Breast implants aren’t lifetime devices. Over time, changes in your body, health, or lifestyle might lead you to consider breast implant removal. Some signs are unmistakable. Others are easy to dismiss, until they interfere with your quality of life.
Here are seven signs it might be time to talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon about explant surgery.
1. Pain or Discomfort That Won’t Go Away
If your breasts feel sore, tight, or achy—especially years after surgery—it’s not something to brush off. Pain may be caused by nerve compression, shifting implants, or scar tissue buildup. A consultation can help determine whether it’s time for breast implant explantation.
2. Your Breasts Look Uneven or Distorted
Rippling, asymmetry, or sagging may suggest a problem with your implants or the surrounding tissue. These cosmetic changes often stem from implant movement, tissue thinning, or capsular contracture. If you’re unhappy with your results, breast revision surgery can help restore balance and shape.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
3. You’ve Been Diagnosed with Capsular Contracture
This condition happens when scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens. It can cause pain, breast distortion, or a firm, unnatural feel. In moderate or severe cases, removing the implant—and possibly the capsule—is the most effective option. Many patients combine this with breast lift surgery to achieve a more youthful shape.
4. Fatigue, Brain Fog, or Other Unexplained Symptoms
Some women experience widespread symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, rashes, or memory issues. While the science is still catching up, these may be signs of Breast Implant Illness (BII). If you’re exploring this possibility, our page on Breast Implant Illness offers helpful insight.
Related: Preventing Breast Implant Illness
5. Evidence of Rupture or Leakage
If a saline implant leaks, your breast will likely deflate. Silicone implant ruptures can be harder to detect. You might notice subtle changes in shape or firmness, or no symptoms at all. MRI or ultrasound can confirm what’s going on. Ruptured implants should be removed or replaced through breast augmentation removal.
6. Your Lifestyle Has Changed
As your body or activities change, so might your goals. You may want smaller breasts for comfort, mobility, or personal preference. Some women choose to downsize while others remove their implants altogether. Options like a mini breast augmentation or breast augmentation with lift can help you transition without losing shape or confidence.
7. You’re Ready for a More Natural Look
Explant surgery doesn’t have to mean going back to square one. Some women opt for a fat transfer breast augmentation, which uses your own tissue to add subtle volume. Others skip volume altogether in favor of contouring through a lift. Dr. Papillion offers breast plastic surgery procedures that match your goals, whatever they may be.
Wondering If It’s Time to Remove Your Implants?
If you’re noticing changes in how your implants look or feel, or if you’re experiencing new health concerns, it may be time to consider a breast implant removal procedure.
Dr. Papillion is a trusted breast explant surgeon in Nashville with years of experience in helping women feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies. Schedule a consultation to get started.