Breast Implant Removal
in Phoenix, AZ

Serving Phoenix, Paradise Valley, and Nearby Areas of Arizona

Even with the best techniques and talents, there are always risks that come with surgeries like breast augmentation. One of the most common complications of breast augmentation is capsular contracture, which can negatively affect your results and health. In this case, a secondary procedure to correct and replace your implants can be beneficial.

Table of Contents

Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue around a breast implant tightens and hardens, which can cause discomfort, distortion, and changes in breast appearance. As the condition progresses, it may lead to pain or noticeable asymmetry. Breast implant removal or replacement can help restore comfort and improve overall results.

Implant Rupture or Leak

Over time, breast implants can develop leaks or tears, leading to ruptured implants that may affect both appearance and health. Saline implant ruptures are often noticeable right away, while silicone ruptures can be more subtle and harder to detect. Removing the implant allows the issue to be addressed safely and prevents further complications.

Malposition or Displacement

Malposition or displacement happens when an implant shifts from its original position, resulting in uneven breasts or an unnatural look. This can occur due to tissue changes, trauma, or healing issues after surgery. Implant removal or revision surgery can help correct positioning and improve symmetry.

Breast Implant Illness

Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used to describe a range of symptoms some patients associate with their breast implants, such as fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog. While research is ongoing, many patients report symptom improvement after implant removal. A personalized consultation can help determine whether explant surgery may be appropriate.

BIA-ALCL

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of lymphoma linked primarily to textured breast implants. When diagnosed early, it is highly treatable, often through implant removal and capsulectomy. Monitoring symptoms and seeking timely evaluation are key to ensuring patient safety.

Your Customized Breast Implant Removal Procedure

There are several techniques and tools that can be used during this corrective procedure. Your plastic surgeon will create the ideal surgical plan for you based on your goals and complications.

Implant Exchange or Removal

Depending on the severity of your capsular contracture, your implants may be reinserted during the procedure or removed. Whether you decide to exchange your implants for new ones or remove them completely is up to you. During an exchange procedure, you can keep the same type and size of implant or choose new ones. If you opt to remove your implants, your plastic surgeon can discuss your options for rejuvenating your breasts after the implants are removed using specialized techniques.The crescent incision is a small, subtle cut made along the top edge of the areola. This technique is ideal for women with minimal sagging who want a slight lift, as it allows for gentle reshaping with minimal scarring.

Capsulectomy

During a capsulectomy, the layer of scar tissue surrounding the implant is removed surgically. The formation of scar tissue is a normal process during implant surgery and is the natural way your body ‘quarantines’ the foreign body. The capsule is often made of collagen, fibroblasts, and blood vessels. This only becomes problematic when it begins to displace the implant or cause pain and discomfort.

Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, our surgeon will take the time to understand your physical symptoms, review your medical history, and discuss any concerns related to your breast implants. This visit is also an opportunity to talk openly about your personal preferences and what changes you hope to achieve. By aligning your patient’s goals with clinical findings, our surgeon can recommend the most appropriate and personalized treatment plan.

Preview Your Breast Results Before Surgery

Vectra 3D imaging shows realistic previews of different implant sizes and shapes on your own body, helping you choose the look that feels right and move into surgery with confidence.

Surgical Procedure: What to Expect

Anesthesia

Breast implant removal is performed using local anesthesia with deep sedation. This approach allows patients to remain comfortable and pain-free during surgery while avoiding general anesthesia, which may reduce certain risks and shorten operative time. Our surgeon will determine the safest anesthesia plan based on your health and surgical goals.

Incisions

Incisions are typically made along existing scars from prior breast surgery whenever possible to minimize additional scarring. The placement and length of the incision depend on factors such as implant type, implant position, and whether additional procedures are required. Careful incision planning helps preserve the integrity of surrounding tissue and maintain a natural appearance of the breast skin.

Implant Removal

Once access is achieved, the breast implant is carefully removed. This step is performed with precision to avoid unnecessary disruption to surrounding tissue. Implant removal alone may be sufficient in some cases, while others may require additional surgical steps to address complications or improve comfort and aesthetics.

Capsule Removal

In certain situations, capsule removal may be recommended to address hardened scar tissue, inflammation, or other implant-related concerns. This involves removing part or all of the scar tissue that naturally forms around the implant. The extent of capsule removal is determined during surgical planning and tailored to the patient’s condition and goals.

