Breast Implant Removal in San Diego, CA

Bodies and preferences change, and so can the decision to keep breast implants. Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery helps San Diego patients through implant removal with precision and care.

A Trusted Name in Complex Breast Surgery

Dr. Paul Chasan, founder of Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery in Del Mar, has spent more than 30 years earning a reputation as San Diego's "Fix-it" doctor for complex breast surgery. Patients trust him for straightforward guidance on a decision this personal. Schedule a private consultation with the Ranch & Coast team to discuss the options.

What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, takes out one or both breast implants, either permanently or as a step before placing new ones. Patients choose removal for many reasons, including a change in preference, implant rupture, or capsular contracture, a tightening of scar tissue around the implant. Depending on the condition of that tissue, Dr. Chasan may also recommend removing the capsule itself, a step known as capsulectomy.

Benefits of Breast Implant Removal

A lighter, more natural silhouette for patients who no longer want implants
Relief from capsular contracture, rippling, or implant shifting
Resolution of symptoms some patients associate with their implants
A way to address rupture before complications develop
The option to combine removal with a lift for a refreshed shape
A clean start for patients ready to move on from implants

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?

Good candidates include patients whose implants have ruptured, shifted, or developed capsular contracture, along with those who want their pre-augmentation profile back. Patients in good general health, with realistic expectations about how skin elasticity affects the final shape, tend to have the smoothest experience. During a consultation, Dr. Chasan reviews implant history, examines the breasts, and discusses whether removal alone or removal combined with a lift best fits the patient's goals.

Why Choose Ranch & Coast for Breast Implant Removal?

Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery operates a Quad A-certified surgical suite in the heart of Del Mar, stocked with more than 100 implant sizes and styles for whatever direction a case requires. Dr. Chasan is known throughout the region as the surgeon other doctors turn to for their toughest breast revisions. Every procedure includes board-certified anesthesiology and the option of a 23-hour overnight stay.

Your Consultation

A consultation at Ranch & Coast starts with a conversation about implant history, current concerns, and goals for the breasts after removal. Dr. Chasan performs a physical exam, reviews any imaging, and explains the difference between simple explant and capsulectomy so patients know exactly what their surgery will involve. Patients leave with a personalized surgical plan and a clear picture of what to expect on the day of treatment.

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost?

Cost depends on whether capsulectomy is needed, whether a lift is added, and the overall complexity of the case. Because every patient's anatomy and goals differ, Ranch & Coast provides personalized pricing during a private consultation rather than a general quote. Financing options are available for patients who prefer to spread the cost over time.

What to Expect During Breast Implant Removal

The Removal Procedure

Breast implant removal is performed under anesthesia, typically through the existing implant incision to limit new scarring. Dr. Chasan removes the implant and, when needed, addresses the surrounding capsule before closing the incision. Most procedures take one to two hours, depending on whether capsulectomy or a lift is added.

Capsulectomy Considerations

Not every patient needs the implant capsule removed. A joint consensus statement from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society states that full en bloc capsulectomy is generally necessary only when there is suspected or confirmed breast implant-associated cancer. Partial or total capsulectomy can address thickened or symptomatic tissue in other cases. Dr. Chasan determines the right approach based on each patient's exam and surgical history.

Adding a Breast Lift

Patients whose breasts lose fullness or sag after implant removal often benefit from a breast lift performed during the same surgery. Combining the two typically does not extend recovery time and helps achieve a natural, lifted shape in a single procedure.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Most patients take one to two weeks off work after breast implant removal, longer if capsulectomy or a lift is added. Swelling, tenderness, and bruising are normal in the first several days, and a compression garment typically supports healing tissue. Dr. Chasan and the Ranch & Coast nursing team monitor patients closely through early recovery. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are generally restricted for four to six weeks. Light daily activities can usually resume within a week, with a return to normal exercise once cleared at a follow-up visit.

Breast Implant Removal Results

Results become clear as swelling resolves over the following weeks, with the breasts settling into their new shape over several months. Patients who combine removal with a lift typically see a more contoured, lifted result, while those who choose removal alone often notice a softer, more natural profile. Results are long-lasting, though skin elasticity and natural aging continue to shape the breasts over time.

Complementary and Related Procedures

Breast Revision: Corrects complications or aesthetic concerns left by a previous breast surgery.
Breast Lift: Raises and reshapes breasts that have lost firmness or position.
Breast Reduction: Removes excess breast tissue for a lighter, more proportionate profile.
Breast Augmentation: Places new implants for patients who want a different size or style rather than removal.
Mommy Makeover: Combines breast and body procedures into a single comprehensive surgical plan.

FAQs

What are the risks of breast implant removal?

As with any surgery, risks can include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. Dr. Chasan reviews these individually during the consultation.

What is breast implant illness, and does removal help?

Breast implant illness describes a range of symptoms some patients associate with their implants. Many patients report improvement after removal, regardless of which capsulectomy technique is used.

Will removing my implants leave visible scars?

Removal typically uses the existing implant incision, so most patients do not have new or additional scarring beyond what already exists.

Is breast implant removal covered by insurance?

Coverage is uncommon for elective removal, though cases involving rupture or other complications may qualify. Ranch & Coast can review options during a consultation.

Can I choose to downsize instead of removing my implants completely?

Yes. Downsizing is an option for patients who want a smaller profile without full removal, and it can be discussed during a consultation.

How long can breast implants safely stay in before removal is recommended?

There is no set expiration date, but manufacturers note implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Patients are encouraged to monitor for changes and attend routine follow-up visits.

What if I want new implants after having mine removed?

New implants can be placed at the time of removal or during a future surgery. The choice of size, style, or material stays flexible whenever a patient is ready.

Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery has spent decades helping San Diego patients navigate complex breast decisions with skill and honesty. Patients ready to explore breast implant removal are invited to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Chasan.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Outcomes, risks, and suitability vary from patient to patient.