What Is Breast Implant Removal? 

Breast implant removal, also called explant surgery, involves taking out breast implants without replacing them. Depending on your individual needs, Dr. Davies may also remove surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy) or perform a breast lift at the same time to reshape and support your natural breast tissue. 

Dr. Davies customizes each procedure. Whether your goal is to return to a more natural look or address implant-related concerns, Dr. Davies will work with you to create a surgical plan that honors your body and your vision for the future. 

Team Photo at Savannah Plastic Surgery – Barbara L. Davies

Why Choose Dr. Barbara Davies?

Dr. Davies combines clinical expertise with an intuitive understanding of what women want from plastic surgery. Her warm, honest communication style and meticulous attention to detail make her one of the most sought after plastic surgeons in Savannah and throughout the Coastal Empire.

  • Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • More than 3 decades of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery
  • Committed to achieving results that look natural, not overdone
  • Offers a female surgeon’s insight into body image, self-esteem, and aesthetics

As one of the few female plastic surgeons in the region, Dr. Davies brings a compassionate, woman-to-woman perspective to every consultation. She understands the deeply personal reasons behind your decision to pursue breast augmentation and creates a welcoming, judgment-free environment where your goals are heard and respected.

When Should You Remove Implants? 

Just because you’ve had implants for 10 years or more doesn’t automatically mean you have to remove or replace them. If you have no health issues relating to your implants and the implants themselves are intact, then revision surgery may be unnecessary. Dr. Davies can do an exam and confirm this for you. 

Why Women Choose to Remove Their Breast Implants 

Women decide to remove their implants for a variety of reasons, including: 

  • A desire to return to a more natural breast size or shape 
  • Physical symptoms such as discomfort, tightness, or implant shifting 
  • Concerns about implant rupture, leakage, or long-term health 
  • Lifestyle changes or a change in aesthetic preferences 
  • Complications such as capsular contracture or breast asymmetry 

Whatever your reason, Dr. Davies offers a supportive environment where you can explore your options openly and without pressure. Her goal is to help you feel comfortable, confident, and empowered in your decision. 

Health-Related Reasons 

Some people experience health problems related to their breast implants. Some possible issues that might require implant removal include: 

  • Excessive scar tissue 
  • Capsular contracture
  • Leaking implant  

Appearance-Related Reasons 

Some people choose to have their breast implants removed for cosmetic reasons. Breasts can change in shape or size due to: 

  • Age 
  • Pregnancy 
  • Breastfeeding 
  • Changes in weight 

These changes can happen even in breasts with implants. And some people decide they no longer need or want implants, or decide they want to have their implants replaced with a new set of a different size or shape. 

Office Photo at Savannah Plastic Surgery – Barbara L. Davies

“Dr. Davies is an expert in her field. She explains all aspects of the procedure so you are completely aware of what to expect. She is also a perfectionist, which is exactly why I highly recommend her.”

Donna P.
5 Star Google Review
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Your Explant Surgery Consultation 

A breast implant revision consultation is similar to the consultation you had for your original implant procedure. You’ll have a physical examination and spend some time talking about the procedure with Dr. Davies. You’ll discuss a range of issues, including your goals for surgery, your medical history, and your previous breast augmentation procedure. You should mention any medications and supplements you’re taking. 

The consultation is also the best time to ask questions about the procedure. Make sure to ask for as much information as you need to be confident about making the right choice. 

Preparing for Implant Removal Surgery 

When you have surgery, you may need to make one or two changes before your procedure. If you need to prepare, your surgeon will let you know what to do and when. This might include: 

Medication changes: This may include prescription and over-the-counter medications.  

Stop using tobacco: If you vape or smoke cigarettes, you’ll need to stop both before and after surgery for at least 2 weeks. 

What To Expect From Explant Surgery 

Dr. Davies typically performs breast implant removal as an outpatient procedure while you’re under general anesthesia. Dr. Davies may: 

  • Remove the implants only 
  • Perform a partial or total capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue)
  • Combine implant removal with a breast lift for improved shape and support 

How Long Is Recovery After Implant Removal? 

Depending on your normal activity level, you may need to restrict some activities for the first 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. Generally, this means avoiding strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and high-impact exercise. We provide a list of activities to avoid.  

Some pain, swelling, and bruising in the breast area are normal after the procedure. These symptoms gradually improve over time. However, while most pain and bruising tend to resolve after a couple of weeks, some residual soreness may remain for up to 6 weeks. The swelling may take longer to go away completely. Dr. Davies may prescribe pain relief and antibiotic medications after surgery. It’s especially important to take antibiotics as prescribed to ensure you’re not at risk of infection. 

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Explant Surgery Results 

The results of breast implant removal surgery are highly individual and depend on whether there has been damage to your breast tissue. Some factors that might affect your results include: 

  • Whether the skin in your breast area has thinned extensively 
  • Whether you have lots of internal scar tissue around your implants, and how much scar tissue has to be removed 
  • The size of the implants being removed 
  • How much loose skin is left behind after removal 
  • Whether or not you choose to have replacement implants 
  • If you’ve been pregnant, breastfeeding, or had any significant changes in weight while you had breast implants 

Glowing Reviews From Dr. Davies' Patients

Dr Davies and her staff and unbelievable! She is the absolute best cosmetic surgeon I have ever come across. She is meticulous and takes her time making sure everything is done perfectly. She never disappoints....
Dr. Davies was amazing from start to finish. She really listened to what I wanted, explained everything clearly, and made me feel comfortable through the whole process. Her staff was so kind and supportive,...
Dr. Davies listens to you. She is an excellent surgeon who take the time to make sure you get great results.
Dr. Davies is so wonderful. She takes so much time with you and answers all of your questions. She makes you feel comfortable while making sure your expectations are attainable. I would not recommend...

Let’s Talk

Choosing to remove your breast implants is a profoundly personal decision. When you partner with Dr. Davies, you can expect personalized care, refined technique, and results that reflect your vision of confidence. That’s why she sees breast implant removal patients from throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Ready to take the next step? Request a consultation with Dr. Davies using the online form or by calling us at (912) 351-5050.  

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