En Bloc Breast Implant Removal Bellevue & Kirkland

The newest generations of silicone breast implants come with a lifetime warranty. While complications from breast implants are becoming less common, there are several reasons why a patient may choose to have their breast implants removed. Many patients are beginning to prefer the en bloc capsulectomy method for their explant surgery. Dr. Ludwig Allegra at Northwest Face & Body regularly performs the en bloc technique for breast implant removal. Northwest Face & Body offers the best en bloc breast implant removal Bellevue and Kirkland provides.

Overview: Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that removes breast implants. In some cases, the implants are replaced with new ones. However, sometimes, a patient simply wants to remove their breast implants for good. Dr. Allegra usually tries to utilize the same incision used for the original breast augmentation surgery. Though, this is not always possible. A breast implant removal almost always uses an inframammary fold incision.

The term for the surgery that removes breast implants is capsulectomy because it usually removes scar tissue along with the implant. An en bloc removal involves taking out the implant and scar tissue in one piece. Traditionally, this method was used in the case of a known implant rupture of a silicone implant.

Though, many women are choosing the en bloc technique when getting their breast implants removed to prevent leaving any trace of the implant behind. The surgery is much more difficult and technical than a basic capsulectomy. Thus, this makes choosing your plastic surgeon vital to getting the best results.

Causes & Reasons

Much like the decision to get breast implants, the choice to have them removed is deeply personal. Every patient will have their own reasoning. However, there are some cases where the procedure is recommended or necessary. Some of the causes and reasons that women have their breast implants removed include:

• Capsular contracture
• Rupture
• Breast implant illness
• Want to change the size/shape/type of implant
• Desire to upgrade to a newer generation of implant
• Breast implants no longer fit their lifestyle
• Injury or trauma to the area compromised cosmetic result
• The patient simply does not want their implants anymore
• Unrelated medical problems that require removal

Regardless of the reasons, Dr. Allegra will work with you to create a surgical plan for removing your breast implants. He will discuss all of the possible surgical methods and the one right for you that makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Dr. Allegra may also employ Vectra 3D imaging to help you visualize your results once he removes the implants.

Benefits

The en bloc capsulectomy technique offers patient numerous benefits. Though, it is important to understand and know all the possible methods, their benefits, and their risks. Some of the possible benefits of en bloc implant removal include:

• Cessation or improvement of symptoms of rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness
• Restore breast to previous size and contours (not always possible in certain situations)
• Breast tissue tends to settle well following the en bloc technique
• Correction of saggy breasts if combined with a breast lift
• Possible to use same incision as breast augmentation
• Removal of scar tissue capsule surrounding the breast implant
• May reduce the risk of infection/contamination of the breast tissue or rupturing of the implant upon removal
• Improve quality of life and make exercise easier
• Correct rupture or rippling
• Breasts may look more youthful
• Minimal post-operative pain and recovery
• Performed by an experienced breast surgeon

Types Of Breast Implant Explant

There are three main techniques that plastic surgeons employ to remove breast implants. Dr. Allegra is experienced in all three and can discuss which one is right for you. En bloc breast implant removal is among the most popular technique today.

Partial Capsulectomy

A partial capsulectomy earns its name because only part of the scar tissue is removed. Generally, Dr. Allegra will remove the breast implant and some scar tissue as necessary. This leaves scar tissue from breast augmentation. This approach is most popular when placing new implants because new scar tissue is going to form anyway. Therefore, fully removing the scar tissue would be redundant.

In patients without major symptoms of rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness, a partial capsulectomy is perfectly appropriate. Symptomatic patients will likely better benefit from one of the other two capsulectomy options.

Full Capsulectomy

A full capsulectomy removes the breast implant and the entirety (or as much is safe) of the scar tissue. However, unlike an en bloc procedure, Dr. Allegra will remove the scar tissue in pieces. Some of it may come out with the implant and then he will remove more scar tissue as needed.

This is also a common technique and is effective for most patients. If a large rupture or leak occurs or the patient has breast implant illness, Dr. Allegra may recommend the en bloc capsulectomy technique for peace of mind and safety.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

In French, “en bloc” means “as a whole.” Therefore, this technique consists of removing the breast implant and the scar tissue surrounding it as a whole entity. This method is preferred when there is a breast implant rupture or leak. Many patients experiencing breast implant illness prefer this method for reassurance that no residual elements of their implants remain.

Dr. Allegra is happy to accommodate an en bloc breast implant removal as long as the patient understands that it involves a larger incision and that in some cases it is not possible to safely remove the scar tissue in one piece. While most of the time, there are no safety concerns when removing the scar tissue, sometimes it can adhere to important anatomical structures. This may require more careful removal or cauterization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Casulectomy Necessary?

Unless a patient is experiencing problems with their breast implants or has another personal reason, there is no reason for a capsulectomy surgery. As far as removing the scar tissue, it is not technically necessary in all cases. However, it is preferred because it helps return the breasts as close as possible to their original state. Removing scar tissue can also help lift the breasts along with a breast lift.

Will My Breasts Fluff After Explant?

Yes, for the first few months of your recovery, you may lack upper projection of the breasts. They may also take on a slightly concave look above the nipple. This is perfectly normal and as your body heals and tissues settle, the breasts should return to a natural look. This is referred to as “fluffing” because the breasts appear to fill out.

What Is Recovery After An En Bloc Capsulectomy Like?

The recovery associated with an en bloc breast implant removal is exceptionally similar to the original breast augmentation recovery. Dr. Allegra will provide personalized instructions based on your needs and specific procedure. Some of the common directions include:

• Limit physical activity until cleared by Dr. Allegra (walking as needed is generally okay as long as it is not too strenuous
• Take time off work
• Avoid lifting your arms
• Attend post-operative appointments
• Do not touch the incision area
• Prevent the incisions from sun exposure and coming into contact with water
• Follow scar treatment instructions
• Undergo ultrasound massages if recommended
• Take prescribed medications
• Stay hydrated and eat well

Will I Need A Breast Lift?

A breast lift surgery and breast implant removal complement each other well and are often combined. Breast sagging is normal and occurs due to several factors such as age, genetics, and pregnancy. When many patients seek an en bloc, they are also experiencing breast sagging. This can further improve results.

Why Choose Dr. Ludwig Allegra?

Dr. Ludwig Allegra is an experienced plastic surgeon who has over thirty years of experience in the field. He routinely adopts new techniques and technology such as the Vectra 3D imaging system that helps patients visualize and better understand the probable results of any breast surgery.

As one of the founders of Northwest Face & Body, Dr. Allegra has served the Pacific Northwest for years. Along with breast surgery, he also regularly performs body contouring such as tummy tuck and liposuction. Dr. Allegra is a skilled injector of Botox and dermal fillers. His well roundness as a provider allows him to present all possible options to his patients to help them make an informed decision.

The Best En Bloc Breast Implant Removal At Northwest Face & Body

Choosing the right breast surgeon takes time and research. At Northwest Face & Body, our plastic surgeons have decades of experience performing all types of breast surgeries. With refined skills in cosmetic breast surgery, our Bellevue plastic surgeons will answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with a comprehensive surgical plan for en bloc capsulectomy.

Northwest Face & Body is a premier plastic surgery practice located in Kirkland, WA. Easily accessible from I-405 and minutes away from Bellevue, Northwest Face & Body provides the Eastside with the best breast implant removal surgery. Dr. Ludwig Allegra is an accomplished surgeon who has practiced in the Greater Seattle and Bellevue areas since 1983.

To schedule a consultation at Northwest Face & Body, call us at 425-576-1700. You can also reach us online via our contact page, Price Simulator™, or contact form.