If you’re researching breast augmentation and you’ve hit the saline vs. silicone question, you’ve probably already discovered that everyone has an opinion and most of them conflict. Your friend swears by silicone. A forum post you read last night made saline sound like the obviously smarter choice. Your surgeon mentioned something about gummy bear implants and now you have even more questions than you started with.

Here’s the reality: both are good options, both are FDA-cleared with decades of safety data behind them, and neither is universally better than the other. The right choice depends on your body, your priorities, and what you’re actually trying to achieve. This post will walk you through the real differences so you can walk into your consultation already knowing what questions to ask.

The Short Version

Silicone implants feel more natural, look more natural in patients with minimal breast tissue, and are the more popular choice for those reasons. Saline implants are simpler, cost a little less, and have one practical advantage that matters to some patients: if they rupture, you know immediately. Neither type is dangerous. Neither causes cancer. The decision is about feel, aesthetics, your body type, and your personal priorities, not about avoiding a dangerous option.

What’s Actually Inside Each Implant

Both saline and silicone implants have an outer shell made of silicone. That surprises some patients who think they’re choosing between silicone and something else entirely. What you’re actually choosing is what fills that shell.

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after the shell is placed in your body. That means the implant goes in empty through a smaller incision and is filled to the desired volume once it’s positioned correctly. The fill volume can be adjusted slightly during surgery, which gives your surgeon a small degree of flexibility in achieving symmetry.

Silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel and go in as a complete unit. They require a slightly longer incision because the full implant needs to fit through it. The gel inside is designed to hold together rather than flow freely, which is where the term gummy bear implant comes from, though that term specifically refers to a highly cohesive variety rather than all silicone implants.

How They Look and Feel

This is what most patients care about most, and it’s where the two options differ most noticeably.

Silicone gel feels closer to natural breast tissue. It moves more naturally, compresses more naturally, and for most patients looks more natural, particularly in the upper pole where saline implants can sometimes look visibly rounded or full in a way that reads as less organic. If you have minimal natural breast tissue to begin with, the difference between saline and silicone is more pronounced, because there’s less of your own tissue softening and disguising the implant beneath the surface.

Saline implants feel firmer. They’re also more prone to rippling, which is a visible or palpable waviness in the implant that can show through the skin, particularly along the sides or bottom of the breast. Again, patients with more natural tissue coverage notice this less. A patient who is very lean with minimal existing breast tissue is more likely to find rippling noticeable with saline than a patient who has more tissue to work with.

Over time, both implant types change somewhat as the surrounding tissue settles and the implants drop into their final position. Silicone tends to maintain its feel more consistently over the long term.

Is Saline or Silicone Safer?

Both are safe. That’s the starting point, not a caveat at the end of a list of warnings.

The meaningful safety difference between them is what happens when they rupture, which we’ll cover in the next section. Beyond that, neither type has been shown to cause cancer, and the evidence on breast implant illness, which we cover in depth in a separate post, doesn’t point to one type being significantly more likely to cause systemic symptoms than the other.

The FDA added a boxed warning to all breast implants in 2021, not because they’re dangerous, but to ensure patients are fully informed about the range of possible risks before surgery. Those risks exist for both implant types, and understanding them is part of making a genuinely informed decision. A good surgeon walks you through all of it before you sign anything.

What Happens If They Rupture

This is the most practically important difference between the two options and it’s worth understanding clearly.

With saline, rupture is obvious. The implant deflates, usually within hours to a few days, and the change in appearance is immediate and visible. The saltwater that leaks out is absorbed harmlessly by your body. You’ll know something happened, you’ll schedule surgery to replace the implant, and there’s no lingering uncertainty about whether a rupture has occurred.

With silicone, rupture is silent. The cohesive gel stays largely contained within the scar tissue capsule that forms around every implant, so there’s no visible deflation and often no symptoms at all. You can have a ruptured silicone implant and have no idea. This is why the FDA recommends that silicone implant patients get periodic MRI screening, starting three years after surgery and every two years after that, to check for silent rupture. Some patients factor this ongoing monitoring commitment into their decision. Others don’t find it particularly burdensome. It’s worth thinking about honestly before you choose.

Rupture rates for both types have improved significantly with modern implant technology, and neither is considered likely to rupture in the short to medium term with a well-performed surgery and appropriate aftercare.

Saline vs. Silicone Cost

Saline implants generally cost less than silicone, both in the price of the implant itself and sometimes in the overall procedure cost. The gap varies depending on the specific products used and the complexity of your surgery, but it’s a real difference worth factoring in if budget is a genuine constraint.

What shouldn’t drive the decision is trying to save money on the wrong option for your body. If you have minimal breast tissue and you’re prone to rippling, choosing saline to save money and ending up unhappy with the result means eventually spending more on a revision. The cost conversation is worth having honestly with your surgeon in the context of what’s actually right for your anatomy.

Other factors that affect total cost include surgical facility fees, anesthesia, your surgeon’s fee, and any pre-operative testing required. Dr. Newman provides a clear cost breakdown after your consultation so you know exactly what you’re looking at before making any decisions.

