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The Purpose of Breast Implant Removal
Relief from Symptoms
Can resolve physical discomfort, heaviness, or concerns related to Breast Implant Illness (BII).
Natural Lifestyle
Freedom from future implant maintenance, MRI screenings, and potential rupture risks.
Enhanced Comfort
Alleviates neck, back, and shoulder pain often associated with older, heavy implants.
Expected Results
While volume is reduced, the goal is a beautiful, healthy breast shape. The final look depends heavily on your natural tissue quality and whether a lift is performed.
Reduced Volume
Your breast size will decrease significantly, returning closer to your pre-augmentation cup size.
Softer Feel
Without the implant shell or capsule, the breast will feel softer and move more naturally.
Potential Laxity
Some skin laxity is normal. If significant, a simultaneous breast lift is highly recommended to tighten the envelope.
5-Star Experiences
Dr Neavin. he has an amazing bedside manner. He really took the time to understand what I was looking for. He gave me his professional opinion and we went with a fat transfer and blepharoplasty . I coordinated with Michelle who was also just as awesome. It was so easy to get a hold Dr. Neavin and Michelle after surgery to address my concerns. That was extremely important to me. Dr Neavin gave post surgery instructions and checked on my months after surgery to make sure I was happy. I've already been told that I look way younger that my age! I will be going back to Dr. Neavin for future procedures. I trust him and his work. I definitely recommend him
"Dr.Neavin and his staff did a great job educating before the surgery and also consulting afterwards during post care. I have been very happy with my results and would highly recommend them to anyone considering cosmetic surgery! Very satisfied with final results"
Removal Techniques
Dr. Neavin selects the technique based on your health goals and the condition of the capsule.
01 Simple Explant
02 En-Bloc Capsulectomy
03 Total Capsulectomy
04 Explant with Lift
Candidates
Ideal Candidates
- Change in Preference: You feel your implants are too large or no longer fit your lifestyle.
- Physical Symptoms: Experiencing capsular contracture (hardening), pain, or rupture.
- BII Concerns: Seeking removal due to systemic symptoms attributed to implants.
- Maintenance Free: You no longer wish to commit to future implant exchanges.
Not Ideal Candidates
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Unrealistic Expectations: Expecting the breast to look exactly as it did before the original augmentation (tissue stretches over time).
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Unwilling to Lift: If you have significant sagging but refuse a mastopexy (lift), the result may appear deflated.
Surgery Day Journey
Arrival & Plan
The Procedure
Recovery Room
Healing Timeline
Every patient heals differently, but this timeline offers a general guide for your return to daily life.
Days 1-3
Rest and manage drains (if placed). Mild soreness is expected.
Week 1
Drains are typically removed. Return to light desk work.
Week 3-4
Swelling subsides significantly. Resume light cardio.
Month 3
Breasts settle into their final, natural shape.
Safety &
Potential Risks
Explant surgery is generally safe, but removing the capsule (capsulectomy) is a more complex surgery than simple augmentation. Dr. Neavin prioritizes safety, sometimes leaving a small portion of the capsule if it is dangerously adhered to the lung lining or ribs (pneumothorax risk).
Important Considerations
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Aesthetic Changes: Deflation, loose skin, or indentations (if no lift is performed).
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Seroma: Fluid buildup in the pocket (managed with drains).
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Bleeding/Hematoma: Rare, but possible with extensive capsule removal.
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Pneumothorax: extremely rare risk during aggressive removal of capsules attached to the rib cage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my breasts look saggy after removal?
Artistry Meets
Surgical Precision
Explant surgery requires a different skillset than augmentation. It demands meticulous dissection to remove the entire capsule (en-bloc) when necessary and an artistic eye to reshape the remaining tissue. Dr. Neavin is renowned for his ability to preserve breast aesthetics after removal, often combining explant with a lift or fat transfer to avoid a “deflated” look.
Beverly Hills & Santa Barbara
Start Your Transformation
Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Neavin today.