants or thinner breast tissue to start with. A mastopexy (breast lift) can help reshape and elevate the breasts.
Is breast implant removal painful?
There can be discomfort and soreness in the initial days following surgery, but this is usually well-managed with pain relief. Most patients find that the discomfort gradually subsides within one to two weeks. It is often less painful than your original surgery.
Can I combine a breast lift with implant removal?
Yes, it is common to combine a breast lift (mastopexy) with implant removal, especially if the implants were large and there is skin laxity.
When can I exercise after explant surgery?
We recommend light activity soon after the surgery to reduce the risks of thrombosis. Any strenuous exercise should not be done until after 6 weeks.
What are the risks of explant surgery?
Any surgical procedure carries potential risks. While breast implant replacement is generally safe, it is vital to be aware of possible complications, which can include:
Infection: In rare cases, implants may need to be removed or replaced if an infection does not respond to antibiotics.
Bleeding or Haematoma: Bleeding into the surgical site can lead to pain and swelling, sometimes requiring further surgery to address.
Anaesthesia Complications: These are uncommon but can include reactions such as respiratory or cardiovascular issues.
Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: Sensation may be temporarily altered after surgery; in some cases, it may persist.
Breast Ptosis: This is saggy or laxity of the skin following implant removal.
Discuss any concerns with your surgeon and ensure you have a complete understanding of these risks. A skilled and experienced surgical team in Deansgate Hospital, Manchester will mitigate these risks through stringent safety measures, precise surgical techniques, and comprehensive aftercare.
How much is breast implant removal?
Several factors will influence the cost of your breast implant replacement procedure in Manchester:
Surgeon’s Fees: A surgeon with extensive expertise in complex revision cases may charge a higher fee.
Anaesthetist’s Fees: Cost may vary depending on the length of the procedure.
Hospital Fees: This includes operating theatre expenses, nursing care, and postop checks.
Supplementary Procedures: If you require a breast lift or extensive capsulectomy, costs may rise due to increased surgical time.
Do you have finance options?
Yes we do have some finance options to spread the cost of the procedure. To find out more please contact the hospital.
Does explant surgery improve breast implant illness?
In recent years, there has been significant attention on breast implant illness (BII). Although research is ongoing and there is still debate in the medical community, many patients report systemic symptoms they believe are linked to their breast implants, including chronic fatigue, pain in joints and muscles, brain fog, and unexplained rashes or allergies. Some individuals experiencing these symptoms choose to undergo an en bloc explant, which involves removing the implant and scar capsule in one piece.
The rationale behind en bloc removal is to reduce the chance of any contaminated fluid or damaged implant material leaking into the body. While some patients report improvement in their symptoms after explant surgery, it’s important to note that, from a scientific standpoint, consistent large-scale data is lacking. Nevertheless, patient advocacy groups and numerous anecdotal accounts have brought attention to this issue.
A statement from representatives of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society, notes that an en bloc capsulectomy is only necessary for patients with an established or suspected breast implant-associated cancer after appropriate medical workup.
Explant Surgery options
Explant Surgery in Manchester
Explant is a term used by both patients and professionals to describe the removal of breast implants. In Manchester, explant procedures are carried out by our consultant plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast surgery. During an explant, the surgeon will open the incision site and remove the implant, along with any necessary surrounding tissue.
The specific method of explantation can vary:
Simple Implant Removal
This procedure involves removing only the implant itself. It is typically done when there is minimal scar tissue and no complications like capsular contracture.
Capsulectomy (Partial or Total)
Scar tissue (the capsule) naturally forms around the implant as part of the body’s response to a foreign object. In some cases, particularly if there is capsular contracture, your surgeon may remove part (partial capsulectomy) or all (total capsulectomy) of the capsule.
En Bloc Implant Removal
This is a more involved procedure where the implant and the surrounding capsule are removed in one continuous piece. Although this has been popularised in social media and online, the studies show not significant benefits from this method. The studies also show in some cases this can involve higher risks of complications.
Combining Breast Implant Removal with Other Procedures
Many women in Manchester choose to combine their breast implant removal with other procedures to achieve an improved cosmetic outcome. Some of these include:
Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Removing implants can sometimes leave the breast skin looser, particularly if large implants have been in place for many years. A mastopexy or uplift reshapes and elevates the breast by tightening the surrounding tissue and removing excess skin.
Fat Transfer: Another option for women who wish to have some fullness in their breasts after explant is autologous fat transfer, where fat is taken from one area of the body (usually the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) and transferred into the breasts. This can achieve a modest increase in size and a more natural appearance.
Implant Exchange: If you prefer to continue having implants then an implant exchange can be performed at the same time as removal.
The approach your surgeon takes will be determined by your specific clinical situation, the issues or symptoms you have, and your overall goals for surgery. Always discuss your options thoroughly to decide on the technique that is most appropriate for your condition.
