As more people reassess their implants for comfort or health reasons, increasingly they are considering breast implant removal.
In doing so, BIANCA CLINIC in Tokyo believes it is important that there is a clear understanding of breast implant removal side effects.
That is why at our Tokyo-based aesthetic clinic, residents and visitors will receive clear, bilingual guidance recommended by plastic surgery best practices.
This guide goes on to explain in practical terms what breast implant removal involves, who may benefit, the main advantages, and how to minimize breast implant removal side effects.
What is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal (explant) is a plastic surgery procedure that removes saline or silicone breast implants, either alone or with part or all of the surrounding capsule.
It may also be possible to remove the implant and the capsule as one unit (“en bloc”).
These procedures are usually performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation.
At the same time, a breast lift (mastopexy) or fat grafting to produce a more natural appearance of the breast, may be performed.
Potential benefits of breast implant removal include relief from breast tightness or discomfort, easier movement when performing sports, a softer and more natural breast contour, and for those with symptoms, an improvement or resolution of any that are associated with the implant.
Knowing likely breast implant removal side effects allows for clear expectations and smoother recovery.
Candidates for Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is indicated for those with implant rupture, capsular contracture, implant rippling, or aesthetic changes over time, as well as for those who simply prefer a smaller, lighter, more natural feel.
For textured devices, a rare complication is Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) which is linked to the implant surface.
The plastic surgery options and risks will be discussed with you by our experienced plastic surgery team as well as a clear indication of breast implant removal side effects.
What are the Main Breast Implant Removal Side Effects?
Peer-reviewed reports indicate that many patients experience comfort or symptom relief after an explant, especially when the therapeutic goals are realistic.
Most return to desk work in 5–10 days with swelling and firmness that may take several weeks to settle.
Temporary changes in nipple sensation are common and often improve within 3–6 months.
Careful planning and before and after photography help align goals with your anatomy.
Breast implant removal side effects – short term
In the short-term, it is common to experience the following breast implant removal side effects: swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness, and temporary changes in nipple or skin sensation.
Mild fatigue and sleep discomfort may occur when wearing a supportive bra.
With less common breast implant removal side effects being scar infections, fluid accumulation (seroma) or bleeding from the wound may occur.
Thickened scars (keloids) are more likely to occur in certain skin types.
After volume loss, there may be some asymmetry or irregularities in the breast contours.
As a final note, separate to breast implant removal side effects, some patients experience adverse reactions to the anesthesia as opposed to the procedure itself.
Breast implant removal side effects -long term
In the longer term, there may be loss of upper-pole breast fullness for some patients who choose a breast lift or fat grafting.
In a minority of patients there is persistent numbness or heightened sensitivity.
Whilst many patients report improved energy or comfort, others notice little breast implant removal side effects.
That said, your surgeon’s technique, sterile protocols, and your own aftercare strongly influence breast implant removal side effects and overall results.
Comparing Options in Plastic Surgery: Removal, Replacement, or a Lift
Implant removal returns you closer to your natural baseline, with a lighter feel whilst replacement of the breast implant maintains breast volume.
Newer cohesive gels are more stable with breast lift procedures reshaping and elevating tissue.
These can be done at the same time as implant removal or replacement.
With breast implant removal, natural aging still continues and replacements are not lifetime devices with many renewed every 10–15 years.
For breast lifts, skin quality matters.
The different surgical options will be discussed, and the costs are individualized to your situation.
In Tokyo, breast implant removal is usually JPY 500,000–1,000,000, whereas removal with total capsulectomy typically costs JPY 900,000–1,500,000.
Breast lifts or fat grafting add-ons cost in region of JPY 400,000–900,000+
After breast implant removal, discomfort usually resolves in 3–7 days.
After about a week, you should be able to perform daily tasks and full activities after 3–4 weeks.
Similar times (or slightly longer if pocket changes are needed) are experienced after implant replacement.
After a breast lift, there is some breast soreness and tissue swelling settles after 2-4 weeks.
Some patients notice loose skin, contour dips or asymmetry after implant removal.
There is also the risk of rupture and capsular contracture when breast implants are replaced.
Breast lifts result in scar patterns around the areola and lower breast.
BIANCA CLINIC in Tokyo: A “Near-Me” Aesthetic Clinic
At BIANCA CLINIC in Tokyo, we pride ourselves in our standards of hygiene, and bilingual support.
Take a look at what plastic surgery is like with us:
Before your procedure expect a warm welcome by our English-speaking beauty clinic team.
Your details will be completed in English or Japanese and your consultation will be with a board-certified plastic surgery specialist.
This will include a health review, imaging if needed, and a gentle breast examination.
We take before and after photographs for your private medical file to meet your realistic before & after goals.
We share decision-making with you regarding the type of procedure, anesthesia and whether to combine implant removal with a breast lift or fat grafting.
You will receive a personalized fee quotation and individualized preparation checklist if with your informed consent essential.
On the day of the procedure, we ask you to arrive 60 minutes early.
Surgical markings of the breast are performed in a bright, private room with our operating rooms working to the highest Japanese standards of cleanliness.
Safety protocols are in place.
Anesthesia is performed by an experienced anesthesiologist.
The plastic surgery procedure typically takes 1–3 hours.
The wound is closed with meticulous hemostasis to limit bruising and drains are placed when needed.
After surgery, to reduce as many breast implant removal side effects, most patients are discharged on the same day wearing a soft compression bra.
Post-operative pain is controlled with tailored medication, cool packs, and sleep-position recommendations.
We recommend showering after 24–48 hours unless otherwise directed.
Stitches can usually be removed in 7–10 days if not absorbable.
From week 2, silicone gel or sheets are used to protect scars and prevent darkening from sun exposure.
We will arrange follow-up appointments at the 1st week, 1st month, and 3rd month onwards.
We also offer telemedicine for travelers.
We have flexible scheduling at a “near me” location in Tokyo and even if you live outside the area you can access plastic surgery care more conveniently.
FAQs: Breast Implant Removal Side Effects
Will breast implant removal hurt?
Expect some soreness for several days which is usually managed with medication and a supportive bra.
Many patients find breast implant removal side effects easier than their initial augmentation.
Can I breastfeed later?
Removal alone usually preserves ducts and nipples so there is no problem.
A breast lift might present more breastfeeding challenges especially if the nipple was removed and grafted back on.
Your plastic surgery team will discuss the options with you.
How soon can I travel?
Most patients are able to undertake short flights after 3–5 days if agreed with your surgeon.
For longer distance travel, 1–2 weeks is safer.
Telemedicine can help when you return home.
Will I need breast drains?
Not always.
When placed, drains are typically removed within a few days and can reduce seroma risk.
What if I want a more natural look without implants?
Implant removal can be combined with a breast lift or modest fat grafting.
Your plastic surgery plan will always match your goals to your anatomy
Final Thoughts on Breast Implant Removal Side Effects
Information about breast implant removal side effects helps you to make calm and confident informed decisions.
With meticulous technique, personalized aftercare, and supportive follow-up, most patients heal smoothly with excellent results.
If you’re considering plastic surgery options, or simply want a second opinion, our English-speaking beauty clinic team at BIANCA CLINIC in Tokyo is here to help.
So book a free consultation or contact us to discuss a personalized plan at our Tokyo aesthetic clinic.
We look forward to hearing from you.