Breast Implant Removal

This approach removes the implant while leaving most of the capsule in place. It may be considered when the capsule is thin, not causing problems and removing it would add unnecessary risk. Your surgeon should explain how this may affect breast shape and recovery.

Partial capsulectomy removes part of the capsule when it is thickened, calcified or contributing to shape concerns. It may also be used to address selected capsule issues 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, some rupture scenarios or when capsule tissue should be removed for clinical reasons. Total capsulectomy can involve added risk, especially when implants are placed under the chest muscle.

Capsulotomy releases or scores the capsule rather than removing it. During implant removal, it may be used to improve drainage, reduce tightness or help the pocket settle, depending on surgical findings and surgeon preference.

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

For international patients, planning should cover how long to stay for follow ups, who to contact after hours and how post-op checks will continue after returning 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 according to anatomy and safety considerations.

Drains may be used in selected cases, especially when capsule work is more extensive. Dressings are applied and written aftercare instructions are provided 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 the surgical team.

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

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

• Allow enough time in destination for early wound checks and drain care if needed
• Choose accommodation that supports rest and limited lifting
• Arrange help 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 leave the facility the same day while others stay overnight, depending on the extent of revision and clinical assessment.

Post-op visits usually review incisions, swelling and signs of fluid buildup. If drains are used, the team checks output and decides when removal is appropriate.

Fitness to fly depends on wound status, mobility, swelling and personal risk factors. Your surgeon provides travel 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 the sites clean and monitoring output.

Many patients gradually increase light activity. Bruising often fades while swelling may 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 reduced volume, especially after long-term implants or larger implant sizes. A lift or fat grafting may be discussed later if desired and clinically appropriate.

• 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 once 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 through scheduled remote check ins. If new swelling, a lump or persistent pain develops 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, usually 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 broad network of private hospitals and surgical centers where breast revision procedures, including breast implant removal and capsulectomy, are commonly performed. Many teams work with international patients through pre-op review, anesthesia planning 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 returning home.

Iran has established plastic and reconstructive surgery services, including explant surgery in specialist clinics and hospitals. For international patients, careful planning should focus on verified specialist qualifications, facility standards, time in destination for early monitoring and clear guidance for questions after returning home.