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What is Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Breast implant removal surgery, also known as explantation, is a procedure designed to remove breast implants from patients who have previously undergone breast augmentation.
This surgery is sought for various reasons, including implant complications, personal preference, lifestyle changes, or health concerns. Dr. Sawhney offers a comprehensive approach to breast implant removal, ensuring that each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals are met.
In his practice, Dr. Sawhney utilises the en bloc technique, a method where the implant and surrounding capsule (scar tissue that forms around the implant) are removed together as one unit. This technique is particularly important for patients with concerns about silicone leakage or to ensure that all the capsule tissue is removed. In cases where an en bloc removal is not necessary or possible, a total capsulectomy, where the entire capsule is removed separately from the implant, may be performed.
Following implant removal, patients have various options for restoring breast shape and volume. These include replacing the implants with new ones, opting for breast revision procedures, or using autologous fat transfer, a technique Dr. Sawhney was one of the first to employ. Fat transfer involves using the patient’s own fat, harvested from other body areas, to enhance breast shape and volume naturally.
Dr. Sawhney’s Approach to Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Dr. Sawhney’s approach to breast implant removal surgery is centred around patient safety, comfort, and achieving an optimal outcome. He understands the complexities involved in explantation and employs meticulous techniques to address each patient’s individual concerns.
During the en bloc removal process, Dr. Sawhney carefully excises the implant and capsule as a single unit, minimising the risk of silicone leakage and ensuring a thorough removal of potential irritants. In cases where a total capsulectomy is more appropriate, he ensures complete removal of the capsule tissue.
Dr. Sawhney discusses with each patient their options post-explantation. These include replacing the implants with new ones, which can address issues like size, shape, or type preferences, or opting for a breast lift or other revision surgeries to enhance the breast’s natural shape post-implant removal. For those seeking a more natural alternative, Dr. Sawhney offers fat transfer, using the patient’s own fat to restore volume and shape to the breasts.
En Bloc Method
The en bloc method involves removing the breast implant and the surrounding scar tissue capsule as a single unit. This technique is often chosen to ensure that no potentially harmful substances contained within the capsule are left behind. It’s particularly beneficial in cases where the implant has ruptured or when a condition known as Breast Implant Illness is suspected. By removing the implant and capsule en bloc, Dr. Sawhney aims to reduce the risk of contamination and infection, providing a cleaner surgical area and potentially reducing postoperative complication
Capsulectomy
In a capsulectomy, Dr. Sawhney removes the scar tissue capsule that forms around the breast implant. This procedure can be performed when the capsule has become thickened or hardened, a condition known as capsular contracture, which can cause discomfort or distort the shape of the breast. By removing this hardened tissue, Dr. Sawhney aims to relieve these symptoms while maintaining the integrity of the breast tissue. This procedure is considered when there is a need to address issues directly related to the capsule itself.
Implant Removal Without Capsulectomy
In some cases, Dr. Sawhney may remove the breast implants without performing a capsulectomy. This option might be chosen when the capsule is thin and not causing any problems, or when the patient’s health conditions require a less invasive approach. Removing the implants without capsulectomy can be a straightforward procedure, potentially resulting in a quicker recovery period compared to methods that involve additional tissue removal.
Options for Patients Post-Implant Removal
Not Replacing the Implants
Some patients choose not to replace their implants after removal. In these cases, Dr. Sawhney focuses on performing a breast implant removal procedure which has the goal of reaching the goals of the patient with removing their implants. This option is often suitable for those who wish to return to their natural breast size or for those whose lifestyle or personal preferences have changed, though patients need to be aware of the potential aesthetic outcomes of removing breast implants without replacing the volume of the breast in some manner
Replacing the Implants
For patients desiring to maintain or alter their breast size post-implant removal, new breast implants can be an option. Dr. Sawhney carefully selects the appropriate type and size of the implant to match the patient’s desired outcome. This choice is often made by patients who still wish to have augmented breasts but with different implants, perhaps of a different size, shape, or material.
Breast Lift to replace the Implants
A breast lift, or mastopexy, can be an option for patients who wish to address sagging or changes in breast shape following implant removal. This procedure involves reshaping and lifting the natural breast tissue, creating a more customised and uplifted breast profile. It’s a preferred option for those looking to change their breast contour without the use of implants.
Fat Transfer to replace the implants
Fat transfer, involving the use of the patient’s own body fat to add volume to the breasts, can be an alternative to implants. This method provides a more natural augmentation and is chosen by patients who prefer a modest increase in breast size using their own tissue.
Combination of Methods for Replacing the Implants
Some patients might benefit from a combination of the above methods, such as a breast lift along with fat transfer, to achieve their desired breast appearance. Dr. Sawhney customizes these combined approaches based on the patient’s anatomical considerations and aesthetic goals.
Dr. Sawhney’s Experience
Dr. Sawhney has a specific focus on breast implant removal surgery, having gained extensive experience in various techniques. He has presented at international plastic surgery conferences, sharing his insights with fellow surgeons. His commitment to advancing surgical techniques is reflected in his dedication to educating others in the field, ensuring that patients receive care based on the latest knowledge and methods in plastic surgery.
