In your consultation, the surgeon will assess your breast implants, overall breast shape, skin quality, and your goals for explantation. If you have symptoms suggestive of Breast Implant Illness (BII), you may be asked to undergo immunological blood tests to evaluate possible autoimmune activity. Imaging tests like MRI may also be requested to assess implant condition and the amount of  breast tissue, which helps determine whether procedures like a fat graft will be needed for a good aesthetic result.

If there is no sagging or need for reshaping, the original incision (such as under the breast fold) is typically reused. In cases where a lift is needed, larger incisions like vertical (lollipop), “L” shaped, or inverted-T (anchor) may be necessary to remove excess skin and reshape the breast. If a fat grafting is necessary, minimal additional incisions (2-3 mm) will be needed into the donor sites (abdomen, etc...)

After explantation, patients should wear a support bra and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Swelling, bruising, and changes in breast shape are normal in the beginning. Recovery includes follow-up visits to ensure healing and monitor the results.

Explantation is usually done under general anesthesia, ensuring you are fully asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery. The anesthesia procedure can be similar to a conventional breast augmentation or augmentation mastopexy and liposuction (if a fat grafting is necessary)

Fat grafting or breast lipofilling involves removing fat from another area of your body (like the abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into the breast to improve volume and contour. It’s especially useful when breast tissue is minimal and implants are removed, but has limitations in how much volume can be restored in a single session. Usually a 60-70% fat intake rate is expected if a proper technique is performed.

Many patients who experience systemic symptoms possibly related to Breast Implant Illness (BII)—such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or autoimmune flare-ups—report improvement or even resolution of these symptoms after implant removal. While scientific evidence on BII is still evolving and results can vary from person to person, many women feel a significant boost in their overall well-being, energy levels, and sense of health after explantation. It’s important to discuss expectations openly with your surgeon, as not all symptoms may be directly linked to the implants.