Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal is the operation to take out implants placed during an earlier breast surgery. Some women want to live without implants. Others want the existing implants removed and replaced with new ones. Both decisions deserve more than a quick answer based on how old the implants are.

You might be concerned about pain, a breast that has become firm, or a possible rupture. Or there may be nothing wrong with the implants—you may simply prefer a different size or no longer want them. The right plan depends on the condition of the implants and breast tissue, as well as what you hope to see after surgery.

If you are coming to Istanbul from abroad, share the details of your first operation before you travel if you have them. An implant card, operation report or recent scan can help make the first discussion more useful. The final plan still requires an in-person assessment.

Why Do Women Have Breast Implants Removed?

For some women, a change in the breast prompts the decision. One breast may feel harder, look different or become painful. This can happen when the tissue capsule around an implant tightens, a condition called capsular contracture. A suspected implant rupture also needs assessment. Silicone implant rupture does not always cause a noticeable change.

Other women are reconsidering a choice they made years ago. They may want smaller breasts, feel that implants no longer suit them or prefer to go without implants altogether. Pregnancy, weight changes and ageing can also change the skin and breast tissue around an implant.

These are different reasons for surgery. Understanding yours is more useful than deciding in advance that every implant must simply be “taken out and replaced”.

Removal Without Replacement or New Implants?

If you no longer want implants, they can be removed without new implants being placed. What your breasts look like afterwards depends on your natural breast tissue, skin elasticity, the size of your current implants and changes since your first surgery. They may not return to exactly their pre-implant shape.

If you would like to keep implant volume, replacement may be an option. The existing implants are removed and new ones selected according to your current anatomy and preferences. You may want a smaller size, a different shape or to address a problem with an existing implant.

In either situation, changing the implant alone may not address loose skin or a lowered breast position. A breast lift can be discussed when reshaping is also a concern.

Do Implants Need to Be Removed After Ten Years?

No. Reaching ten years does not mean that every patient must have another operation. At the same time, breast implants are not lifetime devices, and no one can promise that an implant will remain problem-free indefinitely.

Follow-up is separate from surgery. You may need an examination or imaging to check an implant without needing it removed. Silicone implant rupture can be silent, so your surgeon may recommend ultrasound or MRI according to your implant history, symptoms and previous results.

If you still have your implant card, keep it for the consultation. Knowing the brand, model and size can be helpful even if you feel well and are considering removal mainly for personal reasons.

Breast Implant Removal Cost in Istanbul

The cost depends on the operation planned. Removing implants without replacement is different from removing them and placing new ones. Surgery may also involve treatment of the capsule or a breast lift. The hospital arrangements and, if you choose replacement, the new implants are part of the overall plan.

If you are travelling for treatment, ask what the quotation includes. Find out when your in-person assessment will take place, which postoperative visits are planned and whether the proposed surgery could change after examination. A cost estimate is most useful when it explains what will actually be done.

What Happens to the Capsule Around an Implant?

The body forms a layer of tissue around every breast implant. This capsule is normal. It becomes a concern when it tightens, causes discomfort or changes the breast shape.

The capsule does not have to be treated in exactly the same way for every patient. Its condition, the implant and the reason for removal all matter. If capsule surgery is recommended, your surgeon should explain what will be done and why. Removing an implant does not automatically mean that the entire capsule must be removed.

How Is Breast Implant Removal Planned?

The consultation begins with what is bothering you now. Do you want to be free of implants, or would you feel better with smaller ones? Has a breast become firm or painful? Are you worried about rupture? What change would make the operation worthwhile for you?

Dr. Leyla Arvas assesses the breasts, existing scars, skin, breast tissue and implant position. Imaging may be requested where appropriate. Your previous operation report and implant card are useful, particularly if your first surgery was performed outside Türkiye.

For someone who wants smaller implants or no implants, the amount of tissue and skin remaining after removal is especially important. If the breasts have also become lower or the skin has loosened, a lift may be considered. Information about implant types and the first augmentation operation is available on the breast implants page.

Which Option Fits Your Situation?

The table shows the questions that usually shape the consultation. It is a guide to the discussion, not a way to choose an operation without an examination.