Breast Implant Removal
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Over time your aesthetic goals may change. You may have had your implants in place for an extended amount of time or even noticed a change that warrants investigation. You may want to reduce or increase your implant size. Patients who have had prior breast augmentation surgery may wish to seek a consultation with Dr. Ratanshi for breast implant removal.
Our Surrey Breast Implant Removal Surgery may be as simple as removing the implant through your prior incision under local freezing or it may be more involved requiring a general anesthetic and other adjunct procedures to manage the capsule and overall appearance. Questions and concerns will vary from person to person. During your consultation for breast implant removal Surrey plastic surgeon, Dr. Imran Ratanshi, will review your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan that works best for you.
Some patients may wish to remove the scar capsule surrounding the implant together with the implant itself. You may be experiencing symptoms of a tight capsule or have identified an implant rupture on imaging or clinically. In the setting of patients who have had textured implants placed, you may be concerned about the risk of developing Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Given the low incidence, current guidelines recommend observation in the absence of clinical symptoms.
Some patients may read about having the entire 'en bloc’ capsulectomy.
Patients who have had textured implants placed for cosmetic augmentation may wish to have the entire capsule removed at the time of their surgery. The implant can be replaced with a smooth round implant or removed altogether.
When your breast implant is removed, there will be a reduction in breast volume. However, the skin may not recoil back to its original state resulting in a deflated breast appearance. A Breast Lift can be performed at the same time as your removal to help reposition the breast back to a more natural position with improved shape.
Dr. Ratanshi regularly performs breast restorative surgery and reconstructive surgery as part of his practice. In particular, he maintains a significant breast cancer reconstructive practice. Breast deformities addressed vary from simple scar revisions to more complex cases of asymmetry.
Breast implant illness is a concern raised by some patients who have expressed interest in Breast Implant Removal. It is currently a hot button issue raised in social media and online. Breast Implant Illness refers to a constellation of symptoms reported by some women after placement of breast implants, including, but not limited to:
Unlike BIA-ALCL, a scientifically known condition related to breast implants, there is no science to confirm or deny the existence of Breast Implant Illness. Multiple studies have been carried out and are underway to evaluate this presentation. Unfortunately, there is no test or clinical finding identified or available to prove the presence of Breast Implant Illness. As a result, Breast Implant Illness is not an official medical diagnosis (nor is there a diagnosis code in the United States). Identifying the presence of Breast Implant Illness is very difficult, as there are many conditions that can contribute to the above symptoms.
As a result, Breast Implant Illness remains a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that other more common causes should be investigated with your Primary Care Provider or Specialist before considering implant removal.
In the past, there was concern about a relationship between developing autoimmune disease and prior breast implant placement. However, to date, there has been no strong scientific evidence supporting a link between silicone and autoimmune disease.
There are also no studies that indicate which symptoms may or may not improve with implant removal with or without capsulectomy. While some patients report experiencing symptom improvement, others may not. Studies are on-going to investigate this further.
Further information can be found at the Breast Implant Patient Safety Resource Page from The Aesthetic Society (formerly known as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons).
https://www.theaestheticsociety.org/medical-professionals/patient-safety/breast-implant-resources
If you are concerned about Breast Implant Illness, you may have your implants removed. However, in the absence of an active infection necessitating imminent removal, the removal of implants placed for cosmetic purposes is NOT a benefit of the British Columbia Medical Services Plan.
Recovery after breast implant removal involves managing mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which typically subside within a few weeks. Dr. Ratanshi in Surrey, BC, provides personalized aftercare, emphasizing rest, supportive garments, and avoiding strenuous activities. Most patients resume light activities within a week and achieve full recovery in several months, ensuring optimal outcomes under Dr. Ratanshi’s attentive guidance.
Starting at $14,500 + GST
Surgery to remove breast implants placed for prior cosmetic reasons is not a benefit of the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP), with very few exceptions (such as emergent intervention for active infection). Revisions in these cases are considered cosmetic and subject to a private fee. The cost of surgery varies depending on the size of implant (larger implants require more time to remove), the presence of any asymmetries, and if any or most of the capsule needs to be removed (attempted en bloc). A Breast Lift is often required in addition to reshape your breast, as the breast will appear deflated once the implant is removed.
Dr. Ratanshi has also partnered with Beautifi and iFinance Canada to provide alternative options for you if needed. You can review rates and terms at the links below. You may also wish to discuss financing with your private lender.
Breast Implant Illness (BII) encompasses symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog that some women experience after breast augmentation. Though not officially recognized as a diagnosis, Dr. Imran Ratanshi provides comprehensive consultations to address concerns, validate symptoms, and explore tailored solutions such as implant removal or en bloc capsulectomy, prioritizing patient health and well-being.
An en bloc capsulectomy is a surgical technique that removes breast implants and surrounding scar tissue (capsule) as one unit, minimizing the risk of silicone leakage or contamination. En bloc capsulectomy is typically used when removing breast implants in cases where there are complications such as implant rupture, leakage, or severe capsular contracture. It is also sometimes recommended for patients experiencing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness or for those seeking complete removal of implants and associated scar tissue to minimize the risk of contamination or residual material.
Dr. Ratanshi prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction above all. He is a double subspecialty-trained Plastic Surgeon and regularly performs aesthetic and reconstructive breast and body surgery as part of his practice. Dr. Ratanshi aims to utilize the latest evidence-based techniques and technology to deliver exceptional results. Dr. Ratanshi is committed to making your journey to enhanced beauty as comfortable and rewarding as possible.
