Breast Implant Removal

In Washington D.C. &. Maryland

Breast Implant Removal is not about erasing the past; it’s about rediscovering the beauty and strength within you. If you’re considering Breast Implant Removal, you’ve come to the right place, where empowerment is the heart of our practice.

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  1. Gallery
  2. Candidates
  3. Preparation
  4. Techniques
  5. Recovery
  6. Cost

What is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast Implant Removal, also known as explantation, is a surgical procedure offered by Wilmina Landford, M.D., in Washington DC & Maryland that involves the complete removal of implants and potentially the surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy) or simply removing the implants while leaving the capsule in place (capsulotomy). The surgery allows women to restore their chest simply for maintenance of their implants, to embrace a natural look, as an adaptation to life changes, or to address health concerns. While breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, it is important to note that they are not permanent, and some women may need to consider Implant Exchange or Removal after approximately fifteen years or more.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?

Good candidates for Breast Implant Removal at Landford Plastic Surgery in Washington DC and Maryland include individuals who:

  • Wish to remove their breast implants for personal reasons or changes in lifestyle
  • Experience complications or dissatisfaction with their current breast implants, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or infection
  • Have concerns for the safety or longevity of current implants
  • Want to downsize or remove their implants after breast augmentation surgery
  • Desire to restore their natural breast appearance
  • Are experiencing discomfort or pain related to their implants have been diagnosed with BIA-ALCL or Breast Implant Illness

Candidates need to have a consultation with Dr. Wilmina Landford to assess their specific situation and determine the best course of action for breast implant removal.

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How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in Washington DC and Maryland?

The cost of Breast Implant Removal in Washington DC and Maryland can vary based on the specific procedure and individualized treatment plan. During your consultation, we will thoroughly evaluate your unique needs and goals to create a personalized approach. Our team will then provide you with detailed pricing information based on the specific factors involved in your Breast Implant Removal procedure.

What Should I Expect During a Consultation for Breast Implant Removal?

During a consultation for Breast Implant Removal at Landford Plastic Surgery, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation of your current breast implants, medical history, and aesthetic goals. We will discuss the various options available for implant removal, including the possibility of implant replacement or a Breast Lift. We will also address any concerns or questions you may have and provide you with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

How Do I Prepare for Breast Implant Removal?

To ensure a successful Breast Implant Removal procedure and maximize your results, it is important to follow these preparation tips:

  • Adhere to pre-operative instructions provided by Dr. Landford
  • Maintain proper hydration leading up to the surgery
  • Get sufficient rest to promote healing and recovery
  • Wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure
  • Note down any concerns or questions you may have to discuss during your consultation

What are the Benefits of Breast Implant Removal?

The advantages of Breast Implant Removal at our Washington, D.C., and Maryland locations include:

  • Restoring natural breast appearance
  • Relieving discomfort caused by implants
  • Improving overall breast symmetry
  • Resolving complications associated with implants
  • Enhancing body confidence and self-image

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant rupture/Leak
  • Implant size dissatisfaction
  • Pain/Discomfort
  • Infection
  • Change in lifestyle
  • Breast cancer diagnosis
  • Breast implant illness
  • Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Lymphoma
  • Personal choice

Breast Implant Illness

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a condition with a wide range of symptoms related to breast implants. While the exact cause is unfortunately unknown, it’s widely believed to be influenced by autoimmune or inflammatory responses. Some of the more common symptoms of BII include:

  • Anxiety
  • Breathing problems
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Depression
  • Dry mouth and dry eyes
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Hair loss
  • Headaches
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Rashes or other skin problems
  • Sleep disturbance

Breast Implant Illness can affect patients at any time after receiving any type of breast implant, including silicone gel-filled, saline-filled, smooth surface, textured surface, teardrop-shaped, or round-shaped, and can even occur regardless if your implant has stayed intact.

In most cases, if a patient is diagnosed with BII, they will need to have their implants surgically removed, which can either improve the conditions or completely eradicate them. If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or have any concerns, please contact Landford Plastic Surgery immediately.