Who Should Consider Saline

Saline is a strong option if any of the following apply to you. You want the peace of mind of knowing immediately if something goes wrong with your implant. You have enough natural breast tissue that feel and rippling are less of a concern. You want to minimize cost without compromising on a result you’ll be happy with. You prefer the idea of a slightly smaller incision. You’re younger and anticipating the possibility of replacement over time, and you want the simpler option.

Some patients also simply prefer the idea of saltwater inside their body over silicone gel, even though the outer shell is silicone either way. That’s a personal preference that’s worth honoring.

Who Should Consider Silicone

Silicone tends to be the better fit if you have minimal natural breast tissue and want the most natural-looking and feeling result possible. If rippling is a concern, either because you’re lean or because you’ve seen it in someone else’s result and it bothers you, silicone significantly reduces that risk. If aesthetics are your primary priority and you’re comfortable with the MRI screening recommendation, silicone delivers results that are harder to achieve with saline in most body types.

The majority of breast augmentation patients do choose silicone, and the primary reason is feel and appearance. For patients with adequate tissue coverage the difference is less dramatic, but for leaner patients it can be significant.

Gummy Bear Implants: Where They Fit In

Gummy bear implants are a type of silicone implant, not a separate third category. The term refers to highly cohesive silicone gel implants that hold their shape even if the outer shell is compromised, similar to how a gummy bear holds its shape when cut. They’re typically teardrop-shaped rather than round, designed to mimic the natural slope of the breast with more fullness at the bottom than the top.

The advantages are real: excellent shape retention, very low risk of gel migration if rupture occurs, and reduced rippling. The trade-offs are that they feel slightly firmer than standard silicone, require a longer incision because they can’t be rotated during placement, and cost more than standard silicone implants. They’re not the right choice for every patient, but for patients who prioritize shape and long-term stability, they’re worth discussing during your consultation.

Silicone and Saline Breast Implant Pros and Cons

Saline pros: lower cost, immediate and obvious rupture detection, slightly smaller incision, saltwater fill is completely harmless if leaked, adjustable fill volume during surgery.

Saline cons: firmer feel, more prone to rippling, less natural appearance, particularly in patients with minimal tissue, visible roundness in upper pole can look less organic.

Silicone pros: feels closer to natural breast tissue, looks more natural across a wider range of body types, less rippling, moves more naturally, maintains feel over time.

Silicone cons: higher cost, silent rupture requires ongoing MRI monitoring, longer incision required, gel migration possible in older or lower-cohesion implants if capsule is compromised.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

A good consultation for breast augmentation isn’t just a conversation; it’s a physical assessment. Dr. David Newman looks at your existing breast tissue, your chest wall measurements, your skin elasticity, and your overall frame. All of those factors directly influence which implant type, size, and profile will produce the result you’re looking for.

Most practices use sizers during consultation, temporary implants placed in a bra so you can get a visual sense of different volumes and profiles before committing to anything. It’s an imperfect simulation, but it helps patients who are struggling to visualize the difference between a modest and a more dramatic result.

Looking at before-and-after photos of patients with a similar body type to yours is genuinely more useful than scrolling through general gallery images. A result that looks incredible on a patient with a larger frame and more natural tissue tells you very little about what the same implant would look like on a petite patient with minimal coverage. Ask to see results from patients who started where you’re starting. You can browse real patient results from Dr. Newman’s practice in our before and after gallery to get a realistic sense of outcomes across different body types.

Come See Us at Newman Plastic Surgery

The saline vs. silicone decision is one that makes a lot more sense once someone who knows what they’re looking at has actually assessed your anatomy. What’s right for your best friend or your coworker or the person whose results you admired online may or may not be right for you, and the only way to know is a real conversation based on your specific body and goals.

If you’re in the Temecula, Murrieta, or Menifee area and you’re considering breast augmentation, contact Newman Plastic Surgery in Murrieta to schedule your consultation with Dr. Newman. Come with your questions, your concerns, and your goals, and leave with a clear plan.

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If you’re reading this, you’re probably in one of two places. Either you’re researching breast augmentation and you’ve stumbled across some intimidating stuff online, or you already have implants and you’ve been experiencing symptoms you can’t explain, and you’re trying to figure out if your implants are the reason. 

So here it is: for the vast majority of patients, breast implants are safe. But there are real risks worth understanding, and some in the medical community haven’t always done a great job of taking patient concerns seriously. This post isn’t going to tell you everything is fine just to sell you a surgery, but we’re also not going to go overboard talking about the dangers. We’ll do our best to give you an honest picture.

What Is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?

Breast implant illness, or BII, is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that some patients with breast implants experience and attribute to their implants. It is not currently a recognized medical diagnosis, meaning there’s no entry in the official diagnostic manual and no standardized criteria for identifying it. That fact gets used to dismiss patients, which is a problem, because the absence of an official diagnosis doesn’t mean people aren’t experiencing real symptoms.

