There are multiple situations where a person may want to have one or both breast implants removed. While implant removal is possible, it can be a complex procedure and should be performed by a skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who is familiar with the implant-removal process.
There are several techniques that can be used to perform an implant removal. During your initial consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Morwood will assess the condition of your breast implants in order to determine the best approach for your implant removal.
En Bloc Removal
One of the possible options for implant removal is the en bloc removal. This option is often the ideal choice, because it significantly reduces the likelihood of the patient experiencing health issues as a result of the implant removal.
In order to understand how en bloc removal works, it is important to understand what happens after a breast implant is inserted into the breasts.
The body naturally forms a capsule of scar tissue around the breast implant to protect the body, because it recognizes the implant as a foreign object. This capsule encases the implant like a balloon. If the capsule forms in a normal manner, you should not be able to feel it and it should not have any adverse effect on the appearance of your implants.
In some cases, however, capsular contracture occurs. This is a condition where the scar tissue is thicker than normal, causing the capsule to contract and tighten around the implant. Capsular contracture can cause stiffness, pain, and aesthetic issues.
Other methods of implant removal compromise the integrity of the scar-tissue capsule. En bloc removal involves removing the implant and capsule while the capsule is still intact and the implant is still encased in the capsule of scar tissue.
The benefit of removing the implant in this manner is that it ensures greater safety if the implant is damaged and leaking or has been compromised due to old age. In cases where the implant is leaking, the capsule acts as a secondary barrier that prevents silicone, bacteria, and other potentially harmful substances from entering the body. It also aids in resolution of capsular contracture.
Am I a Good Candidate for En Bloc Removal?
There are certain situations when en bloc is not a viable option for implant removal. One of the key factors that determines if en bloc is viable is the condition of the capsule. If the the scar tissue of the capsule is too thin, it may be too risky to attempt en bloc, as the capsule may rupture and leak. If the capsule is too tightly attached to the tissue of the chest wall, en bloc also may not be an option.
Are You Interested in En Bloc Removal?
Dr. Morwood has over 20 years’ experience as a plastic surgeon, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and for years he has served as either the chief or vice chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery of Monterey.
For more information about Dr. Morwood or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us here.