BIA-ALCL

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is associated with breast implants. It is essential to note that BIA-ALCL is extremely rare and occurs mostly in individuals who have had textured surface breast implants, rather than smooth surface implants.

The majority of cases of BIA-ALCL have been reported in individuals who have received textured breast implants for breast augmentation or breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The specific reasons why some people may develop BIA-ALCL are not yet fully understood, and research is ongoing to better understand the risk factors and underlying mechanisms.

If you have breast implants, it is crucial to be aware of any unusual symptoms, such as persistent swelling, pain, or changes in breast shape. If you have any concerns, consult with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance and recommendations based on your situation.

Common symptoms of BIA-ALCL

  • Asymmetry
  • Breast enlargement
  • Hardening of the breast
  • Large fluid collection
  • Lump in the breast or armpit
  • Overlying skin rash
  • Pain

These symptoms normally won’t develop until after a year of receiving your implant, but will typically occur an average of 8 -10 years after implant placement.

What are the Steps of Breast Implant Removal?

During a Breast Implant Removal procedure in Washington DC or Maryland, several important steps are involved to ensure a successful outcome. First, anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. We will make incisions, typically around the original incision site or in the inframammary fold, to access the breast implants. With great care, the implants, along with any associated scar tissue or capsule, are removed. The incisions are then closed using sutures or surgical adhesive, and dressings or bandages are applied. Following the procedure, you will receive post-operative instructions for a smooth recovery, with regular follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor your progress.

Surgical Techniques for Breast Implant Removal

Breast Implant Removal can be performed using various surgical techniques including Bloc Capsulectomy, Total Capsulectomy, or Implant-only Removal.

Different surgical techniques for breast implant removal include:

En Bloc Capsulectomy

The implants and surrounding scar tissue (capsule) are removed together as one unit.

Total Capsulectomy

Both the implants and the surrounding capsule are removed, but they are not necessarily removed as one unit.

Implant-Only Removal with Capsulotomy

Only the breast implants are removed, while the surrounding capsule is left intact and readjusted.

Explantation with Breast Lift

In cases where the breasts have sagged or lost volume, the implants are removed, and a breast lift is performed to reshape and lift the breasts.

Explantation with Fat Grafting

The implants are removed, and the breasts are enhanced by transferring fat from other areas of the body to achieve the desired shape and volume.

Where are the Incisions and Scars for Breast Implant Removal?

The location of incisions and resulting scars for Breast Implant Removal will depend on various factors, including the specific surgical technique used by Dr. Landford and the patient’s individual circumstances. Typically, the incisions can be made in the existing breast augmentation incision sites or around the areola (nipple), so that the resulting scars are well concealed and minimized.

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tummytuck-recovery

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

The recovery period after Breast Implant Removal at Landford Plastic Surgery varies for each individual, but most patients in Washington DC and Maryland can expect some initial discomfort, swelling, and bruising. It is important to follow post-operative instructions provided by our team, including wearing a supportive bra, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments for optimal healing and recovery.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Wilmina Landford is a plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic face, breast, and body plastic surgery. She obtained her medical degree from Stony Brook University School of Medicine and completed an integrated plastic surgery residency at Johns Hopkins, which has equipped her with exceptional knowledge and skills. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Chinese (Mandarin), Dr. Landford effectively connects with a diverse patient population, ensuring individualized care and fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs throughout the entire treatment process. Her expertise, combined with her multilingual abilities, allows her patients to receive the highest level of care and communication during their transformative journey.

Schedule a Consultation

To schedule a consultation for Breast Implant Removal with Dr. Wilmina Landford, please contact our office nearest to you in either Washington, DC, or Maryland. Our friendly team will be delighted to assist you in setting up an appointment. Alternatively, you can also request a consultation through this website, and a dedicated staff member will promptly get in touch with you. We look forward to welcoming you and addressing your specific needs and goals in person.

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