Tissue Evaluation and Closure

After the implant and any necessary capsule tissue are removed, the surgeon evaluates the remaining tissue and contours the area as needed. The incisions are then carefully closed to support proper healing and maintain breast shape. Special attention is given to supporting the natural drape of the breast skin for balanced, aesthetically pleasing results.

Complementary Procedures

Breast Lift

A breast lift may be performed at the same time as implant removal to address loose skin and improve breast position. After implants are removed, many women notice sagging or a deflated appearance, which a lift can help correct. This procedure reshapes and elevates the breasts to create a more natural shape that better aligns with the body.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, uses a patient’s own fat cells to restore volume after implant removal. Many women opt for this option when they want a modest enhancement without new implants. Fat grafting can provide subtle fullness while maintaining a soft, natural look and feel.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Your recovery from this procedure will be similar to your recovery from breast augmentation or reconstruction. Your plastic surgeon will ensure you know what to expect and may also provide specific steps to help prevent capsular contracture in the future. This might include prescribed medications or massages. You can expect to take one or two weeks away from regular activities to rest and recover. Recovery Timeline

First Few Days: The initial phase of healing focuses on rest and protection. During this time, most patients begin to notice gradual improvement as post-surgical tightness and soreness are managed with prescribed care. Compression garments may be used to alleviate discomfort, control fluid buildup, and help reduce swelling.
Week 1: Activity remains limited as the body continues the recovery process. Follow-up visits allow your surgeon to monitor healing, provide guidance on incision care, and support strategies to minimize scarring. Many patients take a full week off work and regular routines.

Weeks 2-3: As healing progresses, daily comfort improves, and light activities may be resumed. Swelling continues to decrease, and patients often feel more mobile while still following movement restrictions.
Weeks 4-6: Within the next few weeks, most patients return to normal activities with continued improvement in appearance and comfort. Ongoing care and surgeon recommendations help ensure proper healing and long-term results.
Long-Term Recovery: Complete recovery after breast implant removal may take up to 12 months.

PATIENT REVIEWS

Real Patient Results

“Absolutely the best” ...

“Absolutely the best. Had a breast implant exchange due to a rupture (from another surgeon) and Dr. Ali Mosharrafa made it the easiest surgery ever.”

Am I a Candidate for Breast Implant
Removal Surgery?

It is important to note that not every woman who experiences capsular contracture will require corrective surgery. There are four different grades of capsular contracture, called Baker Grade I-IV.

In Grade I-II,a normal, soft, or slightly firm capsule forms around the implant, and the results are successful.
In Grades III-IV, the implant will feel firmer.

The implants can also be displaced, appearing uneven or crooked. During a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeons, we can assess your results and determine whether you might benefit from a corrective procedure.

Benefits of Breast Implant Removal

Women who experience complications with their breast augmentation or breast reconstruction results can benefit from a removal or exchange procedure with capsulectomy techniques. Depending on the grade of capsular contracture, the implants can become displaced by a capsule of scar tissue that forms around one or both. This can feel hard or even painful. Breast implant removal or exchange can be an effective way to correct your results and relieve capsular contracture.

The benefits of this procedure include:

Removal of hard or painful scar tissue

Replacement of implants that have become displaced or distorted

Improvement of the appearance of the breasts that have succumbed to capsular contracture

Each woman is unique in her results after breast augmentation or reconstruction, so a breast implant removal or exchange will be tailored to your specific situation and complications.

Cost of Breast Implant Removal in Phoenix, AZ

In Phoenix, the cost of breast implant removal typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,500, though your individual price can vary based on the specifics of your case. The total cost includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fees, facility charges, and any additional procedures you choose, such as a breast lift, that might alter the plan. An in-person consultation is the best way to get an accurate estimate based on your anatomy and goals. Mosharrafa Plastic Surgery also offers financing options to help make care more affordable.

Why Choose Mosharrafa
Plastic Surgery?

At Mosharrafa Plastic Surgery, we offer professional techniques in treating implant complications. During a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeons, we can discuss your best options for achieving your ideal results and finding relief from complications. To meet with us and learn more, contact our Phoenix office by calling or filling out our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can breast implants cause autoimmune disease?