What BII appears to be, based on what patients consistently report and what researchers are beginning to study more seriously, is a systemic response in certain individuals to having a foreign object in their body long-term. Why it affects some patients and not others isn’t fully understood. The honest answer is that research is still catching up to patient experience on this one.

Breast Implant Illness Symptoms: What Patients Report

The symptoms associated with BII are wide-ranging, which is part of what makes it so hard to study and so easy to dismiss. They overlap with dozens of other conditions, from autoimmune disorders to thyroid problems to anxiety. That overlap doesn’t make the symptoms less real. It just makes attribution genuinely complicated.

The most commonly reported breast implant illness symptoms include:

• Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, often described as a heavy, persistent exhaustion that shows up after augmentation and doesn’t have another obvious explanation.
• Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and a general sense of mental cloudiness.
• Joint and muscle pain, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.
• Hair loss or changes in hair texture.
• Rash, skin reactions, or new sensitivities that weren’t present before surgery.
• Weight gain that resists normal diet and exercise, or unexplained changes in how the body holds weight.
• Neurological symptoms include tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the hands, feet, or face.
• Anxiety, depression, or mood changes that feel disconnected from life circumstances.
• Hormonal disruption, including irregular cycles and changes in thyroid function.
• Chronic headaches, dry eyes, and recurring infections are also reported with some frequency.

If you’re reading that list and share some of these symptoms, the right move is to work with your doctor to rule out other causes systematically before concluding your implants are the source. BII is real for the patients who have it, but these symptoms have many potential causes, and a thorough workup is the responsible starting point.

How Common Is Breast Implant Illness?

Nobody knows how common BII is, and that’s the unfortunate, honest answer. BII isn’t an official diagnosis, so there’s no registry tracking it. Patient advocacy groups have collected thousands of reports, and the FDA has received a significant volume of complaints related to systemic symptoms from implant patients. Researchers are actively studying it now in a way they weren’t a decade ago.

What we can say is that it’s likely underreported, partly because patients weren’t taken seriously for a long time and stopped bringing it up, and partly because the symptom overlaps with other conditions, meaning many cases probably never got connected to implants at all. Whether it’s rare or more common than currently understood is genuinely still an open question.

Is There a Breast Implant Illness Test?

No. There is no single test that confirms BII. This is frustrating for patients who are experiencing symptoms and want a clear answer, and it’s one of the reasons the condition remains so difficult to navigate medically.

What typically happens instead is a process of elimination. A thorough examination to rule out autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, and other explanations. Tracking symptom onset and progression in relation to when implants were placed. Working with a physician who is willing to take the concern seriously rather than dismissing it.

For patients who have gone through that process and still believe their implants are the source, explant surgery is an option. Some patients report significant improvement in symptoms after removal. Others see partial improvement. Outcomes vary, and the research on post-explant symptom resolution is still developing. It’s a decision worth making with a surgeon who will give you an honest assessment rather than a reflexively reassuring one.

Can Breast Implants Cause Cancer?

This question actually covers two separate issues:

The first is BIA-ALCL, which stands for breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. This is a real and confirmed risk, though an uncommon one. It’s a cancer of the immune system, not breast cancer, and it develops in the scar tissue or fluid around the implant rather than in the breast tissue itself. The risk is most strongly associated with textured implants rather than smooth ones. When caught early, BIA-ALCL is highly treatable, typically through implant and capsule removal. When caught late, it can be harder to treat. 

The second question is whether breast implants cause breast cancer or other cancers more broadly. Current evidence does not support that link. Large studies have not found a meaningful increase in breast cancer rates among implant patients compared to the general population. The FDA continues to monitor this, and research is ongoing, but the current scientific consensus does not support the idea that implants are toxic in a way that drives cancer development.

Can You Die From Breast Implant Illness?

BII itself has not been shown to be fatal. The symptoms it produces, while genuinely debilitating for some patients, are not directly life-threatening based on current evidence.

BIA-ALCL is a different matter. It is a cancer, and like any cancer, it can become dangerous if it progresses without treatment. The good news is that when it’s caught at an early, localized stage, the survival rate with appropriate treatment is very high. The cases that have resulted in death have generally involved late detection and spread beyond the capsule. This is why monitoring after augmentation matters, and why any new swelling, asymmetry, or changes around an implant should be evaluated promptly rather than waiting it out.

Are Some Implants More Dangerous Than Others?

Yes, and this is worth understanding clearly before you make any decisions.

Textured implants carry a higher associated risk of BIA-ALCL than smooth implants. The FDA added a boxed warning to breast implants in 2021 and has taken certain textured implant products off the market. If you’re considering augmentation, smooth implants are currently the lower-risk choice from a lymphoma standpoint.

The saline vs. silicone question is a separate consideration. Both are FDA-cleared, and both have long safety track records. Silicone implants feel more natural to most patients. Saline implants have the advantage of an obvious deflation if rupture occurs. Silicone ruptures are silent, which is why the FDA recommends periodic MRI screening for silicone implant patients to detect rupture. Neither type is inherently dangerous, but they come with different monitoring considerations.

