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Breast Explantation

Breast Implant Removal

Mr Nakul Patel offers a personalised and considerate approach to breast implant removal in Leicester, Nottingham, and across the East Midlands, carefully assessing your anatomy, skin quality, and goals to achieve the most natural and balanced outcome possible.

Book a Consultation View Procedure
1.5 to 2.5 Hours
Procedure Time
1 Night
Hospital Stay
1 to 2 Weeks
Time Off Work
1 to 2 Weeks
Driving
6 Weeks
Support Bra
3 to 6 Weeks
Exercise
Overview

Softer, more natural breasts, entirely on your own terms

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure to remove existing breast implants without replacement. Women choose this for many reasons: personal preference, changes in lifestyle, concerns about implant longevity, capsular contracture, implant rupture, or symptoms they feel may be related to their implants. Whatever your reason, the decision to remove your implants is a valid and personal one, and there is no judgement in choosing to do so.

Mr Nakul Patel during a patient consultation
The Procedure

What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Whatever your reason, the decision to remove your implants is a valid and personal one, and there is no judgement in choosing to do so.

Breast implant removal is an operation to take out breast implants that were previously inserted, whether for cosmetic augmentation or as part of reconstruction. The procedure is tailored to your individual situation and may involve one or more of the following:

  • Implant removal alone: the implants are removed through existing scars, leaving the capsule in place if it is thin, soft, and not causing any problems.
  • Implant removal with capsulectomy: the layer of scar tissue (capsule) that surrounds every implant is removed either partially or completely at the same time. This is recommended when the capsule is thick, calcified, contracted, or when there has been an implant rupture.
  • Implant removal with breast reshaping: in patients with significant skin laxity or droop following removal, a breast lift (mastopexy) or fat transfer may be combined with the procedure to improve overall shape and position.

The capsule is the layer of fibrous scar tissue that naturally forms around any implant as part of the body's normal response. In many women this remains thin and soft throughout their lives, but in others it can thicken, harden, or contract over time, a condition known as capsular contracture, causing firmness, discomfort, or distortion of the breast shape.

After implant removal, your breasts will naturally appear smaller and may feel softer. The degree of skin laxity, droop, or change in shape will depend on several factors including the size and type of your original implants, how long they have been in place, your skin quality, and your age. Mr Patel will discuss with you honestly what to expect in terms of breast appearance after removal, and whether any additional procedures may be beneficial.

★★★★★
“Five days post-op I was experiencing post-op blues and Mr Patel called me… reassured me that what I was feeling was completely normal.”
Verified Patient · Tummy Tuck & Breast Surgery
Benefits

What Implant Removal Can Achieve

For appropriately selected patients, implant removal can offer a range of physical, aesthetic and psychological benefits.

Relief from Discomfort, Tightness or Heaviness

Many patients with capsular contracture or symptomatic implants find significant relief after removal.

Removal of Ruptured or Ageing Implants

Addresses concerns about implant integrity and reduces ongoing anxiety about implant-related health issues.

Elimination of Implant-Related Complications

Resolves firmness, distortion, asymmetry, or other problems caused by the implant or capsule.

Lighter, More Comfortable Breasts

Some women find that removing large implants significantly improves comfort and posture.

Mr Patel will guide you through realistic expectations, particularly regarding breast shape and volume after removal, helping you decide whether surgery is the right option for you.

Suitability

Are You Suitable for Breast Implant Removal?

Careful assessment is essential to ensure the right approach is chosen and that your expectations are realistic. Mr Patel will take time to understand your reasons, assess your breast anatomy, and discuss what can and cannot be achieved through removal alone.

  • No longer wish to have breast implants, for any personal or medical reason
  • Are experiencing discomfort, firmness, distortion, or asymmetry related to your implants
  • Have concerns about the integrity, age, or safety of your implants
  • Prefer a natural breast appearance and are prepared for a change in breast size and shape
  • Are in good general health and at a stable weight
  • Do not smoke, or are willing and able to stop smoking and avoid nicotine before and after surgery
  • You are actively smoking or using nicotine products and are not yet ready to stop
  • Medical conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease are not yet optimally controlled
  • You have unrealistic expectations about breast appearance after removal
  • You are planning significant weight changes, which may alter the result

Continued observation: if your implants are not causing symptoms, ongoing monitoring may be a reasonable choice.

