Breast implant removal or replacement is a procedure considered for a variety of medical and personal reasons. While many implants remain intact and well-tolerated for years, they are not lifetime devices, and changes can occur over time that warrant evaluation.
One reason for removal or replacement is implant rupture. In saline implants, rupture is typically noticeable due to rapid deflation. Silicone implant rupture, however, may be “silent,” meaning it does not cause obvious symptoms but can still be detected through imaging such as MRI or ultrasound. When rupture is confirmed, removal or replacement is generally recommended to prevent potential complications.
Another consideration is Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare type of lymphoma linked primarily to textured implants. Although uncommon, symptoms such as persistent swelling, fluid accumulation, or a mass around the implant should be assessed promptly. Treatment often involves removal of the implant and surrounding capsule.
Some patients report a range of systemic symptoms—such as fatigue, joint pain, or cognitive difficulties—commonly referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII). While BII is not yet fully understood in medical literature, some individuals choose implant removal and report improvement in symptoms. Decisions in these cases are individualized and made after thorough consultation.
Capsular contracture is another common reason for revision surgery. This occurs when scar tissue around the implant tightens, potentially causing firmness, discomfort, or distortion in breast shape. Treatment may involve removal of the scar capsule and implant, with or without replacement.
A consultation with Dr Theile typically includes a detailed discussion of symptoms, imaging when appropriate, and a personalized surgical plan. Options may include implant removal alone, replacement with new implants, or additional procedures to optimize breast shape after removal.