Breast Implant Removal

This option removes the implant and leaves most of the capsule in place. It may be considered when the capsule is thin, not problematic and removal would add unnecessary risk. Your surgeon will explain how this approach may affect breast shape and recovery.

Partial capsulectomy removes part of the capsule when it is thickened, calcified or contributing to shape issues. It can also be used to address selected capsule problems while limiting dissection where risk is higher.

Total capsulectomy aims to remove most or all of the capsule. It may be considered for significant capsular contracture, certain rupture scenarios or when capsule tissue needs to be removed for clinical reasons. Total capsulectomy can carry additional risks, especially when implants are placed under the chest muscle.

Capsulotomy involves releasing or scoring the capsule rather than removing it. In the context of implant removal, it may be used to improve drainage, reduce tightness or help the pocket settle, depending on surgeon preference and findings.

Your surgeon reviews your implant history, symptoms and prior surgical records when available. Imaging may be recommended in some situations, especially if rupture, fluid collections or other implant related concerns are suspected.

For international patients, planning includes how long you should stay for follow ups, who to contact after hours and how post-op checks will continue after you return home.

Breast Implant Removal is usually performed under general anesthesia. Through a planned incision, the implant is removed and the capsule is assessed. If capsulotomy or capsulectomy is needed, it is performed carefully based on anatomy and safety considerations.

Drains may be used in selected cases, especially when there is more extensive capsule work. Dressings are applied and you receive written aftercare instructions before discharge.

Early follow ups focus on incision healing, fluid buildup, comfort and breast shape changes. If drains are used, removal timing varies and is decided by your surgical team.

• Share implant card details if available, including brand, type and placement date
• Bring prior operative notes and any imaging results when possible
• Describe symptoms clearly, including firmness, pain, swelling or changes in shape

• Share your full medical history, allergies and current medicines and supplements
• Follow guidance on nicotine, alcohol and medicines that can increase bleeding risk
• Complete required labs and any requested imaging within the recommended timeframe

• Plan enough time in destination for early wound checks and drain care if used
• Arrange accommodation that supports rest and limited lifting
• Plan for assistance with luggage, transport and daily tasks after surgery

Arrival is often scheduled 1 to 2 days before surgery for examination, consent and any final tests. Your surgeon confirms whether implant removal only, partial capsulectomy or total capsulectomy is planned.

Surgery is followed by monitored recovery. Some patients go home the same day while others stay overnight depending on the extent of revision and clinical assessment.

Post-op visits typically review incisions, swelling and signs of fluid buildup. If drains are used, your team checks output and decides on safe removal timing.

Fitness to fly depends on wound status, mobility, swelling and your risk factors. Your surgeon provides clearance and guidance for the journey home, including movement during travel and when to seek medical review.

Soreness, swelling and limited arm movement are common. Support garments may be recommended. If drains are present, care focuses on keeping sites clean and monitoring output.

Many patients gradually increase light activity. Bruising often fades while swelling can persist. Incisions continue to strengthen, and your surgeon adjusts activity limits based on healing.

Breast shape continues to settle and scars mature over months. Some patients notice looseness or deflation, especially after long-term implants or larger implant sizes, and may discuss lift or fat grafting options later if desired.

• Follow guidance on showering, dressings and support garments
• Avoid friction and pressure on healing incisions
• Report increasing redness, drainage, fever or sudden swelling

• Increase activity gradually as cleared by your surgeon
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous upper body activity until advised
• Follow nicotine restrictions to support wound healing

International patients often continue follow up with scheduled remote check ins. If you develop new swelling, a lump or persistent pain after returning home, prompt in-person assessment by a local clinician may be needed alongside your surgeon’s guidance.

• Swelling and bruising
• Pain, tightness or temporary numbness
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Seroma or fluid collection
• Delayed wound healing
• Visible scarring
• Changes in breast shape, looseness or asymmetry

• Higher bleeding risk with extensive capsulectomy
• Injury to surrounding tissues
• Longer recovery when dissection is more extensive

When implants are placed under the muscle, capsule removal can be more technically demanding. Your surgeon should explain why partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy or capsulotomy is recommended in your situation.

En bloc capsulectomy is a specific technique where the implant and capsule are removed together as one unit, typically considered when there is a strong clinical reason such as suspected malignancy. In many cases, en bloc capsulectomy is not required and may increase surgical risk. Decisions should be individualized after specialist review.

Seek urgent clinical assessment for rapidly increasing swelling, severe one-sided pain, shortness of breath, fever or heavy bleeding. New late swelling around an implant, a lump or persistent pain should be assessed by a specialist to rule out uncommon implant related conditions.

Turkey has a large network of private hospitals and surgical centers where breast revision procedures, including breast implant removal and capsulectomy, are commonly performed. Many teams support international patients with structured pre-op assessment, anesthesia services and scheduled post-op checks.

Provider selection should include verified surgeon credentials, clear consent around capsule options and a defined plan for complications and follow up after you return home.

Iran has established expertise in plastic and reconstructive surgery and performs explant surgery across specialist clinics and hospitals. For international patients, safe planning focuses on verified specialist qualifications, facility standards, time in destination for early monitoring and a clear pathway for questions after returning home.