Implant replacement: rather than removal, you may prefer to replace ageing or problematic implants with new ones.

Non-surgical support: well-fitted bras and supportive garments can help manage mild discomfort while you consider your options.

Techniques

Types of Breast Implant Removal

The surgical approach to implant removal is tailored to your anatomy, the condition of your implants and capsule, and your overall goals. Mr Patel will explain the most appropriate option for you during your consultation.

Technique Best For Key Features Scars Outcome Goals
Removal Only Thin capsule, good skin Implant removed only; capsule left in place Existing scars reused Natural volume reduction
Removal + Capsulectomy Capsular contracture, rupture or thick capsule Capsule partially or fully removed; more complex Existing scars reused Improved softness and shape
Removal + Breast Lift Significant skin laxity or droop Lift added to improve position and contour Additional lift scars Improved breast position
Removal + Fat Transfer Volume loss concerns; good donor sites Fat grafted to restore modest volume and contour Existing scars + small liposuction scars Subtle volume restoration

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★★★★★
“I was listened to and given clear choices. Mr Patel, his team… ensured that my operation and recovery were carried out and managed to the highest standard.”
Patient, Stacked DIEP Flap
Your Journey

From First Consultation to Recovery

Sixteen steps, four phases, one continuous path: click any step to read Mr Patel's full guidance.

Phase 1 of 4

Consultation

1
Key Milestone

First Consultation

The first consultation is an important opportunity for Mr Patel to understand your reasons for wanting implant removal, review your implant history, and carefully assess your breast anatomy and skin quality. He will ask about your original surgery, including the type, size and position of your implants, as well as any symptoms or concerns you have developed since then.

A clinical examination is carried out, with measurements and photographs taken as part of the planning process. Mr Patel will discuss what the breasts are likely to look like after removal, whether a capsulectomy is likely to be needed, and whether any additional procedures such as a lift or fat transfer might be beneficial in your case. You are encouraged to ask questions and to take your time in reaching a decision.

Patient Consultation

Cooling-Off Period

Time built in after your first visit to give you adequate time to reflect and make a considered decision.

Following your first consultation, a cooling-off period is built into Mr Patel's practice to give you adequate time to reflect, ask further questions if needed, and make a considered decision. The decision to remove implants is a significant one, and Mr Patel believes it should never be rushed.

Second Consultation

Confirming your decision and finalising the surgical plan, including whether a capsulectomy, lift or fat transfer will be included.

A second consultation allows you to revisit the proposed plan in detail, confirm your decision, and ensure that all questions have been answered. The surgical plan will be finalised, including whether a capsulectomy, breast lift, or fat transfer will be incorporated. Recovery expectations, risks and your aftercare pathway will all be reviewed before you proceed.

Phase 2 of 4

Preparing for Surgery

Medicines & Supplements

Blood-thinning medicines and certain supplements may need to be paused before surgery.

  • Provide a complete list of all prescribed medications, over-the-counter treatments, herbal products, and supplements.
  • Blood-thinning medicines and certain painkillers may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery.
  • Some supplements, including fish oils and high-dose vitamin E, can affect clotting and may be stopped 1-2 weeks before surgery.

Smoking & Nicotine

Stopping all nicotine use at least 4-6 weeks before surgery meaningfully lowers your risk of wound complications.

Smoking and nicotine significantly increase the risk of wound complications, infection and delayed healing. Mr Patel strongly advises stopping all nicotine use at least 4-6 weeks before surgery and continuing to avoid it throughout recovery. This applies to cigarettes, vaping and nicotine replacement products.

Weight & BMI

A stable, healthy weight helps reduce anaesthetic risk and leads to more predictable results.

A stable, healthy weight helps reduce anaesthetic risk, wound complications, and blood clots, and also leads to more predictable results. If your weight is significantly above the recommended range, Mr Patel may recommend optimisation before surgery.

