Breast
Implant removal (explant)
Implant removal with care and close support.
Duration
1.5-3 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Recovery
5-10 days
Overview
Explant surgery is the removal of breast implants, whether by personal choice, discomfort, changes over time, or medical indication. Depending on your case, removal alone may be performed or combined with a lift to reaccommodate the tissue. Dr. Hermes supports you in this decision with respect and a humanistic approach, caring for you before, during, and after.
Dr. Hermes's approach
Whenever possible, Dr. Hermes uses the previous scar to remove the implant and, depending on the case, part or all of the tissue capsule surrounding it. If repositioning the tissue is advisable after removal, he can add a lift during the same surgery. His close, safety-first approach seeks a natural result and attentive support throughout your recovery.
Risks and honesty
Like all surgery, risks exist: hematoma, seroma (fluid buildup), infection, asymmetry, and changes in nipple sensation. After implants are removed, the breast may look smaller, with less fullness or some laxity, which is sometimes addressed with a lift. Dr. Hermes reduces these risks with careful technique and close follow-up, but no procedure is risk-free and results vary.
Are you a good candidate?
It's for those who wish to remove their implants by personal preference, discomfort, capsular contracture, or another medical indication. Some patients choose not to replace them, and others combine explant with a lift. Good overall health, not smoking, and a conversation with Dr. Hermes to understand how the breast will look based on your tissue are ideal.
Pricing & financing
We share transparent, personalized pricing at your consultation. Ask about the financing options available.
Ready to take the first step?Recovery, step by step
- 01
First days (0-3)
Mild to moderate discomfort controlled with medication. You'll wear a supportive bra and rest. A temporary drain may be placed depending on the case. Swelling is typical of this stage.
- 02
Weeks 1-2
Swelling begins to subside and you can resume light tasks and desk work. You continue with the supportive bra and avoid exertion. Exercise restrictions remain in place.
- 03
Weeks 3-6
Swelling decreases noticeably and the breast shape becomes more defined. Return to low-impact activities, still avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise. If a lift was performed, scars are maturing.
- 04
Months 2-6
The tissue settles and the final shape becomes clearer. Progressive return to full exercise. If the previous scar was used, there are usually no new visible scars. Caring for the area and sun protection support better evolution.
Frequently asked
It depends on your tissue, the previous implant size, and how long you've had it. It's common for the breast to look smaller and less full, and sometimes with some laxity. A lift can help reaccommodate the tissue. Dr. Hermes will explain in consultation what to expect in your particular case.
Not always. The capsule is the tissue the body naturally forms around the implant. In some cases partial or full removal is advisable, and in others it isn't necessary. Dr. Hermes decides the safest approach based on your findings and your reason for explanting, discussing it with you.
In many cases yes. Combining explant with a lift allows repositioning the tissue and improving the shape in a single recovery. The decision depends on your anatomy and what is safe to do at the same time. Dr. Hermes assesses this with you in consultation, always prioritizing your safety.
In person or virtual
Let us talk about your case
Tell me what you are looking for and my team will contact you to coordinate your in-person or virtual evaluation.
- We review your goals calmly and without pressure.
- We guide you toward the right procedure for your case.
- We coordinate the next steps by WhatsApp or phone.