Breast Implants
Breast augmentation, also known as breast implants, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed in Turkey each year. Despite the extremely high satisfaction rate of this procedure, breast implants are a medical device that will require replacement or removal at some point in the future. Here are the four most common reasons a patient may want to have their breast implants removed, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons.
Reasons some patients decide to remove their breast implants
Replace with new ones
Because breast implants are not permanent, women will eventually need to have them replaced if they rupture or deflate. Most breast implants last about 15-20 years before they need to be replaced. Many women elect to have breast revision surgery to replace old implants with new ones. which is also referred to as an implant exchange When a patient wants to change their implants, it is usually because they want a different size, shape, or type.
Addressing a complication that has occurred
Complications with a patient’s breast implants can include capsular contracture, rupture, or leakage. If this occurs, the implants may have to be removed or replaced.
In addition to removing the breast implants, it may be necessary in some cases to remove the capsule that surrounds them (called a capsulectomy). If a capsulectomy is required, an en-bloc procedure may be preferred, which involves removing the entire surrounding capsule while the breast implant remains inside.
If you no longer want breast implants
Some patients decide they no longer want their breast implants and may choose to have them removed without having them replaced.
Concerns about developing an implant-related health condition
BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is a rare type of lymphoma. Breast cancer is not the cause. It can instead form in the capsule around textured implants.
The implant and its surrounding capsule must be removed because BIA-ALCL has a high cure rate.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) does not recommend removing the implants and expanders if no symptoms are present because the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is so low. Instead, the TGA advises women who have breast implants to be aware of any changes, such as swelling or a lump in their breast or armpit, as these can indicate BIA-ALCL or other problems.
The decision to have your breast implants removed is a very personal one. It’s a decision best discussed with a Plastic Surgeon who can guide you on your journey.