General Preparation

Balanced meals, good hydration, gentle activity and support arranged at home: the small things that add up beforehand.

  • Maintain a balanced diet, good hydration and gentle regular activity in the weeks before surgery.
  • Arrange practical support at home for the first 1-2 weeks, especially if you have young children or a physically demanding routine.
  • Prepare comfortable, loose front-opening clothing for after surgery.
  • If you develop a new illness close to your surgery date, contact the team, as it may be safer to postpone.
Phase 3 of 4

Hospital Journey

Admission

Meeting the nursing team, reconfirming consent with Mr Patel, surgical markings, and a briefing from your anaesthetist.

On arrival at the hospital, you will be welcomed by the nursing team and shown to your room. Mr Patel will visit you to review the plan, reconfirm your consent, and perform any surgical markings. You will also meet your anaesthetist, who will review your medical history and discuss the anaesthetic plan.

Going to Theatre

You're escorted to theatre and given a general anaesthetic, so you'll be fully asleep and comfortable throughout.

When it is time for your procedure, you will be escorted to the operating theatre. Breast implant removal is performed under general anaesthetic in most cases, meaning you will be asleep and comfortable throughout.

10
Key Milestone

The Operation

The operation follows a carefully planned sequence. Typically, this includes accessing the implants through existing scars where possible, carefully assessing and addressing the capsule, removing the implants, reshaping the breast tissue where required, and closing the wounds in layers with dissolvable sutures. Dressings and a supportive bra are applied before you leave theatre. If a breast lift or fat transfer is being performed at the same time, these will be incorporated into the procedure.

Operating Theatre

Recovery & Discharge

Monitored until comfortable, then home the same day or after one night with clear aftercare instructions.

After surgery, you will wake in the recovery area and be monitored until comfortable, before returning to the ward. Your breasts will feel swollen, tender and changed in shape. You will be given appropriate pain relief, and before discharge you will receive written aftercare instructions, advice on your bra and dressings, medication, and clear contact details for any urgent concerns. Most patients go home the same day or after one night in hospital.

Phase 4 of 4

Recovery After Breast Implant Removal

Recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery, whether a capsulectomy, breast lift, or fat transfer was included, and your general health. Mr Patel will guide you through each stage with a personalised aftercare plan.

12
Key Milestone

Week 1: Early Recovery

  • Expect swelling, bruising and discomfort, particularly across the chest and in the breast area.
  • Wear a soft, supportive bra day and night as advised.
  • Gentle walking from the first day or two is encouraged to reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • You will usually have a wound check with the team around 7-10 days after surgery.

Weeks 2-3: Regaining Comfort

Pain and bruising begin to improve, and many patients feel able to return to light or desk-based work.

  • Pain and bruising begin to improve, and many patients feel able to return to light or desk-based work.
  • Continue wearing the support bra and avoid strenuous upper-body activity.
  • Driving may be possible once you are comfortable, mobile and can control a vehicle safely.

3-6 Weeks: Returning to Normal Activities

Most patients resume normal day-to-day activities, with gradual reintroduction of exercise.

  • Most patients resume normal day-to-day activities, with gradual reintroduction of exercise.
  • Lower-body activity can typically resume earlier than upper-body activity.

3-6 Months: Settling Phase

Breast shape continues to evolve as swelling fully settles and the skin gradually retracts and softens.

  • Breast shape continues to evolve as swelling fully settles and the skin gradually retracts and softens.
  • The final breast shape after implant removal may not be fully apparent until this point.
16
Key Milestone

12-18 Months: Final Outcome

  • The final breast shape and scar appearance stabilise over time, though natural ageing and weight changes can continue to influence appearance.
Patient Testimonial
★★★★★
“I have always found Mr Patel to be highly professional… charming manner which quickly puts you at ease.”
Anthony S.
Scar Care

Mr Patel's Approach to Scar Optimisation

Mr Patel uses meticulous surgical technique and closure methods to optimise scar quality from the outset. Where possible, existing scars are used to avoid creating additional marks on the skin.

