Ready to Say Goodbye to Your Breast Implants? What to Know About Implant Removal

Breast implants aren’t meant to last forever. Many women who had augmentation years ago are now asking whether it’s time for a change. Some are dealing with complications like rupture or hardening. Others simply feel that implants no longer fit their bodies or lifestyles. Whatever the reason, deciding to remove breast implants is a personal choice, and it’s one more women are making every year.

At AMG Plastic Surgery in Herndon, Dr. Amir Mahan Ghaznavi, MD, MBA, FACS, helps women throughout Northern Virginia explore their options for breast implant removal. Dr. Ghaznavi is dual board-certified in general surgery and plastic surgery. He completed his plastic surgery training at Henry Ford Hospital and an advanced microsurgery fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, and he is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Here’s what you should know if you’re considering breast implant removal.

Why Women Choose to Remove Their Implants

There’s no single reason women decide to remove their breast implants. Some of the most common include:

• Implant Rupture: Implants can rupture or leak over time, which may cause changes in breast shape or position.
• Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue around the implant can tighten, causing firmness, distortion, or discomfort.
• Implant Age: Implants can break down with age and may need to be removed or replaced.
• Pain or Discomfort: Some women experience persistent pain or other complications.
• Infection: Although uncommon, infection may require implant removal.
• Lifestyle Changes: Your preferences, activity level, or body may have changed since your original surgery.
• Health Concerns: Some women report symptoms they believe are related to their implants. Research in this area is ongoing, and a thorough evaluation with your doctors can help guide your decisions.

Your Options for Implant Removal

Breast implant removal isn’t one-size-fits-all. During your consultation, Dr. Ghaznavi will talk with you about the approach that best fits your needs and goals.

Implant Removal

The implant is removed, often through the same incision used during your original augmentation to minimize additional scarring.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

In some cases, Dr. Ghaznavi may remove the implant and the surrounding scar tissue capsule together as a single unit. This approach may be recommended in certain situations, such as capsular contracture or a ruptured implant.

Implant Exchange

If you want to keep the look of breast implants but need to replace older or damaged implants, an implant exchange may be an option.

Removal With a Breast Lift

Once implants are removed, the breasts may look smaller and may sag. A breast lift can reshape the remaining tissue and raise the breasts to a more youthful position.

Fat Transfer

Some women choose to restore modest volume using their own fat, taken from another area of the body through liposuction.

What to Expect After Removal

Many women wonder how their breasts will look once implants are gone. The answer depends on several factors, including:

• The Size of Your Implants: Larger implants may leave more stretched skin.
• How Long You’ve Had Them: Tissues can change over time.
• Your Skin Elasticity: Firm, elastic skin may adapt more easily.
• Your Natural Breast Tissue: The amount of tissue you have underneath affects your results.
• Pregnancy, Weight Changes, and Aging: These factors can all affect breast shape.

Dr. Ghaznavi will help you set realistic expectations and discuss whether additional procedures may help you reach your goals.

Preparing for Your Procedure

A little preparation can help your surgery and recovery go smoothly. Before your procedure, you may be asked to:

• Stop Smoking: Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Review Your Medications: Some medications and supplements may need to be paused before surgery.
• Arrange for Help at Home: Plan for someone to drive you home and help with daily tasks for the first few days.
• Bring Your Implant Information: If available, details about your original implants can be helpful.

Recovery From Breast Implant Removal

Recovery depends on the procedures performed. In general:

1. The First Few Days: Expect soreness and swelling, which can usually be managed with medication.
2. The First Two Weeks: Rest and avoid strenuous activity. Many women return to their normal routines within about two weeks.
3. Several Weeks: Swelling continues to go down, and you can gradually resume exercise with your surgeon’s approval.
4. Several Months: Your breasts continue to settle into their final shape.

Wearing a supportive garment and following all post-operative instructions can help support smooth healing.

Is Breast Implant Removal Right for You?

Implant removal may be a good option if you:

• Are Experiencing Complications: Such as rupture, capsular contracture, or pain.
• Are No Longer Happy With Your Implants: Your aesthetic goals have changed.
• Are Ready for a More Natural Look: You want a smaller, more natural silhouette.
• Are in Good Overall Health: Healthy patients typically have smoother recoveries.

Not everyone is a candidate for every procedure. A thorough consultation is the best way to explore your options. This blog is for educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for medical advice.

Why Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

Breast implant removal, especially en bloc capsulectomy or removal combined with a lift, requires surgical skill and careful planning. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast surgery can help you achieve safe, natural-looking results.

Breast Implant Removal FAQs

• Will my breasts sag after implant removal? Some sagging is common, especially with larger or older implants. A breast lift can help.
• Can I replace my implants with new ones? Yes. Implant exchange is an option for women who want to keep implants.
• Will I have new scars? Dr. Ghaznavi typically uses your original incision when possible. Additional procedures, like a lift, may require additional incisions.
• Is implant removal covered by insurance? Coverage depends on the reason for removal and your insurance plan. Our team can help you understand your options.

Explore Your Options at AMG Plastic Surgery

Your body, your goals, and your choices can change over time. If you’re ready to remove or replace your breast implants, Dr. Ghaznavi is here to help you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

Schedule your consultation with AMG Plastic Surgery today. Visit us at 13454 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 130, Herndon, VA 20171.

Medically reviewed by Amir Mahan Ghaznavi, MD, MBA, FACS on October 9, 2026