The conversation about which implant type is right for you is one worth having in detail during your consultation, based on your anatomy, your goals, and your personal risk tolerance.

What to Know Before Getting Implants

Going in informed makes a meaningful difference. A few things worth knowing before you schedule surgery:

The FDA recommends that patients considering breast implants receive a patient decision checklist before surgery. If your surgeon isn’t offering this, ask for it.

The same breast implants are not meant to be in place for a lifetime. The longer they’re in place, the higher the likelihood that at some point removal or replacement will be needed. Going in with that expectation is more realistic than assuming one surgery is permanent.

Your surgeon should be someone who will answer the BII question directly, not dismiss it. A surgeon who waves off your concerns about systemic symptoms isn’t someone you want doing your surgery.

Know what type of implant is being used and why. Smooth vs. textured, saline vs. silicone, the dimensions and profile. These are things you should understand before you sign consent forms.

If You Already Have Implants and You’re Worried

Don’t dismiss your own symptoms. If you’ve been experiencing fatigue, brain fog, rash, joint pain, neurological symptoms, or unexplained weight gain, and you’ve had implants for any length of time, bring it up with your doctor. Ask for a workup. Be persistent if you’re not being taken seriously, because unfortunately, that still happens.

If you’ve had silicone implants for several years and haven’t had imaging done, talk to your surgeon about whether a screening MRI makes sense. Silent rupture is real and worth ruling out.

And if, after a thorough process, you believe your implants are contributing to how you feel, explantation is a legitimate option. It’s not giving up, it’s making a decision based on your own body and your own experience. Dr. Newman performs explant surgery and approaches those conversations without judgment.

Why the Surgeon You Choose Matters

Not every surgeon approaches this topic the same way. Some will minimize the BII conversation to avoid complicating a sale. Some will go the other direction and use fear to push patients toward explanations they may not need. Neither serves you well.

What you want is a surgeon who uses current FDA-cleared implants, stays current on the evolving research, gives you real answers to hard questions, and monitors patients appropriately after surgery. That’s the baseline for doing this responsibly, and it’s what a consultation with Dr. Newman at Newman Plastic Surgery looks like.

Talk to Dr. Newman at Newman Plastic Surgery

If you’re in the Temecula, Murrieta, or Menifee area and you’re considering breast augmentation, or you have implants and you have concerns you haven’t been able to get straight answers on, come in. This is a conversation Dr. Newman takes seriously, and you’ll leave with real information rather than a sales pitch. Contact Newman Plastic Surgery in Murrieta to schedule your consultation.

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If your breast implant feels firm, aches, or appears deformed, you could be suffering from capsular contracture.

Capsular contracture occurs when the fibrous scar tissue (the capsule) that usually forms around the implant becomes contracted and compresses the implant. This can produce discomfort and change the appearance of the breast.

Capsular contracture may be treated conservatively with non-surgical methods or surgically through a corrective operation based on the degree of contraction.

We’ll go over what to look for in terms of signs, who’s at risk, the various non-surgical and surgical treatment options available, and how to minimize and treat the recovery and potential prevention of this issue to develop a solid plan with Dr. David A. Newman and our staff.

If you think you may have capsular contracture and are in the Temecula area, contact Newman Plastic Surgery for a case consultation. 

What is Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture is when the fibrous scar tissue surrounding a breast implant (capsule) becomes contracted and compresses the implant. Normally, your body forms a thin layer of fibrous scar tissue called a capsule to encapsulate any foreign object, including a breast implant. However, when the capsule becomes thickened and contracts, it can cause discomfort and change the appearance of the breast. You may notice that one breast is firmer than previously or that both are uneven. Firmness can vary from a mild tightness to a completely firm, misshapen breast. Discomfort or pain may occur due to the tight capsule.

Capsular contracture can alter the implant position, shape, and the overall appearance of the breast.

How Does Capsular Contracture Occur and Why?

Capsular contracture begins with inflammation around the implant. The most common causes of inflammation are contamination by bacteria that occurred either during or after surgery, postoperative bleeding, or minor repeated injuries to the area. The body reacts by creating more fibrous scar tissue, and, in some cases, contracting it.

Risk factors for developing capsular contracture include:

1. Implants placed above the muscle
2. Smooth-surface implants
3. Smoking
4. Radiation therapy to the chest
5. Infection

Infection is the primary cause. Even small levels of bacteria can continue to inflame the area chronically. An individual’s healing response plays a role in their ability to form thickened scars.

Symptoms to Look Out For

Watch for changes in firmness, shape, and pain. Mild contracture may present itself as a slight, early tightening or change in the breast shape. Severe contracture may cause the breasts to appear rounded, higher, or unbalanced.

