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Sometimes, over time, a patient’s aesthetic goals can change. We are dedicated to working with patients to achieve their goals and the desired look at every step of their journey. Some patients opt to have implants removed. This can be due to a physical change in their body, change in aesthetic goals or complications with previously placed implants including breast implant illness. Some patients opt to have implants routinely removed and replaced after a set number of years. Whatever the reasons may be, implant removal is a safe and viable option for patients to consider if they have decided to make a change. In consultation with Dr. Aya-ay, patients can determine whether implant removal is the procedure best suited to their needs.
What is Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to remove previously placed breast implants. Dr. Aya-ay prefers to also perform a capsulectomy to remove the patient’s breast scar capsule to allow the tissue to heal back into a more natural position. In cases of breast implant illness, an en bloc capsulectomy will be recommended to remove the implant and scar capsule together. In some cases, implants are removed due to capsular contracture, or the hardening of scar tissue around implants. This can cause pain and discomfort or an undesirable appearance, and capsulectomy with implant removal can address these complications. It is also recommended to remove ruptured implants. When implants are removed, shaping of the breast may be performed with a breast lift/mastopexy and fat grafting can be performed to help with volume replacement as well.
Melanie L. Aya-ay, M.D.
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Melanie Aya-ay is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa Bay with over 15 years of plastic surgery experience specializing in cosmetic surgery, reconstructive breast surgery and minimally invasive techniques for facial and body rejuvenation. She is known for her skill and excellence in revision surgery, specifically for difficult breast surgery revisions. Dr. Aya-ay is an Allergan Medical Institute (AMI) National Trainer for Facial Aesthetics and AMI National Speaker for Plastic and Regenerative Medicine. She is honored to be the first female surgeon to hold this dual faculty position with Allergan.
Dr. Aya-ay is the CEO and owner of Melanie L. Aya-ay, MD Plastic Surgery as well as Vivia MedSpa, an elite luxury medical spa in North Tampa. Her practice and her team have been built on the values of honesty, integrity, education, safety, and providing comprehensive aesthetic care with natural results. Your consultation with Dr. Aya-ay will be an educational experience so that you can be assured that you are making the choices that are best for you. Our staff will provide all the assistance needed to help you navigate through the process for a successful Plastic Surgery experience.
Implant Removal Procedure
Depending on the procedure, the patient will typically receive general anesthesia. An incision will be made along the inframammary fold. Implants and scar tissue capsule will then be removed. A drain will typically be placed. Depending on the patient’s desires, a breast lift, reduction and/or fat grafting may be performed. If the patient prefers then new implants may be inserted in place of the removed implants. Sutures will be used to close the incision, concluding the procedure.
Beautiful, Natural, Results.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Implant Removal Recovery and Aftercare
Because of the general anesthesia, patients should arrange for transportation ahead of time. Patients can typically return home on the day of the procedure. During the recovery period, you will have activity limitations in order to decrease the risk of postoperative complications. You will have a dressing in place and, in most cases, a surgical bra to reduce and prevent swelling. Drains may also be placed to clear out excess fluid during the recovery process. Postoperative medications may include an antibiotic, pain medication, and often a muscle relaxant and anti-nausea medication to be used as needed. Dr. Aya-ay and her staff will review the postoperative instructions with you at your consultation, and again at your preoperative visit to ensure that you are comfortable with your postoperative care.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about breast implant removal or other potential options, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Aya-ay. A consultation is a chance to collaborate to decide what procedure or treatment would be best suited for you and your needs. To schedule your consultation appointment, contact our Tampa office today.
