Florence Mussat, M.D.
680 N Lake Shore Dr. #1030 Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 751-9000

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Tips for Breast Implant Removal Preparation & Recovery

Breast augmentation involving implants is still generally considered to be a safe procedure. However, health concerns and even lifestyle changes can cause people to reverse their decision later and to have their breast implants removed. 

Women who show symptoms of breast implant rupture may experience medical problems or misgivings associated with the implant. They need to be especially selective of the type of technique used as well as the surgeon for their breast implant removal.

It takes an advanced surgical skill set and training to perform breast implant removal (explant), and this is essential for women who choose to remove their implants entirely. Due to the complexity of this type of implant removal, Dr. Florence Mussat, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is well qualified to achieve an excellent outcome.

Techniques like breast implant removal procedure is the most complex and sophisticated breast implant removal option. Known as explantation or capsulectomy, this surgery may be the best way to protect the patient from further health complications.

Explantation refers to the removal of the implant as well as the scar tissue surrounding it. This scar tissue, known as the capsule, is tissue created when the body encounters a foreign object like a breast implant. All foreign medical devices, including pacemakers, stents and artificial joints draw some scar tissue. Full capsule removal through breast implant removal or Total Capsulectomy is often the preferred surgical technique. It reduces the possibility of rupturing the implant or disturbing the capsule.

Tips For a Great Recovery

Pre-Surgery Tips

  • Dr. Mussat will give you exact instructions for both preparation and recovery. 
  • Be prepared for an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, taking two to three hours.
  • Prepare for your procedure by following a healthy diet and stopping the consumption of alcohol.
  • Invest in some probiotics to compensate for the impact any prescribed antibiotics might have on your gut flora.
  • Prepare your digestive system: Eat non-constipating foods high in fluid content and fiber such as soups and cooked grains. Avoid constipating foods that include items such as dairy and red meat. 
  • Prepare your couch or bed ahead of time and have plenty of pillows, clean bedsheets, and blankets ready.
  • Gather the following items to have on hand before your procedure: Prescription medicine, water, easy-to-make foods, bags of frozen vegetables or ice packs, wet wipes and makeup removal pads, magazines, books, TV remote, laptop, tablet, electronic device chargers, and clean sets of clothes.
  • Recruit family members to take over meal preparation, diaper changes, laundry, and most parenting duties.
  • Get encouragement and emotional support from family and friends on your explant journey.

Post-Surgery Tips

  • While recovery plans are dependent on the individual patient, post-op care includes drinking plenty of water, stocking up on vitamins and supplements such as amino acids, protein powders, vitamin C, fish oil, and eating citrus, fresh vegetables, lean meats, and almonds. 
  • The recovery period for an office worker is typically seven to ten days, but longer for someone with a physically active job.
  • Allow about six weeks until you can resume strenuous activities like exercising and lifting.
  • Be kind to yourself: Don’t push the healing process.
  • While scars are inevitable with the surgery, there are ways to reduce the appearance of scars during and after surgery. Learn about which creams/ointments/other products are suitable for scar healing.
  • Look for signs confirming that the symptoms leading to your breast removal decision are disappearing. These could include no longer suffering from headaches, improved skin clarity and tone, diminishing nausea, and even fewer allergies.

Next Steps

Breast implant removal may be your most logical choice. The results would be not only improved health but also aesthetically pleasing results. 

No matter what reason you decide to consider implant removal, Dr. Florence Mussat, a Board-Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon assisted by her team, can help. Experienced in working with women of all body types and ages, she offers an extensive range of implant removal, reconstruction, and revision surgery options. 

Dr. Massat is an expert in providing superb final results through breast implant removal, breast augmentation, or liposuction. Regardless of your breast augmentation options, feel free to contact us to schedule a consultation at our Chicago, IL, office, or give us a call at (312) 751-9000.