Removal of breast implants, with or without capsulectomy, and optional contour refinement using autologous fat grafting or mastopexy. Umnagumo Plastic Surgery offers explantation as a fully individualized procedure rather than a one-size-fits-all operation.
Implant removal is requested for a range of reasons: lifestyle change, BIA-related concerns, capsular issues, or simply a wish to return to a non-implant breast shape. The procedure can be limited to implant explantation alone, or extended to include capsulectomy, mastopexy, and fat grafting in a single operation.
The post-removal breast shape depends on the original breast tissue, length of time the implant was in place, and skin quality. The plan is individualized based on imaging review and direct examination during consultation.
Explantation is performed via the existing scar where possible, or trans-axillary if the original incision was axillary. Total or partial capsulectomy is included based on capsule condition, implant history, and patient preference — en bloc capsulectomy is offered where appropriate.
Where post-removal contour refinement is desired, mastopexy and/or autologous fat grafting can be performed in the same session. The exact combination is decided during consultation with the help of imaging.
Recovery from explantation alone is generally faster than primary augmentation, with most patients resuming daily activity within 5–7 days. When mastopexy or fat grafting is added, recovery extends to 7–14 days.
Final breast shape after explantation typically settles over 3–6 months as the soft tissue redrapes. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the contour and plan any secondary refinements if needed.
Yes, in selected cases. Where the capsule is healthy and thin, simple explantation without capsulectomy is acceptable. Where the capsule is thickened, calcified, or contracted, partial or total capsulectomy is recommended.
En bloc capsulectomy is the removal of the implant together with its surrounding capsule as a single intact unit. It is offered where it is anatomically feasible and clinically indicated.
Fat grafting can restore moderate volume after explantation, with realistic expectations regarding final size. Multiple sessions may be required for substantial volume restoration. Suitability is assessed during consultation.
Not exactly. After years with an implant, the skin envelope and tissue have adapted to the implant. Mastopexy or fat grafting can refine the contour, but the breast will not return precisely to its pre-augmentation state.
For full clinical details, before-and-after photographs, and Korean-language patient information for this procedure, please refer to the Korean detail page.
View Korean detailThis page is part of the English overview. For all procedures and FAQs in English, see the English landing page.
