Written by Dr Gerard Ee. Reviewed by Dr Shenthilkumar Naidu and A/Prof Vincent Yeow. Last medically reviewed 7 November 2026.
Breast implant removal takes out an implant that is causing a problem, or one you simply no longer want. At The Clifford Surgery it is done by plastic surgeons Dr Shenthilkumar Naidu and A/Prof Vincent Yeow as day surgery. The scar tissue around the implant, called the capsule, can be left, partly removed, or removed whole together with the implant in an en bloc capsulectomy. You can have the implants replaced, have a lift, or leave them out.
Removal, Replacement or a Lift
Day Surgery With a Plastic Surgeon
Why Women Have Breast Implants Removed
| Reason | What it means |
|---|---|
| Capsular contracture | The capsule tightens, making the breast hard, painful or misshapen |
| Rupture | A silicone implant has split. It may cause no symptoms and is often found on a scan |
| Older implants | Implants from many years ago with no record of the type, or a change in shape |
| A change of mind | You no longer want implants, or want a different size |
| Symptoms you link to the implants | Some women ask for removal because of symptoms they relate to their implants |
| BIA-ALCL | A rare lymphoma of the capsule, mostly linked to textured implants |
Breast implant removal key points
Implants can be removed, replaced or left out
The capsule can come out with the implant in one piece
- Implants can be removed, replaced or left out
- The capsule can be removed with the implant in one piece
- A lift or fat transfer can reshape the breast after removal
- Day surgery with a plastic surgeon
En Bloc Capsulectomy Explained
In an en bloc capsulectomy the implant and the whole capsule around it come out together, as one closed piece. The implant is never opened inside the body. This is the approach used for a ruptured silicone implant and for suspected BIA-ALCL, when the capsule is sent to the laboratory.
A total capsulectomy removes the whole capsule but not always in one piece. Not every removal needs either. Your surgeon explains which suits you after examining you and reviewing your scans.
Book an implant removal consultation
Call (65) 6532 2400 or WhatsApp (65) 8318 6332. You do not need a referral.
After Breast Implant Removal
You go home the same day, sometimes with a small drain for a day or two
Soreness settles over one to two weeks. Most women return to desk work within about a week
Without new implants, the breasts are smaller and the skin may look loose at first. Skin often tightens over the following months
If the skin stays loose, a breast lift or fat transfer can reshape the breast, at the same time or later
Bring any implant card or old operation notes to your consultation
Breast Implant Removal Questions
Can my implants be removed and replaced in one operation?
Yes. Old implants can be taken out and new Motiva implants placed in the same operation, often with the capsule treated at the same time.
Do I need an en bloc capsulectomy?
Not always. It is used for ruptured silicone implants and suspected BIA-ALCL. For a simple change of mind, the capsule may be left or partly removed. Your surgeon advises after examining you.
Will my breasts sag after implant removal?
It depends on your skin and how large the implants were. Some women look fine without further surgery. Others choose a lift or fat transfer.
How much does breast implant removal cost?
It depends on what is removed and whether you have new implants, a lift or fat transfer, so the fee is quoted at consultation.
References
- US Food and Drug Administration. Risks and complications of breast implants. fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants
- US Food and Drug Administration. Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/breast-implant-associated-anaplastic-large-cell-lymphoma-bia-alcl
Read about breast implant removal and revision and the complete breast augmentation guide on The Clifford Clinic site.
