Breast Revision vs. Implant Removal

Breast Revision vs. Implant RemovalBreast implants are not lifetime devices, and many women eventually consider either breast revision surgery or implant removal. The right choice depends on your goals, your health, and the condition of your implants. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides breast revision to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What Is Breast Revision?

Breast revision surgery involves replacing or adjusting implants. Reasons may include:

  • Desire for a different size, shape, or type of implant

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

  • Implant rupture or leakage

  • Implant shifting or asymmetry

  • Cosmetic changes after pregnancy, aging, or weight loss

What Is Implant Removal?

Implant removal, also called explant surgery, involves taking implants out completely. Some patients choose to combine removal with a breast lift to restore a youthful contour. Reasons for removal include:

  • Preference for a natural look without implants

  • Health concerns such as Breast Implant Illness (BII) or BIA-ALCL

  • Complications like rupture or chronic discomfort

  • Lifestyle changes that make implants less desirable

Key Differences

Factor Breast Revision Implant Removal
Goal Replace/adjust implants Remove implants entirely
Aesthetic outcome Maintains augmented look Restores natural size/shape
Long-term maintenance May require future revisions No future implant maintenance
Recovery 2–4 weeks 2–6 weeks, longer if combined with lift

When to Consider Each Option

  • Breast revision may be best if you still want implants but want to change their size, type, or placement.

  • Implant removal may be best if you no longer want implants, are experiencing health issues, or prefer a more natural breast appearance.

Combining With a Breast Lift

Both revision and removal can be combined with a breast lift. This is especially helpful if you’ve experienced sagging over time, ensuring a more youthful and balanced shape.

Contact Us

If you’re deciding between breast revision and implant removal, our experienced surgical team can help guide you toward the option that best matches your health and aesthetic goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.