Some common symptoms include:

• Increasing firmness or hardness of the breast
• Visible changes or irregularities in the shape of the breast
• Pain, tenderness, or discomfort, especially with compression
• The implant feels higher or pushed towards the middle of the breast

If you experience persistent firmness, worsening symmetry, or pain, schedule an appointment with our office immediately. Identifying symptoms earlier in the process allows for greater options in treatment and helps prevent further progression.

Risk Factors for Developing Capsular Contracture

Some of the risks for developing capsular contracture include medical histories, types of implants, and individual healing responses.

Smoking, radiation therapy, contamination of the implant with bacteria, the type of implant, and the location of the implant all contribute to the development of capsular contracture.

Common Risk Factors

Radiation therapy to the chest can damage tissues and stimulate chronic inflammation around the implant. Smoking also restricts blood flow and slows down the healing process, which promotes scarring.

Even tiny amounts of bacteria on the implant can start a cycle of chronic inflammation. Bacteria can grow in the initial fluid or blood that develops around the implant in the early post-operative period. If you are prone to repeated infections or have a tendency to form dense scars, you are at increased risk of developing contracture.

Implant Surface Types Matter

Smooth-surface implants pose a different level of risk than textured implants. Larger implants or those positioned directly under the muscle (subglandular) can exert greater pressure on the capsule and increase the likelihood of it becoming contracted.

How Surgeon Techniques Influence Risk

Your surgeon’s techniques affect the prevention of infection and tissue trauma. Maintaining strict sterility, gently managing the implant, and limiting the amount of time spent in the operating room can significantly reduce the amount of bacteria transferred to the implant and subsequently reduce the risk of developing contracture.

The placement of the implant also influences the risk of developing contracture. Generally, the submuscular (under the pectoralis muscle) placement of the implant reduces the risk of contracture compared to subglandular placement. The muscle provides additional protection and reduces direct pressure on the capsule.

Additional Choices That Influence Risk Include:

Incision Site – Whether a sleeve or irrigation solution was used during the implantation process

Gentle tissue dissection, controlling hemorrhage to minimize the amount of bleeding around the implant, and the use of an antimicrobial wash can all reduce the number of triggers that can lead to contracture.

Treatment Options for Capsular Contracture

Both non-surgical and surgical methods exist for treating capsular contracture. Both options are designed to alleviate pain, soften the breast, and restore its original shape. Depending on the degree of the symptoms, Baker Grade, and personal preferences, you can select one method or combine both.

Conservative Measures

Conservative measures can be effective in treating mild to moderate cases of contracture and may delay the necessity for surgery. Medications such as anti-inflammatory agents can provide relief from pain and swelling. Other non-surgical methods include targeted massage and ultrasound therapy to soften the capsule. While massage and ultrasound may be beneficial when implemented early, they can rarely reverse firm, advanced contractures. Some clinics provide device-based treatments (such as external ultrasound or massage devices) to reduce the tightness of the capsule; anticipate moderate success and possible repeat sessions.

Provide your surgeon with information regarding any signs of infection. If a cause such as a low-grade infection or seroma is detected, antibiotics or drainage may be necessary prior to initiating any other treatments.

Surgical Alternatives

Surgery is the most reliable method to correct moderate to severe contracture or when symptoms do not improve. Commonly performed surgical alternatives for correcting contracture include:

Capsulotomy – the surgeon opens and cuts into the capsule to release the tension.

Capsulectomy – partial or complete removal of the scar tissue that has become hardened.
Exchange of Implant – replacement of the current implant, commonly with an alternative type or positioning.

Based upon your case, your surgeon may elect to move the implant pocket from subglandular to submuscular, utilize textured or smooth-surfaced implants, or apply an acellular dermal matrix to minimize recurrence. Surgery, however, carries risks including bleeding, infection, anesthetic complications, and recurrence of contracture. Recovery and follow-up appointments are generally required and vary, but typically include restrictions on activity and follow-up appointments to assess healing.

Determining Which Treatment Option Works Best for You

Determine your treatment options based upon your symptoms, the age of your implant(s), and your cosmetic objectives. Non-surgical methods may be considered reasonable to attempt initially if your breast feels only slightly firmer and/or you experience minimal pain. If you suffer from pain, noticeable distortion, or a Baker Grade III-IV contracture, surgery will likely provide the most favorable long term results.

Consult with Dr. David A. Newman at our clinic to determine specifics including expected outcomes, the location of your scars, implant options, and the risk of recurrence. Ask about utilizing imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to assess the integrity of the implant(s) and to determine if any infection or rupture is occurring. Create a written plan outlining the procedural steps, anticipated recovery timeline, and follow-up care to ensure you understand what to expect.

Recovery and Prevention

Recovery from surgery is generally brief, followed by a series of strategies to minimize the risk of recurrence of capsular contracture. Expect to follow a regimen of wound care, limited activity, and follow-up appointments to identify any problems early-on and protect your results.

Post-Surgical Care

Following surgery, you will have dressings and possibly drains that are removed within 24-48 hours. You may experience a period of tightness, bruising, and soreness that reaches its peak in the first week and continues to improve until two to six weeks post-operatively.

