At Appleby Plastic Surgery, we’re known across Canada for our ability to handle complex cases, including revision and explant surgery. Our surgeons will walk you through your choices, from simple removal or capsule excision to a lift or fat transfer for reshaping.
There are many reasons to remove breast implants. Whether your goals have changed, your implants are aging, or you’re experiencing systemic symptoms, we’ll guide you through your options with transparency, experience, and care. Dr. Coroneos has written the largest study to date on breast implant safety
(Explant Surgery)
—
to restore shape or fullness
Fat transfer
to address sagging after implant removal.
Breast lift (mastopexy)
capsule and implant removed together, when medically possible.
En bloc removal
removal of the scar tissue capsule.
Capsulectomy
removal of the implant only.
Explant
how it
works—
Your plan may involve:
Implant removal ranges from straightforward to highly complex. Your surgical plan will depend on the type and condition of your implants, the amount of scar tissue (capsule), your health concerns, and your desired breast shape after removal.
Surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on complexity.
Your surgeon and nurse will walk you through your personalized recovery plan.
what to
expect —
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Use of a compression bra or wrap for support.
Sensations of hollowness or tightness that improve with healing.
A return to light work within 7 to 10 days.
In general, here’s what most patients experience after explant surgery:
Procedure —
Breast implant Removal
By 3 to 6 months, swelling resolves and final shape stabilizes. Fat transfer results may continue to refine.
Full result
Resume light exercise. Swelling and scar sensitivity improve. Breasts begin to soften and settle.
4–6 weeks
Swelling, soreness, and tightness. Support bra worn full-time. Most resume desk work in 7 to 10 days.
First week
2 to 4 hours under general anesthesia. Implant removed, with or without capsule, plus lift or reshaping if needed.
Surgery
We’ll review your health, goals, implant history, and recommend the safest, most effective plan.
Consultation
what to expect
stage
why choose
appleby—
Our clinic was designed to make your experience easier—from streamlined consults to overnight care, and everything in between.
Team of top-tier surgeons
collaborating to craft your ideal outcome.
Technical mastery
to handle complex cases and deliver results that restore confidence.
OUR TEAM & PHILOSOPHY ➜
A final result that meets our high standards and achieves your goal.
Precision-focused results
to ensure your entire experience, from consult to recovery, is positive.
Seamless care
Not always. It depends on whether we’re removing the capsule or combining procedures. You’ll be informed during your consult.
06.
Yes. A few patients will replace implants, most don’t.
Can I get new implants later?
FAQs ABOUT
Implant Removal —
Not exactly. Your skin and breast tissue may have stretched. We often recommend a Breast Lift to reshape and support your breasts post-explant.
What’s a capsulectomy, and do I need one?
05.
04.
03.
02.
01.
There is an increasing proportion of women with breast implants experiencing a combination of symptoms, with the most common being fatigue, brain fog/cognitive difficulties, joint pain, muscle pain, skin rashes and anxiety. These symptoms have been collectively referred to as breast implant illness.
What is breast implant illness?
Will I need drains?
En bloc means the implant and capsule are removed together, intact. While ideal in many cases, it’s not always possible or necessary. We’ll explain the safest approach for your body.
What’s en bloc removal?
A capsulectomy removes the scar tissue capsule around the implant. It’s recommended if there’s hardening, pain, rupture, or concerns about implant-related illness. Your surgeon will help determine what’s medically appropriate.