What Is Breast Implant Removal?
When you are searching for the right doctor to perform breast implant removal, we understand at Vinyard Institute of Plastic Surgery (VIPS) how important it is to choose a surgeon who has great skill and experience. Our board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon, Dr. William Vinyard, would like to take this journey with you using a capsulectomy, breast implant exchange, or mastopexy. We are very fortunate to have Dr. Vinyard, an advanced, fellowship-trained reconstructive surgeon in Port Saint Lucie, FL to offer you multiple options regarding breast implant removal.
With personalized explant surgery options available, we want you to feel empowered as you make decisions to reestablish your sense of self. Your overall health, surgical history, and how you want your breasts to look will all be taken into consideration as Dr. Vinyard designs a custom breast implant removal plan for you. To get the process started today, please call and schedule your consultation with us as soon as it is convenient for you.
Breast Implant Removal Reviews
Am I a Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a very personalized procedure. Every patient will have a thorough consultation with Dr. Vinyard to create their treatment plan based on their needs, concerns, and appropriate options. He will take the time necessary to get to know you, your case, and your expectations during this time. As this can be a time-consuming and emotional process, please know that we are here to listen and accommodate what you will need in order to accomplish explant surgery.
When you are in our office for your consultation, we will also take photos of you for documentation and surgical planning. Dr. Vinyard will then begin your consultation, which will consist of a physical exam, an analysis of your breasts, and a comprehensive review of your surgical options. Afterward, you will meet with the patient care coordinator who will discuss dates that are available for your breast implant removal. You can expect to spend at least an hour and a half at this appointment.
How is Breast Implant Removal Performed?
There are a variety of techniques available today for breast implant removal with many factors that Dr. Vinyard considers when determining the technique that will produce your best results. The most common techniques used by our practice are:
- Total Capsulectomy
When an object, such as a breast implant, is left inside of our body, it begins to form a protective shell known as a capsule. However, some patients can experience capsular contracture, which causes these tissues to become incredibly dense and contract, causing pain and distortion in the breast. A total capsulectomy enables our staff to surgically remove these scar tissues and restore comfort to the patient. During this process, the capsule is removed separately from the breast implant.
- En Bloc Capsulectomy
An en bloc capsulectomy is performed to remove the entire capsule in one piece with the breast implant still inside the capsule. The en bloc capsulectomy isn't always a guarantee, as this procedure may not be possible depending on the placement of the breast implants.
- Breast Implant Exchange
As the most straightforward of breast implant removal techniques, breast implant exchange simply involves replacing one implant with another. This may be done for a variety of reasons, including using a different type, texture, or size of an implant. Additionally, some patients will simply need to have their implants exchanged after many years of use.
- Mastopexy
Also known as a breast lift, mastopexies are often combined with breast implant removal surgeries in order to correct sagging breasts. Some patients may also find it necessary to receive a breast lift to deal with any weakened breast tissue and/or skin. This process involves excising loose skin from the breasts in order to give them a lighter, perkier appearance.
Regardless of the surgical technique, your breast implant removal will be performed in the hospital so that your recovery can be monitored by a post-op nursing team.
What Is the Recovery Process After Breast Implant Removal?
Each patient's recovery varies slightly, depending upon their past medical history, current medical treatment, and approach to breast implant removal. On average, you will be able to return to most of your regular activities in about two weeks, like sedentary work and very light tasks around the house. Due to the unique nature of each patient's recovery, Dr. Vinyard and our staff will walk you through what to expect at each visit following the explant surgery.
Breast Implant Removal FAQ
How much does breast implant removal cost?
At your consultation, Dr. Vinyard will listen to your needs and goals before crafting your custom breast implant removal plan. Once this is done, he can talk to you about cost estimates, payment methods, and low-interest financing.
Does insurance cover breast implant removal?
Due to its cosmetic nature, breast implant removal is not typically covered by insurance. However, we can work with patients to find financing options and payment plans that fit within their budget.
Which technique should I choose for breast implant removal?
There is no single technique that is right for everyone. The best one for you will depend on your needs, goals, and body. If you are more comfortable with a certain technique, please bring it up in your appointment with Dr. Vinyard. During your consultation, Dr. Vinyard can go over your options so you understand the benefits and challenges of both before you decide on your treatment plan. We are here to help. Dr. Vinyard will do his best to give you natural-looking results with compassionate care throughout this process.

Plan Your Procedure
- Recovery Time
- 1 – 4 Weeks
- Average Procedure Time
- Varies
- Post-op Follow-up
- 1 – 3 Days
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Inpatient/Outpatient
Rethink Your Breasts
At Vinyard Institute of Plastic Surgery, we firmly believe that our patients deserve extraordinary care with natural-looking results. If you are currently unhappy with the appearance or feel of your breast implants, we invite you to call our office in Port Saint Lucie, FL to schedule your consultation with Dr. Vinyard. As a highly trained plastic surgeon, he will be able to determine which breast implant removal technique will be best in helping you reach your aesthetic goals.