SURGICAL PROCEDURE
Removal + Uplift / Mastopexy
TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Breast Implant Removal combined with Uplift, also professionally known as Explantation and Mastopexy, is a highly specialised surgical procedure. This dual-action surgery is designed for women who wish to remove their breast implants while also desiring a breast lift to rejuvenate their natural breast tissue. The procedure is often sought by women who have experienced complications with their implants, such as capsular contracture, or those who have undergone lifestyle changes that have led them to reconsider their implants.
Additionally, factors like ageing, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle choices can contribute to the desire or need for this procedure. The surgery aims to remove the implants safely and lift and reshape the natural breast tissue, thereby achieving a youthful and uplifted appearance that aligns with the patient’s body image and comfort level.
Additionally, factors like ageing, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle choices can contribute to the desire or need for this procedure. The surgery aims to remove the implants safely and lift and reshape the natural breast tissue, thereby achieving a youthful and uplifted appearance that aligns with the patient’s body image and comfort level.
THE PROCEDURE
The first step in this transformative journey is an all-encompassing consultation with your board-certified surgeon. This session allows for a thorough medical evaluation, including a comprehensive review of your medical history, a detailed physical examination, and possibly advanced imaging studies like mammograms or ultrasounds. The surgeon will discuss your concerns, expectations, and potential risks or complications in depth. This consultation is not just a formality but a crucial step for aligning your goals with the surgical options available, ensuring that you are fully informed and comfortable with the planned procedure.
Due to the intricacy of this procedure, general anaesthesia will be recommended. It takes into account your overall health, comfort level, and the complexity of the procedure. Both local anaesthesia with sedation and general anaesthesia are options, with the final choice being tailored to your specific needs and the surgeon’s expert recommendations.Â
The surgery involves two main steps: removing the existing breast implants and uplifting or Mastopexy. Incisions are carefully planned to minimise visible scarring, often utilising the scars from the initial breast augmentation surgery for aesthetic continuity. Once the implants are safely removed, the surgeon lifts and reshapes the natural breast tissue. Excess skin may be removed, and the nipple-areola complex may be repositioned to achieve a natural-looking result. The incisions are then closed with surgical precision, and antibiotic ointments may be applied to minimise the risk of infection. Sterile dressings and surgical drains may also be placed to facilitate healing and reduce swelling.
AT A GLANCE
- Surgery: 3 Hours
- Time off work: 3 Weeks
- Before you drive: 14 Days
- Return to Gym 4 Weeks
- Lift a small child: 4 Weeks
- Final Results: 3 - 6 Months
PLEASE NOTE: While some results may be visible sooner, final results often take a few months for swelling to fully subside and implants settle into their final position.
Actual return to activity times will be discussed and agreed with your Surgeon.
Actual return to activity times will be discussed and agreed with your Surgeon.
THE BENEFITS
You may choose to undergo Breast Implant Removal and Uplift for a number of reasons:
The aesthetic outcome of this dual procedure is a return to natural breast size with a lifted and youthful appearance. The procedure can correct sagging and restore a more balanced and harmonious body silhouette. The uplifted breasts complement the body’s natural curves, enhancing overall physical attractiveness.
The removal of breast implants can alleviate physical discomfort or complications related to the implants, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. The lift can also reduce skin irritation caused by sagging breasts, improving overall comfort in daily activities like exercise and sleep.
The procedure often leads to a significant improvement in self-esteem and body image. The emotional relief of resolving any complications related to previous implants can be profound, leading to increased overall well-being. Many patients report a renewed sense of self and a more positive outlook on life following the procedure.
RISKS
While surgical procedures offer the potential for significant improvements in health and well-being, it is crucial to understand that they are not without risks. All surgical interventions carry inherent risks, which may include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, scarring, and the possibility of unsatisfactory results. The specific risks associated with your procedure will be discussed in detail during your pre-operative consultations with our medical team. Our dedicated staff will work closely with you to minimise these risks, ensuring the safest and most successful outcome possible. It’s essential to follow all pre and post-operative instructions meticulously to reduce the likelihood of complications.
THINGS TO AVOID
AFTER SURGERY
- Heavy lifting of children or objects that put strain on your chest muscles for at least 4-6 weeks
- Sleeping on your stomach or sides for the first few weeks
- Smoking and alcohol consumption, as they can impede the healing process
- Prolonged sun exposure, especially to the surgical scars
- Tight or constrictive bras or clothing that may irritate incision sites.
- Wearing underwire bras until cleared by your surgeon
- Swimming pools, hot tubs, or saunas to avoid infection risks.
Post Op
AFTERCARE
- Medication Regimen: A regimen of antibiotic ointments and oral pain relievers is often prescribed to prevent infection and manage pain.
- Environmental Precautions: Sun exposure should be minimised for several weeks post-surgery to prevent pigmentation changes in the healing scars.
- Nutritional Guidelines: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, particularly protein and vitamins, can expedite recovery.
- Regular Follow-Up Visits: These are essential for monitoring the healing process, removing surgical drains, and making necessary aftercare regimen adjustments.
"Really informative Consultation. Mark and Steve are great. It was a really nice place and the staff were lovely!"
FAQs
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, scarring, and anaesthesia complications. Specific to this procedure, there might be risks of asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation, and complications related to the breast lift.
While the combined procedure aims to preserve the milk ducts, there’s a possibility that breastfeeding capability could be affected. It’s essential to discuss this with your surgeon if future breastfeeding is a concern.
The combined procedure addresses both the removal of the implant and the reshaping of the natural breast tissue. In contrast, a standalone explant focuses only on implant removal, and a standalone lift focuses on reshaping and lifting the breast without implant removal.
Aftercare typically involves wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, attending follow-up appointments, and following the surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, medications, and potential signs of complications.