BREAST SURGERY

EXPLANTATION AND MASTOPEXY

Explantation and mastopexy is a combination procedure that entails the removal of breast implants in women who have previously undergone augmentation, together with a breast lift of the remaining breast tissue. Women may seek this procedure for the removal of ruptured implants or for capsular contracture. Additionally, some women may choose to remove their implants as they wish to return to a smaller breast size.

PROCEDURE

Explantation and mastopexy are performed under general anaesthesia. The implants are removed, usually through the previous incisions through which they were initially inserted. The capsule which forms around the implant is also removed during the surgery if necessary. This procedure is usually combined with a breast lift(mastopexy) to address the resulting drooping of the breast that follows removal of the implant. The remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create an aesthetically pleasing breast. Without a mastopexy, the breast may sag and appear deflated and flat once the implants have been removed.  This usually results in additional scars on the breast to achieve the mastopexy. However, these scars often heal in time to be almost imperceptible. Drains are placed to remove excess blood and fluid from the now empty breast implant pockets.

RECOVERY

Full recovery may take anywhere between four to six weeks. Drains are removed within a week, but this depends on each individual case. Swelling and bruising are expected after the procedure, which resolves within a few weeks. Post-operative pain is managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon. A supportive bra is worn for approximately six weeks, as this helps recovery and also secures the breasts in place as they heal.

Patients must avoid heavy exercise, stretching or lifting weights for a few weeks after surgery. The swelling will take a few months to resolve, and scars will fade and improve during this time.