Your body and aesthetic goals can evolve over time, and so can your preferences. Whether you are experiencing complications, want a more natural look, or are simply ready for a change, Dr. Steve Vu provides safe, customized breast implant removal procedures at Aesthetix Plastic Surgery in Huntington Beach.
With more than 25 years of board-certified experience, Dr. Vu combines surgical precision with a compassionate, individualized approach. His goal is to help you look and feel your best on your own terms.
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, is a procedure that removes previously placed implants. Depending on your needs, Dr. Vu may also remove surrounding scar tissue (capsule) or perform a breast lift to improve the shape and contour of your natural breasts.
The procedure is performed in Dr. Vuโs AAAASF-accredited private surgery center for optimal comfort, safety, and privacy.
Common reasons patients choose to remove their implants include:
- Desire for a more natural appearance
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)
- Discomfort or changes in breast sensation
- Shifting lifestyle or aesthetic goals
Why Choose Dr. Vu for Breast Implant Removal?
Patients across Orange County trust Dr. Vu for his surgical expertise, honest guidance, and dedication to natural-looking outcomes.
- Board-Certified Experience โ Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with over 25 years in practice.
- Comprehensive Care โ Consultations, surgery, and recovery all take place under one roof.
- Personalized Treatment Plans โ Every procedure is customized to your anatomy and goals.
- Advanced Techniques โ Options like total capsulectomy or breast lift are available when appropriate.
- Focus on Safety and Comfort โ Procedures are performed in our accredited Mosaic Surgery Center using the latest anesthesia and pain management options, including non-opioid Exparelยฎ.
Non-Opioid Pain Relief Option
To help patients recover comfortably, Dr. Vu offers Exparelยฎ, a long-acting, non-opioid anesthetic administered during surgery. Exparel works directly at the surgical site to provide targeted pain relief for several days after your procedure. This helps minimize the need for additional pain medication and supports a smoother, more comfortable recovery experience.
Types of Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Vu tailors each surgery to your goals, anatomy, and implant history. During your consultation, he will evaluate your implants and tissue to determine which approach best suits your needs.
Simple Implant Removal
The implants are removed, and the existing capsule is left in place if it is healthy and thin. This is ideal if you do not have significant scar tissue or complications.
If you have saline implants, Dr. Vu may recommend a deflation procedure before surgery. This allows your body to adjust gradually and gives you a realistic sense of how your breasts may look without implants. It can also help you decide whether youโd like to move forward with a lift, replacement, or simple removal.
Implant Removal with Capsulectomy
If scar tissue has thickened or hardened around the implant (known as capsular contracture), Dr. Vu may remove part or all of the capsule for optimal comfort and appearance.
Total Periprosthetic Capsulectomy
The term โen bloc removalโ is often used online, especially within discussions about Breast Implant Illness. In most situations, the appropriate surgical technique is known as a total periprosthetic capsulectomy. This approach involves carefully removing the implant along with all or most of the surrounding capsule tissue in one piece, when medically suitable.
In some cases, a partial capsulectomy may be recommended instead. During your consultation, Dr. Vu will review your individual anatomy, implant type, and medical history to determine the safest and most effective technique for your needs.
Implant Removal with Lift (Explant + Mastopexy)
After implant removal, some patients may benefit from a breast lift to restore shape and position. This option helps achieve a balanced, natural contour without the need for replacement implants.
Your Breast Implant Removal Experience
Consultation
Youโll meet directly with Dr. Vu to discuss your goals and any concerns about your implants. He will perform a detailed examination, review your implant history, and recommend the best surgical plan for your needs.
Day of Surgery
The procedure is performed in our private, accredited surgical facility under anesthesia. Most surgeries take one to two hours, depending on the complexity.
Recovery
Most patients return home the same day. You may experience mild swelling and tightness during the first week, which improves steadily. Light activity can typically resume after a few days, and most patients feel comfortable returning to work within one to two weeks.
Results
You can expect a more natural shape and renewed sense of comfort and confidence. Over time, your breasts will continue to settle into their new contour.
Recovery and Pain Management
Healing after implant removal is generally straightforward. Discomfort is mild to moderate and can be managed with prescribed medication or non-opioid pain control options like Exparelยฎ for extended relief after surgery.
Dr. Vu and his team provide detailed aftercare instructions and remain in close contact during your recovery to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Breast Implant Removal FAQs
Every patientโs experience with implant removal is unique, but a few questions often come up during consultations. Hereโs what Huntington Beach patients usually want to know before moving forward:
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Will I Need A Breast Lift After Implant Removal?
That depends on how much your skin has stretched over time and how your breasts respond once the implants are removed. Some patients are happy with their natural shape, while others choose a lift to restore a firmer, more youthful look. During your consultation, Dr. Vu will help you decide what will give you the best balance and shape.
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Can I Replace My Implants Later?
Absolutely. Some patients prefer to stay implant-free, while others decide to replace them after seeing how they feel without implants. Youโre never locked into one choice; itโs all about what makes you most comfortable and confident.
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How Long Does Recovery After Breast Implant Removal Take?
Most patients are surprised by how smooth the recovery is. Youโll need to take it easy for a few days, but many people feel ready to return to work and light activity within a week or two. Dr. Vu and his team walk you through exactly what to expect so you can plan your downtime.
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Are Breast Implant Removal Results Permanent?
Yes, the implants and any removed scar tissue are gone for good. Your breasts will continue to change naturally over time with age and weight fluctuations, just like anyone elseโs, but the results of removal itself are lasting.
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Will My Breasts Look Deflated After Implant Removal?
Itโs normal for your breasts to look a little different right after surgery, especially if youโve had implants for many years. The skin and tissue need time to settle and adjust. Some patients are pleasantly surprised by how natural their breasts look once swelling goes down, while others choose a lift or fat transfer later on for extra shape and support. During your consultation, Dr. Vu will show you what to expect based on your anatomy so you can plan your results with confidence.
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Can Implant Removal Help With Discomfort Or Tightness?
For many patients, yes. If youโve been experiencing tightness, pressure, or discomfort from your implants or surrounding scar tissue, removing them can bring noticeable relief. Once the implants and any hardened capsule are removed, your chest often feels lighter and more natural again.
Still Have Questions?
Every patientโs journey is different, and itโs important to feel fully informed before making your decision. Dr. Vu and his team are always available to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you feel confident about your next steps.
Achieve Lasting Definition and Balance
Ready to explore how breast implant removal can offer relief, restoration, or simply a fresh start? Meet with Dr. Vu to discuss your goals, explore your options, and discover how he can help you achieve the goals you desire. Schedule a consultation with Aesthetix Plastic Surgery to start your journey toward enhanced definition and lasting confidence.
