Explant Surgery – Everything You Need to Know About Breast Implant Removal

About Explant Surgery – Removing Breast Implants

On this page, you’ll find clear and trustworthy information about explant surgery – what it is, how the procedure works, what to expect before, during, and after the operation, and what your options are following implant removal.

Are you considering having your breast implants removed? You’re not alone. An increasing number of women around the world are choosing to undergo explant surgery – a procedure to remove breast implants, often as a step toward better health due to symptoms linked to Breast implant illness.
According to a survey conducted in the Nordic BII support group, 3 out of 4 women reported an improvement in their symptoms after explant surgery. Some women experience immediate relief, while others – especially those with more severe or long-standing symptoms – may face a longer road to recovery.

Different Methods of Explant Surgery

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you believe are caused by your breast implants, you may be considering explant surgery. Today, there are several surgical techniques for implant removal, and many women specifically request that the surrounding capsules be removed as well. The body naturally forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant as a defense response to the foreign object. For many women who have done their research, it’s important that these capsules are not left behind.

The Body Does Not “Absorb” Capsules on Its Own

Some surgeons prefer to leave the capsules in place to make the surgery less extensive. You may hear claims like “the body will absorb the capsule” or “the capsule dissolves on its own.” But – this is simply not the case at all. Scientifically and medically, the body does not break down these capsules. Thats facts. And every surgeon knows that.

If a surgeon says otherwise during a consultation, and if honesty and transparency are important to you — as they should be — consider to book a consultation with another plastic surgeon.

What Happens If Capsules Are Left Inside the Body?

Once the implants are removed, the remaining capsules are like two hollow balloons. If they’re thin, you may not feel them physically – but they can still present risks. The empty capsule pockets can potentially hold or develop:

👉🏼 Chronic inflammation
👉🏼 Silicone or heavy metals
👉🏼 Biofilm
👉🏼 Fungal growth
👉🏼 Bacteria
👉🏼 BIA-ALCL or BIA-SCC

In other words, retained capsules may lead to late complications and could prevent full recovery. While research is still limited, many women report feeling better immediately after explant surgery, only to experience a decline in health months or years later – eventually discovering that their capsules were left in place. Many of these women chose to undergo a second surgery to remove the capsules, and often reported significant improvement afterward.

👉🏼 Learn more about the different explant techniques here.

Can You Get BIA-ALCL After Explant Surgery?

BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is a cancer that develops in the scar tissue (capsule) surrounding a breast implant. Unfortunately, there is currently no scientific evidence confirming whether removing the capsules during explant surgery offers long-term protection against developing BIA-ALCL in the future.

It’s important to know that when women are diagnosed with BIA-ALCL, the standard treatment is to surgically remove both the implant and the surrounding capsule — sometimes followed by additional therapy.

However, no guarantees can be made that removing both implant and capsule during explant will fully eliminate the risk of developing BIA-ALCL later. More research is needed across the board regarding breast implant complications — including BIA-ALCL, systemic symptoms (BII) and other potential long-term effects.

For many surgeons, removing the capsules without clear medical indications may be considered an unnecessarily aggressive procedure, primarily because there’s a lack of conclusive evidence supporting its benefits. Still, the leading explant surgeons believe that removing the capsule i crucial if a patient is experiencing BII symptoms.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the patient — and it’s a decision that should be made based on informed consent and careful consideration of available information.

Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Explant Surgery

Undergoing explant surgery — the removal of breast implants — is a major decision. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a surgeon with the right expertise and a respectful, informed approach to Breast implant illness.

Unfortunately, there are still surgeons who deny the existence of BII or question the need for procedures such as an en bloc capsulectomy or total intact capsulectomy. Some may dismiss your symptoms, minimize your concerns, or suggest simpler procedures that leave the capsule behind — even if you want both the implant and the capsule removed for the best chance at healing.

Don’t choose a surgeon who ignores your experience or gut feeling.

Some surgeons will try to convince patients that leaving the capsule in the body is harmless. But retained capsules may become a problem later on. In many cases, there are reasons why certain plastic surgeons avoid total intact capsulectomy: it’s a more advanced and complex procedure that requires general anesthesia, more time in surgery, refined surgical skills, and greater responsibility.

Swedish surgeon

6 Things to keep in mind before explant surgery

Demand Documentation

Reputable surgeons routinely examine and document your breast implants after surgery. This is usually done through photos clearly showing both the implants and the capsules — ideally both together and separately.

Even better is if you get to see the implants with the capsules intact yourself, and have the opportunity to photograph or film the surgeon removing the capsules. This way, you can confirm there is no leakage and see what the inside of your capsule looks like. Knowing this often brings peace of mind, helping you feel confident that the surgery was successful. Then you can calmly focus on beginning your healing journey.

If You Want to Keep Your Breast Implants After Surgery, They’re Yours

The implants are your property — you paid for them, and you have every right to keep them if you choose. For many women, it can be reassuring to see the implants with their own eyes or to keep them as a reminder of their journey. Several have reported that their implants had a very strong chemical odor.

Be aware that testing can be done on the capsules

It’s good to know that certain tests can be performed on the capsules after your explant surgery. This is something you should discuss with your surgeon ahead of your operation day, so that they can prepare a referral and have the necessary sampling materials available during surgery.

Be aware that some of these tests can be quite expensive. For example, the surgeon may send the capsules to a lab to check for signs of chronic inflammation or bacterial presence. Testing for BIA-ALCL can also be done on the capsules and/or any fluid found inside the capsule. If the surgeon finds anything concerning in the capsules, they will likely want to send them in for analysis.

Remember: You Are a Paying Patient Like Anyone Else

It’s not uncommon to feel like a “difficult” patient when you ask for specific things, express concerns, or bring up questions others may not. You might feel like you’re making demands no one else makes or searching for answers no one else seems to care about.

But – don’t forget that your surgeon is being paid to perform this surgery.

That means they are responsible for your care when you arrive at the clinic, during surgery, and afterwards. Your comfort and complete sense of safety should be the top priority. Every question or uncertainty should be addressed well before surgery day, and it’s essential that you communicate openly and honestly with your surgeon.

Find Support in Communities

Many women have been affected by BII. You are not alone, and there is a wealth of knowledge and support available. Under the BII Community, you’ll find links to various Facebook groups where you can connect with others from around the world who share similar experiences.

Prepare for Your Explant Surgery

There are several ways to prepare your body before explant surgery. One of the most important things you can do is to ensure you’re getting proper nutrition. Make sure to prioritize good food, rest, and regular physical activity in the weeks leading up to your surgery.

Your surgeon will also provide specific pre-op instructions. For example, you may be asked to avoid certain supplements and/or anti-inflammatory medications, as they can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Additionally, you will likely be advised to refrain from smoking, using nicotine products, and consuming alcohol for a certain period before your explant procedure.