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La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre
9850 Genesee Ave Suite 130
La Jolla, CA 92037
Call: (858) 452-1981 Text: (858) 203-2944
Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Breast augmentation remains the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States—and the vast majority of our La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patients are so happy with their results that they cannot imagine not having their breast implants. However, sometimes breast implant removal, or explantation, is recommended for medical reasons and may warrant complete or partial removal of the breast implant capsule.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons are highly experienced in breast implant removal. And, just as they personalize breast augmentation to each patient’s needs, they customize breast implant capsulectomy to ensure a safe surgery and aesthetically pleasing result.
Capsulectomy is an advanced breast implant removal technique that involves removing the breast implant capsule, whether intact or in pieces. Our surgeons typically perform it to address capsular contracture (hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant), an implant rupture, or a capsule abnormality. If you have a confirmed or suspected breast implant-associated cancer, breast implant capsulectomy is usually medically necessary.
Our skilled breast surgeons extensively perform the following types of capsulectomy:
96.8% Patient Satisfaction
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Patients inquiring about en bloc capsulectomy are typically concerned about breast implant illness (BII) or have general fears about breast implant-related cancer. However, the Breast Surgery Collaborative Community (BSCC), an organization comprised of experts from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society, recently issued specific guidance on when this procedure is appropriate. It currently recommends that en bloc capsulectomy be performed only for patients with suspected or confirmed breast implant-associated cancer following a comprehensive medical evaluation. It concludes that “fear alone” does not warrant putting patients through such a costly and complex surgery.
Based on the current guidelines, you may be a candidate for en bloc capsulectomy if you have:
Despite ongoing research, it is not currently known whether breast implant removal with or without capsulectomy prevents the future risk of developing breast implant-related cancer. That’s why it’s essential for patients considering a capsulectomy to consult with our experienced plastic surgeons. During your personalized consultation, we will thoroughly explore your medical history and share the benefits and risks of capsulectomy based on your unique symptoms and background.
En bloc explantation requires at least an incision along the entire length of the inframammary fold. If the implants are very small, the incision could be shorter. If the breasts and/or implants are large, a vertical incision from the fold to the edge of the areola may be needed.
To perform en bloc capsulectomy, a plastic surgeon carefully separates the capsule from the breast tissue, keeping the breast implant inside.
Once the capsule is completely released from the breast tissue, the capsule and implant are removed together.
The resulting breast cavity is irrigated with saline, Betadine, and a triple antibiotic solution. A drain is inserted and the incisions are closed.
A breast lift may be advised to address any stretched or sagging skin and ensure a beautiful result. We will be sure to discuss this option with you before surgery and help you understand how a breast lift may help.
We aim to take the stress out of removing your old implants and scar tissue with our affordable payment plans. Your en bloc capsulectomy starts with only $1,200 down. Then, you pay only $175 monthly for 60 months with average credit. You’ll enjoy even lower monthly payments if you have above-average credit or can make a higher initial payment. It’s that simple!
The cost of your procedure can vary based on your specific needs, so please reference our pricing page for fee ranges and further details.
We also make applying for plastic surgery financing easier than ever. Handle it quickly online, or we’ll guide you through your options during your consultation. Let’s start your journey to getting healthier and looking and feeling your very best!
Recovery after explantation with capsulectomy is typically quicker than the initial breast augmentation recovery. Most patients return to office jobs within one week, and can resume exercise gradually after a couple of weeks. If you are having a breast lift at the same time, your recovery may be a little longer. Of course, your plastic surgeon and their nurse will go over the details of your surgery and expected recovery during your consultation.
Since 1988, more than 36,000 patients have had safe, successful procedures at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre
If you are considering having your breast implants removed, or you are interested in learning more about whether you’re a suitable candidate for a capsulectomy performed by our plastic surgeons, please call our office at (858) 452-1981 or request a consultation online.
Last reviewed by a La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre Editor on September 27th, 2024. Meet Our Medical Editors
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