What is Breast Explant?

A breast explant refers to the surgical procedure in which breast implants are removed from the body. This can be done for various reasons, whether medical, cosmetic, or personal. The term "explant" specifically refers to the removal of implants (whether saline or silicone) from the breasts.

Breast Explant Journey

Breast Explant Pre-Operative Tests

Before undergoing breast explant surgery, certain tests and evaluations are essential to ensure your safety and readiness for the procedure. Here’s an overview of the standard pre-op tests you'll likely undergo when you arrive at the hospital in Thailand:

• Blood Tests: These tests are critical for assessing your overall health. They screen for infections, check your blood count to ensure you’re not anemic, and evaluate your blood's ability to clot properly, reducing the risk of complications during surgery.

• Chest X-Ray: A chest X-ray helps evaluate the health of your heart and lungs, ensuring that they are functioning well and ready for the stress of surgery.

• Mammogram: A mammogram is used to check for any underlying issues in the breast tissue before surgery. Women over 40 are typically required to have one to rule out any hidden conditions or abnormalities.

• ECG (Electrocardiogram): An ECG is performed to assess the electrical activity of your heart. It ensures your heart is healthy and functioning properly, minimizing the risk of complications during surgery, especially if you have a history of heart concerns.

• Physical Exam: A thorough physical exam will be performed by your doctor to ensure you’re physically fit for surgery. The doctor will evaluate your general health and address any medical concerns that could affect your surgery or recovery.

These pre-op tests are crucial for making sure you’re in optimal health for the procedure, and they help to minimize any potential risks.

Breast Explant Procedure Overview

The breast explant procedure is a carefully planned and executed process designed to achieve the best possible results for each individual. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:

1. Consultation

• Before undergoing the procedure, you will have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

• This is the perfect time for you to ask any questions and clarify doubts to ensure you're fully informed about the procedure.

2. Anesthesia

• Breast explant is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain completely asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. This step prioritizes your safety and minimizes discomfort during the surgery.

3. Incision

The surgeon will use the same incisions made during your initial breast augmentation surgery, which could be:

• Under the breast (in the crease).

• Around the areola (the dark area around the nipple).

• In the armpit (if that was the original site of placement).

The location of the incisions depends on where the implants were originally placed and the surgeon's approach.

4. Implant Removal

The procedure can vary depending on the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue:

• Saline Implants

• Silicone Implants

Aftercare:

Post-surgery, you’ll need to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions, which includes wearing a support bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and scheduling follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

Recovery:

• Most patients are able to return to light activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for about 4 to 6 weeks.

• A follow-up visit will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the best results.

Results:

• The final appearance of your breasts after explant surgery will depend on factors like skin elasticity, implant size, and the presence of any sagging.

• If a breast lift was performed, your breasts will have a more youthful, lifted appearance.

• If a lift was not performed, you may have a flatter or less full breast shape compared to when you had implants.

MediCation Tours Breast Explant Package Inclusions:

Our comprehensive Breast Explant package is designed to provide you with an exceptional and seamless experience, from start to finish. Here's what is included:

• 7 Nights’ Accommodation: Stay in comfort at a luxurious 4-star hotel, carefully selected for its high standards of service and comfort.

• Hotel Room: Enjoy a spacious, well-appointed room that ensures your complete relaxation and comfort during your stay.

• Daily Breakfast: Begin each day with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your recovery and provide energy for the day ahead.

• Airport, Hotel, and Hospital Transfers: We take care of all logistics, providing convenient and comfortable transfers to ensure smooth transitions between your hotel, the airport, and the hospital.

• Plastic Surgeon Fees: All consultation and procedure fees for the renowned plastic surgeon are included, ensuring expert care throughout the process.

• Anesthesia Fees: Rest easy knowing that anesthesia costs are also included in the package, ensuring your comfort and safety during the procedure.

• 1 Night Stay in Hospital: Benefit from a luxurious one-night hospital stay with VIP nursing care.

• Hospital Meals: Enjoy nutritious, well-balanced meals during your hospital stay, ensuring comfort and proper nourishment while you rest.

• Take-Home Medications: You’ll receive medications to support your healing process and minimize any discomfort during your recovery.

• Follow-Up Appointments: We offer post-surgery follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, ensuring you’re on the right track to achieving the best results possible.

Breast Explant Package Exclusions

• Flights: Your flights to and from Thailand are not included.

• Personal Expenses: Costs for things you do for fun or sightseeing are not included.

• Compression Bras / Garments 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is breast explant surgery?

Breast explant surgery is the removal of breast implants from the body. It can be done for various reasons, including health concerns, changes in appearance, complications with the implants, or personal preference.

2. Why would someone choose breast explant surgery?

There are several reasons why someone might opt for explant surgery:

• Health issues such as Breast Implant Illness (BII).

• Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant).

• Implant rupture or leakage.

• Desire for a more natural look or a change in body image.

• Breast asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the current implant size or appearance.

• Changes in lifestyle (e.g., pregnancy, weight loss).

3. What happens during the breast explant procedure?

The procedure involves the removal of the implants through small incisions (often in the same location as the original implants). The surgeon may also remove the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) if necessary. If desired, a breast lift (mastopexy) can be performed at the same time to improve the breast shape.

4. Is breast explant surgery painful?

Breast explant surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon.

5. How long is the recovery process?

Recovery from breast explant surgery typically takes about 4-6 weeks. During the first few days, you'll need to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and you'll be able to return to normal activities, although you should avoid heavy lifting or exercise for several weeks.

6. Will I need a breast lift after explant surgery?

A breast lift is not always necessary but may be recommended, especially if you experience sagging or loss of breast volume after the implants are removed. Your surgeon will evaluate your breast tissue and recommend a lift if needed to restore shape and firmness.

7. How long will the results last?

The results of breast explant surgery are permanent, but the overall appearance of your breasts will depend on factors such as your skin's elasticity, age, and whether a breast lift was performed. Over time, natural changes in your body may affect the appearance of your breasts.

8. Are there risks associated with breast explant surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including:

• Infection.

• Bleeding.

• Scarring.

• Changes in nipple sensation (numbness or hypersensitivity).

• Asymmetry or irregular breast shape.

• Seroma (fluid accumulation) or hematoma (blood collection).

These risks are rare but can be minimized with a qualified and experienced surgeon.

9. Will my breasts be "deflated" after explant surgery?

After breast explant surgery, it’s possible that your breasts may appear smaller, softer, or “deflated,” especially if the implants were large or you had significant volume added. In some cases, a breast lift can help restore shape and firmness.

10. Can I have new implants after explant surgery?

Yes, it is possible to get new implants after explant surgery, depending on your goals and the health of your breast tissue. Some people choose to upgrade or change the size or type of their implants, while others may opt for a natural look without any implants.

11. Can I have the implants removed and not replace them?

Yes, many women choose to have their implants removed without replacing them. This option is often chosen if someone desires a more natural breast appearance or experiences health issues associated with the implants.

12. Can I breastfeed after explant surgery?

In most cases, women can breastfeed after breast explant surgery. However, the ability to breastfeed can depend on factors such as the type of incision made, whether a breast lift was performed, and the condition of the breast tissue. It’s important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon before the procedure.