Cosmetic Ear Surgery in Tennessee
Breast Implant Removal
Your Journey to Explantation: Clarity, Comfort, and Care
Deciding to remove your breast implants is a deeply personal choice. Whether you are looking to embrace a more natural silhouette, responding to lifestyle changes, or addressing medical needs, we are here to guide you. Our goal is to make this process as smooth and transparent as possible, helping you feel confident in your decision.
Breast implants aren't designed to last forever. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests that implants typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, every woman is different.
You might consider removal if:● Your implants have reached that 10-15 year mark.● You simply want to return to your natural breast shape.● You are experiencing discomfort or changes in the implant structure.
Friendly Tip: If you aren't sure, a consultation is the best way to listen to what your body is telling you.
What Happens During Surgery?
We want you to feel safe and informed. The procedure (often called "explantation") is performed under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep and comfortable throughout.
How we approach it:
1.- Gentle Approach: We typically use the original scar line for the incision to minimize any new marks on your skin.
2.- Complete Care: The surgeon carefully removes the implant and, if necessary, the surrounding capsule (scar tissue).
3.- Refining Your Look: Once the implants are out, we assess your natural tissue. Many patients choose to combine removal with a Breast Lift or Fat Transfer to achieve a shape they love.
4.- Healing Start: We close the area securely with sutures and apply supportive dressings to protect you as you wake up.
Your Healing Timeline
Recovery isn't a race; it's a time to let your body rest and repair. Here is what your calendar might look like:
The First Few Days (Rest Mode)● How you'll feel: It is normal to feel some soreness, swelling, or bruising.● What to do: Take your prescribed meds, sleep with plenty of pillows (elevated), and let others help you. Rest is your #1 job right now.
Days 1 to 10 (Gentle Movement)● The "Shoulder Rule": To protect your incisions, avoid raising your arms above your shoulders for the first 10 days.● Hygiene: Keep your incisions clean and dry. A gentle wash with mild soap helps prevent infection—just remember to pat dry, never rub!
Weeks 2 to 6 (Getting Back to Normal)● Light Activity: You’ll start feeling more like yourself! You can move your arms more freely after two weeks.● Lifting Limits: Please avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs (about the weight of a heavy grocery bag) until you hit the 6-week mark.
6 to 8 Weeks● Green Light: Most patients are cleared to gradually return to the gym and more strenuous activities.
Embracing the New You
Removing implants brings changes, both visible and invisible.
● Physical Changes: Your breasts will have a different shape, size, and texture. Depending on your skin's elasticity, there might be some looseness or sagging, which is completely natural after having implants.● Emotional Wellness: It is okay to have mixed feelings! Adjusting to a new body image takes time. Some days you might feel relieved, and other days you might feel vulnerable. Be patient with yourself—this is a normal part of the journey.