Implant removal
The key facts
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How does implant removal work?
Over the years, silicone implants – whether inserted for aesthetic reasons or as part of breast reconstruction – can cause discomfort that make it necessary to remove the implants. The most common cause is what is known as capsular contracture: A natural reaction of the body in which a connective tissue capsule forms around the implant. This can harden, causing pain and changing the shape of the breast.
The exact causes of capsular contracture are not yet fully understood. If symptoms or noticeable changes occur, surgery is usually necessary. This surgery is to remove the implant and the hardened capsule tissue.
Some patients report non-specific symptoms that they attribute to their breast implants. The causes have not yet been conclusively researched, which is why we respond to your symptoms on a case by case basis and work with you to develop the best possible treatment strategy.
If you do not wish to have new implants inserted, the breast can be reshaped in other ways – for example, by fat transferring your own fat (lipofilling) or through an implant-free lifting operation. Existing scars, such as those in the crease under the breast, can usually be used for the procedure.
About the treatment
Patients who have had silicone implants inserted previously may find over time that they need to remove them – usually as a result of capsular contracture.
Typical areas of application
- In cases of capsular contracture, accompanied by symptoms or visible deformation
- Ruptured (torn) or leaking implants
- Desire for a change in breast shape or size
- When implants have displaced or rotated
- Ageing of implants (e.g. after 10 to 15 years)
- Visible wrinkling or irregularities (rippling)
- Pain or tightness in the chest area
When is it recommended?
- In cases of medically diagnosed capsular contracture (from Baker stage III–IV)
- In the event of proven implant rupture or defect
- For functional complaints or aesthetically disturbing changes
- In response to a medical examination as part of the recommended aftercare
- At the patient's request to optimise shape, size or material
- If rare complications such as BIA-ALCL are suspected (after evaluation)
"Every woman undergoing breast reconstruction deserves to have individualised and natural results – my goal is to fulfil this wish."
FAQs
What will sensation in my breast be like after implant removal?
After implant removal, the sensation in the breast may be temporarily altered. Temporary numbness, feelings of tightness or increased sensitivity often occur immediately after the operation. These changes usually subside within a few weeks to months. In most cases, sensation returns to normal over time, but slight differences in sensitivity – especially in the nipple area – may persist in rare cases.
What scars will I have?
The incision for implant removal is usually made in the crease under the breast. In certain cases, e.g. if a breast lift is performed at the same time, additional incisions may be necessary, for example to reposition the nipple. These then run, for example, vertically to the crease under the breast or around the areola ("scar-minimising technique"). The final scarring is individual and depends heavily on skin type and wound healing – however, the scars usually fade significantly over time.
Is the procedure covered by health insurance?
Implant removal may be necessary for both medical and aesthetic reasons. Whether the costs are covered by health insurance depends on the individual circumstances. If there is a medical necessity – for example, in the case of capsular contracture, implant rupture or symptoms such as pain and deformation – health insurance companies usually cover all or part of the costs. This applies in particular if the implants were used within a breast reconstruction procedure. In most cases, a medical justification and prior approval of costs are required.
However, if the procedure is undertaken for purely aesthetic reasons, such as the desire for a different size or shape without any medical symptoms, the costs are not usually covered by health insurance. We would be happy to advise you in a personal consultation regarding your individual situation and, if necessary, assist you in clarifying matters with your health insurance provider.
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