Your surgeon will provide you with a specific timeline: when to remove your dressings, when to remove your drain(s) (if applicable), and when to return for suture removal and examinations.

Activity Restrictions

Limiting your physical activity is important. For four to six weeks post-operatively, avoid heavy lifting, bending, or any exercise that strains the chest muscles. Gradually return to normal activities as directed by your surgeon. Wear the recommended post-operative supportive garments or bras to control swelling and support the implant position.

Be aware of warning signs that require immediate attention from the office: increasing pain, redness, fever, sudden firmness of the breast, or unusual drainage. Contact the office as soon as you experience any of these symptoms. Prompt treatment will decrease the risk of complications and may reduce the need for future surgery.

Ways to Decrease the Likelihood of Reoccurrence

Adhere strictly to the instructions provided for preventing infection: take any antibiotics that were prescribed, maintain the cleanliness and dryness of your incisions, and refrain from touching the areas with unwashed hands. Infection and chronic inflammation are major contributors to the risk of developing contracture.

Avoid smoking and the use of nicotine products for at least four-six weeks pre-operatively and post-operatively. Nicotine can slow the healing process and promote scarring.

Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to allow Dr. David A. Newman to evaluate the formation of the capsule early. If Dr. Newman identifies any evidence of early tightening, non-surgical interventions such as massage (as directed), ultrasound, or medications may be effective.

During breast implant revision surgery, the choices that can minimize recurrence include capsulectomy or capsulotomy, converting the implant pocket from subglandular to submuscular, using textured or smooth-surfaced implants selectively, and applying an acellular dermal matrix. Discuss the risks and benefits with the staff to develop a plan tailored to your specific situation.

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After breast implant removal, you will likely experience more looseness and reduced fullness. However, the extent to which your breasts will sag after explant will depend on your skin, the size of the implants, and how long they were in your body. The majority of women will experience some degree of sagging after implant removal, and most will elect to undergo a breast lift or another procedure to reshape and lift their breasts simultaneously.

This post will address how removing the implants changes the overall breast shape and the expected changes, as opposed to the amount of actual sagging experienced by patients. We will also discuss options available to restore shape and volume to your breasts. By the end, you will understand the various ways to determine if you should plan for a breast lift, the possibility of utilizing fat grafting or just waiting for your body to heal prior to undergoing additional surgery.

How Implant Removal Affects Breast Shape

Once an implant is removed, there will be a loss of volume, skin elasticity will decrease due to the loss of support from the implant, and the position of the tissue will change. Typically your breasts will be smaller, less full on the upper portion, and the skin will be looser or hang differently than it did prior to the removal of the implants based upon multiple factors.

What Happens to Breasts Once They Have Had an Implant Removed

After an implant is removed the skin and breast tissue lose the support and the stretching caused by the implant. Generally, you will have less fullness on the upper pole of the breast and the contours will be softer and flatter in the area where the implant was located. The nipple(s) will generally sit lower on the breast mound and will likely point downward since the skin has stretched.

The internal structures that supported the implant (such as the pocket and the capsule) may either collapse or tighten. Additionally, the scarring from the implant pocket can affect the overall shape. There will be some areas where the tissue will settle within days and some areas where the tissue will take months to soften and become positioned again. If you wish to achieve more lift or volume, you can opt for a mastopexy (breast lift) or fat transfer — both are common options.

Factors That Determine the Amount of Sagging After Removal

Age affects skin elasticity; as you get older, your skin has less recoil, therefore it tends to sag more easily. Similarly, the size of the implants and how long they have been in your body are important factors as well — larger implants and longer periods of time in your body result in greater stretch. Additionally, your original breast size and the quality of the connective tissue in your breasts will influence how well your breasts bounce back.

Other factors, such as smoking, having children, gaining or losing weight, or having prior surgeries, can all affect the elasticity of your skin and the quality of your tissue. Likewise, the location of the pocket (under muscle vs. under muscle) and the existence of capsular contracture can affect the final shape of your breasts post-removal. It is essential to share your medical history with Dr. David A. Newman so he can advise you on what to expect and what corrective measures would be advisable.

Temporary Changes vs. Permanent Results

Generally, in the short term, you can anticipate swelling, bruising, and increased firmness resulting from the surgery. Within the first 6 – 12 weeks, your breasts will appear smaller and possibly sit higher or in odd positions as the tissues adjust. Your sensation and firmness may also change and ultimately stabilize as the tissues continue to heal.

It is generally within 6 – 12 months post-surgery that the final results will appear. By that time, the tissue will have settled, and the scars will have matured. While some patients may permanently experience sagging or looseness that cannot be corrected without a lift, others may end up with a soft and natural-looking shape due to the elasticity of their skin and the fact that they had small implants. If you desire to achieve a consistent shape and projection after removal, consult with the Newman Plastic Surgery team regarding combining explant with a lift or fat grafting at the time of removal.