During Surgery

Where possible, existing scars are used to avoid creating additional marks on the skin, with careful, meticulous closure technique.

Early Healing

Dressings and Micropore tape are typically used in the early stages to support healing and reduce tension on the scar.

Longer-Term Care

Gentle scar massage, moisturising and silicone-based gels or tape may be recommended, alongside consistent sun protection to reduce the risk of scars darkening. Scar healing varies between individuals.

Informed Consent

Risks & Complications

Breast implant removal is a commonly performed and generally safe procedure, but as with all surgery there are potential risks and complications: expand each section below to read more.

  • Pain, bruising & swelling: normal in the first 1-2 weeks
  • Change in breast size and shape: the breasts will be smaller and may feel softer
  • Temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation
  • Delayed wound healing or infection, which may require antibiotics or further treatment
  • Bleeding or haematoma (a collection of blood), sometimes requiring return to theatre
  • Seroma (a collection of fluid), which may require draining
  • Contour irregularity, asymmetry, or skin laxity
  • Poor scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scars
  • Need for revision surgery or further procedures
  • Dissatisfaction with the final breast shape or cosmetic outcome
  • Pneumothorax (very rare, most relevant when performing total capsulectomy close to the chest wall)
  • Chronic pain
  • Blood clots in the legs or lungs (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
  • Anaesthetic complications

Mr Patel takes a careful and individualised approach to minimising risk, including thorough assessment, meticulous surgical technique, and structured postoperative follow-up care.

Explore Further

You May Also Be Interested In

Breast Implant Replacement

Exchanges existing implants for a refreshed size, shape or feel.

Learn More →

Breast Implant Removal and Uplift

Combines implant removal with a lift for a natural, supported shape.

Learn More →

Breast Uplift

Lifts and reshapes the breast, ideal if droop or skin laxity is also present.

Learn More →

Breast Augmentation

Adds fullness and volume to the breasts using implants or your own fat.

Learn More →
Questions

Frequently Asked

After explant surgery, the breasts will naturally appear smaller and may feel softer. They will initially appear deflated, and after two weeks will partially recover some volume. The degree of change depends on the size of your original implants, how long they have been in place, your skin quality, and your age. Mr Patel will discuss realistic expectations with you honestly during your consultation.

Many patients benefit from mastopexy if implants have stretched the breast skin or caused sagging. Whether a lift is appropriate depends on your individual anatomy, skin quality, and goals. Mr Patel will advise you on whether combining procedures is likely to improve your outcome.

Not necessarily, but implants are not lifetime devices and should be monitored regularly. If your implants are not causing any problems, routine removal is not always required. However, any concerns about implant integrity, rupture, or symptoms should be assessed promptly.

Yes. Some patients choose implant exchange rather than permanent explantation. This is a separate discussion Mr Patel is happy to have if you are undecided about whether to proceed with full removal or replacement.

Not always. Capsulectomy is where the scar tissue around the implant is removed. If the capsule is thin, soft, and not causing any problems, it can safely be left in place. Where the capsule is thick, contracted, or where there has been a rupture, Mr Patel will recommend full or partial removal at the same time.

Some common reasons for explant surgery include concerns about breast implant-associated health issues such as Breast Implant Illness (BII) or Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). If you are experiencing symptoms you feel may be related to your implants, Mr Patel will take your concerns seriously and discuss your options without judgement.

There are no non-surgical alternatives to removing breast implants. However, if you are considering removal due to volume concerns rather than complications, fat transfer to the breast may be worth discussing as a way to restore some natural volume at the time of removal.

Breast implant removal surgery will carry risks just like any surgical procedure, including infection, seromas, excessive bleeding, or reaction to the anaesthetic. Mr Patel will discuss all relevant risks in detail during your consultation and ensure you have sufficient time to consider your decision before proceeding.

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Your Journey...

Book a private consultation with Mr Nakul Patel to discuss your goals and explore your options in a warm, confidential setting.

Book a Consultation
Call 07846 717919
Email pa@nakulpatel.com