What Is Breast Implant Removal (Explant)?

Breast implant removal means surgically removing implants that were previously placed for breast augmentation. Over time, some patients decide they no longer want implants. For example, personal preference, lifestyle, aesthetic expectations, or implant-related changes can influence that decision.

Why Can Implants Contribute to Sagging Over Time?

Implants can add weight to the breast tissue over the years. In addition, gravity and decreased skin elasticity can affect breast position. Consequently, breast tissue may shift downward over the implant or together with the implant.

In particular, these factors can accelerate the process:

• Gravity
• Reduced skin elasticity
• The aging process
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Weight changes

For that reason, many patients ask, “Will my breasts sag more if I remove the implants?” The answer depends on the individual case, because tissue quality, degree of sagging, and remaining volume all matter.

What Is an Implant-Free Breast Lift with the Push-Up Lift Approach?

The Push-Up Lift approach aims to lift the breasts by using the patient’s own breast tissue rather than a new implant. In this approach, the surgeon reshapes the breast while trying to preserve natural anatomy as much as possible.

The main goals include:

• Reshaping breast tissue
• Creating a more compact and lifted breast form
• Preserving natural anatomy when possible

Moreover, the plan depends directly on tissue characteristics and the patient’s expectations. Therefore, surgeons tailor the evaluation to each individual.

Who May Be a Candidate for “Explant + Push-Up Lift”?

This combination may be considered in the following situations:

• Patients who want their implants removed and do not want a new implant
• Patients with sagging or shape changes after implants
• Patients whose expected remaining volume may meet their aesthetic goals
• Patients who prefer reshaping in the same session as implant removal

Note: The surgeon confirms eligibility based on physical examination, imaging when needed, tissue quality, and clinical assessment. Therefore, the final decision comes after a personalized evaluation.

Preoperative Assessment: Why Does the Capsule Matter?

The body naturally forms a tissue layer around the implant, called the capsule. The surgeon evaluates this area to plan safely and appropriately. In addition, the surgeon checks for any unusual findings related to the capsule.

During planning, the surgeon typically considers these questions:

• Will implant removal alone meet the goal?
• Does the capsule show any abnormal findings?
• Should the surgeon remove or preserve the capsule, and which approach fits best?

In short, this assessment supports a safer and more individualized surgical plan.

How Do Surgeons Plan Volume After Implant Removal?

The remaining breast volume after explant varies from person to person. Therefore, surgeons usually plan step by step before surgery:

1. They review the current breast form with implants
2. They estimate the likely remaining volume after implant removal
3. They discuss whether that volume can meet the patient’s goals

Some patients say, “I do not want my breasts to get smaller, but I also do not want a new implant.” In that situation, the surgeon aims to achieve the best possible shape using existing tissue. As a result, the patient can set expectations more clearly before surgery.

Additional Options When Needed: Reduction or Fat Grafting

Surgeons do not apply the same plan to every patient. However, they may consider additional steps in certain cases:

• If excess skin exists, the surgeon can remove it as part of the reshaping
• If the patient prefers a smaller breast size, the surgeon can adjust the plan accordingly
• If the surgeon expects a significant volume decrease and the patient is suitable, fat grafting may be considered for limited volume support. For example, the surgeon may use fat harvested from the abdominal area.

Ultimately, the surgeon selects these options based on anatomy and goals. Therefore, the final plan becomes clear after the clinical evaluation.

What Is the Recovery Like?

Recovery depends on the individual and the scope of the procedure. Still, patients often experience a recovery course similar to other implant-free breast lift approaches.

• Patients may need more rest during the first few days
• Return to daily activities depends on the details of the procedure
• In general, tissue recovery and settling progress over approximately 4–6 weeks

For that reason, follow your surgeon’s instructions for the most accurate timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

After breast implant removal (explant), surgeons may plan an implant-free breast lift with the Push-Up Lift approach in selected patients to reduce shape loss and create a more lifted position. Moreover, the most appropriate approach depends on a detailed assessment of implant status, capsule tissue, tissue quality, and the expected remaining volume after removal. In short, the surgeon aims to match the plan to the patient’s anatomy and goals for a balanced result.