Indicators of Sagging Post Explant Surgery

Some of the indicators of sagging post-explant surgery may be less fullness, a nipple that is lower than normal or excessive loose skin. While some of these changes are temporary and will occur during the healing process, others may be permanent if the skin and tissue no longer have sufficient elastic properties to “bounce back” into their original shape.

Identifying Sagging

Identify sagging by looking for drooping of the nipple to below the inframammary fold. One or both nipples pointing downward or being positioned lower than in previous surgery indicates sagging (ptosis). Check for loose or excess skin that causes a folding or wrinkling effect when leaning forward. Compare the two sides. When standing in front of a mirror with your arms at your side, compare the nipple heights, the amount of breast tissue hanging below the inframammary fold, and the general appearance of deflation. Photographs taken before and after explant may demonstrate changes more clearly than memory.

Healing vs. Sagging

Within the first three to six months post-explant surgery, swelling, tissue settling, and skin stretching can create uneven or sloppy appearing breasts. Wearing supportive bras and compressive garments can assist with improving appearance while the skin continues to tighten. Mild asymmetry and tenderness are common and often resolve as time passes.

If, after six to twelve months, the nipple remains below the inframammary fold, or if the skin hangs with a distinct shelf, it is likely a result of a permanent change. Factors that contribute to permanent sagging include large implant sizes, low skin elasticity, pregnancy, and advanced age. If you desire improvement, options include a mastopexy (breast lift), fat grafting, or replacing the implants with smaller ones. Discuss these options with Dr. David A. Newman at our office so you can develop a customized treatment plan based upon your individual anatomical characteristics.

Options for Improving Breast Appearance Post-Explant

You can choose to pursue either surgical or non-surgical methods to enhance shape, lift, or volume. Your skin quality, the length of time you had the implants in place, and your desired outcome will help identify the most suitable method for achieving the results you want.

Breast Lift Options

A breast lift (mastopexy) removes extra skin, repositions the breast tissue and nipple to a higher, more firm position. Depending on how much lift you require, surgeons frequently utilize a variety of techniques including vertical, crescent, and/or anchor incisions. If you had large implants or had the implants for extended periods of time, you may require additional skin to be removed to prevent excessive sagging after the implants have been removed.

You can also elect to perform a lift in combination with fat grafting if you want to restore a more natural fullness to your breasts without the use of new implants. Performing both procedures concurrently may extend the duration of your surgery and subsequent recovery, however, it may produce a more symmetrical shape and projection. Discuss scar patterns, anticipated nipple positioning and achievable projection for your specific anatomy.

Non-Surgical Methods

While non-surgical alternatives may offer some benefit, none will significantly reverse sagging. Fat transfer is one alternative and allows you to utilize your own fat to plump areas of your breasts; however, it typically produces less lift than an implant. Injectable fillers are rarely utilized for breast augmentation and provide minimal, temporary change. Compression garments, supportive bras, and localized physical therapy may aid in enhancing the appearance of your breasts while you heal. Radio frequency and/or laser treatments may help improve mild skin laxity, but will be far less dramatic than surgery. Discuss realistic outcomes so that your expectations align with the potential benefits offered by each option.

Individualized Attention and Treatment Options at Newman Plastic Surgery

Newman Plastic Surgery reviews your implant history, breast tissue, and skin elasticity to recommend the most beneficial course of action. You will meet with our team to discuss the different lift types, the feasibility of using fat grafting, incision locations, and the steps required for recovery.

If you are planning to remove your implants, contact us to set up a consultation to discuss the options that best fit your needs and lifestyle: https://temecula-plastic-surgery.com/breast-implant-removal/.

Our team provides pre-operative photographs, demonstrates the anticipated scar map, and outlines a recovery timeline, so you know what to expect. Our staff arranges follow-up appointments to assess your healing progress and provide support, such as garments or scar management.

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Choosing between saline and silicone breast implants can feel overwhelming, but you can make a clear choice when you focus on what matters most to your body and goals. Pick saline if you want an implant that shows a rupture right away and costs less; pick silicone if you want a more natural feel and are okay with regular imaging to check for silent ruptures.

You will learn how each implant looks and feels, what health and age rules apply, how long implants typically last, and which risks and benefits matter for your lifestyle. Talk with our team at Newman Plastic Surgery about your anatomy, budget, and aesthetic goals so you leave the consult confident about your next steps. Contact us today!

Understanding Saline and Silicone Implants

You’ll learn what fills each implant, how they feel, and key maintenance or safety differences. This helps you match an implant to your body, goals, and lifestyle.

How Saline Implants Work

Saline implants have a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water (saline) after the shell is placed in your breast. Surgeons can insert an empty shell through a smaller incision, then fill it to the precise size during surgery. That lets the surgeon make minor volume adjustments while you’re still in the operating room.

If a saline implant ruptures, the saline leaks out and your body absorbs it safely, and you’ll notice an obvious change in breast shape. Saline implants tend to feel firmer and show rippling more easily, especially if you have thin breast tissue. They often cost less than silicone and are available in smooth or textured shells.

