Maintaining Breast Implants: Removal or Future Procedures

maintaining breast implants removal future

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the general expectations for how long breast implants will last, plus some initial tips for long-term care following breast augmentation. While initial recovery periods are naturally very important after any such procedure, it’s also vital to keep an eye on long-term maintenance of breast implants as the years go by. 

At the offices of Steven Warnock MD, we provide all breast augmentation and other Utah cosmetic surgery patients with full information and resources on how to care for their bodies following any of our procedures. Today’s part two of our series will look at a few of the additional long-term care factors that should be considered with breast implants.

Possible Future Breast Augmentation Procedures

As we discussed in part one of our series, quality breast implants can usually be expected to last for at least a decade with proper care. In fact, many women never experience any issues or problems with their breast implants at all and never need to have any implant-related surgeries after their initial breast augmentation.

Of course, it’s also important to keep in mind that breasts (with or without implants) can change over time due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, aging, and other factors. As a result, some women who have breast implants may eventually decide to have another breast augmentation procedure, either to adjust the size of their implants or to address any changes in the appearance of their breasts.

Can Implants Be Removed?

Generally speaking, yes, breast implants can be removed if a woman decides she no longer wants them. However, it’s important to note that removing implants is usually a more involved surgery than putting them in, and may require additional incisions. In some cases, it may also not be possible to completely remove all traces of an implant.

In addition, while it is possible to put new implants in after removing old ones, it’s worth noting that doing so may increase the risk of complications. As a result, many women who have their implants removed elect to not replace them.

Other Options if You Don’t Like the Results

If you’re not happy with the results of your breast augmentation, or if you experience any serious complications, it’s important to know that there are other options available. For example, if you have implants that are causing pain or other problems, you may be a candidate for a procedure called a capsulotomy, which involves cutting into the capsule around the implant to relieve pressure.

In addition, if you have implants that have shifted out of place, you may need a procedure called a capsulorrhaphy, which involves stitching the capsule back around the implant. These are just a few of the many options that may be available to you if you’re not happy with your breast implants.

For more on long-term care for breast implants, or to learn about this or any of our cosmetic surgery procedures, speak to our staff at the offices of Steven Warnock MD today.