No. Despite recent discussions surrounding breast implants and illness, there is no clear evidence that breast implants cause autoimmune disease.

How common is capsular contracture after breast augmentation?

The incidence of capsular contracture varies based on many factors, including the incision used, implant type, implant position, and surgical technique. Recent reports cite an overall incidence of 0% to 15% over 13 years.

How do you know if my implants are leaking?

In some cases, particularly with saline implants, you may notice a change in the appearance of your breast(s). The best study for detecting a leaking breast implant is an MRI.

How long does it take to recover from breast implant illness?

This is a very difficult question to answer. In cases where a patient recovers from illness without having her implants removed, the illness was not related to her implants. In some cases, removing implants can lead to an immediate improvement in symptoms, although the exact reason is unclear. This is important because it is possible that a patient who believes she has BII and has her implants surgically removed may continue to have the same symptoms after surgery.

Is breast implant illness covered by insurance?

No. Until we have a better understanding as to whether there is any link between breast implants and specific disease, insurance companies do not participate in the treatment of breast implant illness. Insurance companies may consider breast implant removal medically necessary in some circumstances, such as BIA-ALCL, but they will not cover the cost of breast implant removal for autoimmune disease, connective tissue disorders, or other systemic illnesses.

What are the symptoms of breast implant illness?

This is highly individual, as no clear guidelines have been established for the diagnosis. Reported symptoms include chronic pain, fatigue, anxiety, GI problems, memory loss, depression, sleep disturbances, and many others.

Is it possible to achieve a natural breast shape after having my breast implants removed?

Yes, achieving a natural result is very possible after implant removal. Your existing breast tissue, skin quality, and surgical plan all play a role in the final outcome. Many patients choose complementary procedures to help restore balance and contour, resulting in a more natural appearance, as reflected in our before-and-after photos.

Is there a higher risk of complications with textured implants?

Textured implants have been associated with certain risks, which is why some patients choose breast explant surgery for peace of mind. Individuals with concerns about systemic symptoms, including fatigue or brain fog, often seek evaluation to determine whether implant removal may be beneficial. A consultation helps assess individual risk and options.

Can I change my breast implant size after removal?

Yes, patients may choose to adjust their breast size after implants are removed. Depending on your goals, this can involve additional breast procedures, such as replacing old implants with new implants of a different size or selecting alternative techniques to enhance shape and volume.

Does breast reconstruction require breast implant removal?

In many cases, breast reconstruction surgery may involve removing existing implants, especially if they are damaged, outdated, or causing complications. Treatment plans are highly individualized, and our surgeons have undergone extensive training to determine the most appropriate reconstructive approach for each patient.

What is en bloc breast implant removal?

En bloc removal is a technique in which the implant and surrounding scar tissue are removed together as one unit. This approach may be recommended for certain breast augmentation patients, particularly in complex cases or when implants are being removed as part of reconstructive surgery.

Can I combine breast implant removal with other procedures?

Yes, breast implant removal is often performed alongside other cosmetic procedures for more comprehensive results. Options may include a tummy tuck, lift, or breast revision, and many patients find that combining procedures can streamline recovery and enhance overall outcomes.

Do you provide services for patients from nearby areas?

Yes, we proudly serve patients from Phoenix and the surrounding Arizona areas. Many individuals travel to our practice specifically for implant removal, seeking specialized care.

Does insurance cover breast implant removal?

Insurance coverage varies depending on the reason for surgery. Procedures performed for medical necessity may be eligible for coverage, while implant removal done for cosmetic reasons is typically not covered. Our team can help guide you through the insurance review process during your consultation.

Expert Surgeons

SERVING YOU WITH INTEGRITY

Mosharrafa Plastic Surgery has been providing a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services to men and women in the Phoenix area since 1996. Dr. Ali Mosharrafa and Dr. Tamir Mosharrafa have been practicing in the Phoenix area ever since, and are now joined by Dr. Martin Benjamin. Together, Drs. Ali Mosharrafa, Tamir Mosharrafa, and Martin Benjamin offer a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic services, combining decades of experience with the latest techniques in breast, body, and facial rejuvenation.

Breast Implant Removal in Phoenix, AZ