Breast implants typically last about 10 – 15 years before needing to be replaced. However, sometimes women choose to have their implants taken out sooner. This is called explant surgery, meaning the implants are removed. 

Women want their implants removed for a variety of reasons; it’s important to remember that you had implants put in to enhance your appearance and boost your self-confidence, so don’t hesitate to have explant surgery for the same reasons. The way you feel about yourself and your body matters. 

In other cases, women may want to have implants removed due to a medical concern. While it is not common, implants can become infected, rupture, or change positions. It’s also possible to have capsular contracture, which causes the skin around the implant to tighten and can cause the breast to rise on the chest, creating discomfort. Ruptured or infected implants, capsular contracture, and simply patient choice are all valid reasons for a woman to need explant surgery. 

Dr. Moore will shape the breast using existing skin and tissue and replace/position the areola. Of course, the result is smaller breasts with the size depending upon the available skin, tissue, & muscle as well as body type of each individual. It is important to note the breast will not be the same shape and size prior to implant placement. 

Plastic surgeon Bridgett Moore, MD will discuss your concerns with you and explain the details of breast explant surgery. There are a lot of options to consider, and Dr. Moore will discuss the choices and what to expect post-surgery. Surgery takes place in our onsite outpatient surgery center at Azalea Center in Valdosta, Georgia, but patients may also use our satellite office in Tifton for post-op visits. Our practice serves patients in Tifton, Valdosta, Douglas, Moultrie, Albany, Thomasville, Adel as well as across south Georgia and north Florida.