explantation
Surgical removal of breast implants, either with or without replacement, often due to complications or patient preference.
Full Definition
Explantation refers to the surgical removal of breast implants from patients who previously underwent breast augmentation. This procedure may be performed for various reasons including implant rupture, capsular contracture, breast implant illness concerns, lifestyle changes, or patient desire to return to natural breast size. The procedure can be performed with en bloc capsulectomy (removing the implant with its surrounding capsule intact) or total capsulectomy. Some patients opt for simultaneous replacement with new implants, while others choose explantation without replacement. The surgery requires careful consideration of breast shape restoration and may involve additional procedures such as mastopexy to achieve optimal aesthetic results.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether performed with or without capsulectomy and whether replacement implants are planned.
In Context
- "The patient elected for explantation without replacement due to concerns about breast implant illness." — consultation notes
- "Explantation rates have increased significantly over the past five years, with BII concerns being the most common indication." — plastic surgery journal