How Silicone Implants Work

Silicone implants use a silicone shell filled with cohesive silicone gel designed to mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. The gel varies by cohesiveness; newer “gummy bear” types hold shape better and feel firmer in certain areas while still feeling soft overall. Surgeons usually insert silicone implants prefilled, so the incision may be slightly larger than for saline.

A silicone rupture may not cause obvious shape change; your surgeon will recommend periodic imaging (usually MRI or ultrasound) to check for silent ruptures. Silicone implants often look and feel more natural than saline, particularly for patients with less native breast tissue.

Common Features and Differences

• Fill: Saline = sterile salt water, Silicone = cohesive silicone gel.
• Incisions: Saline can use smaller incisions because it’s filled after placement; silicone often needs a larger incision for a prefilled implant.
• Feel and appearance: Silicone usually feels softer and more natural; saline may feel firmer and show rippling if your tissue is thin.
• Rupture detection: Saline ruptures are visible immediately; silicone ruptures can be silent and need imaging to detect.
• Cost and options: Saline implants are generally less expensive; silicone offers more gel types (including form-stable options).
• Safety and regulation: Both types use a silicone elastomer shell and are FDA-approved devices; risks and follow-up needs differ mainly by rupture behavior and imaging needs.

If you want, we can go over which points matter most for your body type and goals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Implants

You should weigh how the implants will look on your body, how they will feel, the surgical approach, and any age or health rules that affect safety and results. These points help you pick the type, size, and placement that match your goals and lifestyle.

Aesthetic Goals and Natural Look

Decide what you want your final shape to be. If you want a fuller, rounder upper breast, silicone implants often give a smoother, more natural slope. Saline implants can also look good, but they may show rippling more in thin tissue.

Think about size, projection, and how the implant sits on your chest. A photograph of breasts you like helps your surgeon know your target. You’ll also discuss placement: under the muscle often looks more natural in thinner patients, while over the muscle can give more lift but may show edges.

Bring realistic expectations. Your body type, skin elasticity, and existing breast tissue limit how large you can go without complications. At Newman Plastic Surgery, we measure your chest and try on sizers so you see possible outcomes before deciding.

Feel and Texture of Implants

Silicone implants tend to feel closer to natural breast tissue because of their cohesive gel fill. Many patients report a softer, more natural touch, especially with moderate or larger sizes.

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and can feel firmer or less natural in thin patients. They do offer a smaller incision since they’re inserted empty and then filled, which some patients prefer.

Surface texture matters too. Smooth implants move more naturally in the pocket. Textured implants aim to reduce movement but have specific risks to discuss with Dr. Newman. Ask about gel cohesiveness, shell thickness, and how each type behaves with your body type.

Incision Options and Surgical Techniques

Your incision affects scarring, implant placement, and recovery. Common incision sites include inframammary (under the breast fold), periareolar (around the nipple), and transaxillary (in the armpit). Each has pros and cons for visibility and access.

Inframammary gives the most direct access and precise pocket control. Periareolar can hide scars along the nipple edge but may carry a higher risk of affecting nipple sensation. Transaxillary avoids breast scars but can limit placement options.

Decide on submuscular (under the pectoral muscle) versus subglandular (over the muscle) placement. Submuscular placement can reduce visible rippling and mammogram interference. Subglandular can give a stronger upper pole fullness but may show edges if tissue is thin.

Age and Health Requirements

You must meet FDA age and health guidelines. For saline implants, FDA approval starts at 18 years. For silicone implants, FDA approval typically starts at 22 years for cosmetic augmentation. These ages help ensure physical maturity.

Your overall health matters. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, certain autoimmune conditions, or a high body-mass index can increase surgical and healing risks. You’ll need a full medical history, current medications, and possibly lab tests before surgery.

Plan for screenings and follow-up. Silicone implants often require periodic MRI or ultrasound checks for silent rupture. Saline ruptures are obvious because the implant deflates. Discuss routine monitoring and long-term care with our team so you know what follow-up looks like.

Risks, Benefits, and Longevity

You’ll weigh safety, recovery, and how long implants last when choosing. Think about rupture risk, feel and appearance, follow-up needs, and likely timelines for replacement.

Safety and Potential Complications

Both saline and silicone implants carry risks like infection, bleeding, scarring, and capsular contracture (hardening around the implant). Silicone gel can cause a silent rupture that may not show symptoms, so imaging (MRI or ultrasound) is recommended periodically. Saline ruptures are obvious because the implant deflates, and the saline is harmlessly absorbed by your body.

You also face risks from surgery itself: anesthesia reaction, poor wound healing, and asymmetry. Implants can affect mammogram images, so you’ll need specialized views and to inform your radiologist about your implants. Rarely, textured implants have been linked to a lymphoma (BIA-ALCL); discuss implant surface type with your surgeon.

Recovery Experience and Maintenance

Initial recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks for basic activity, with more strenuous exercise cleared after 4–6 weeks. Pain and swelling are common the first week; you’ll use pain meds, wear a support bra, and follow wound care instructions. Silicone implants often feel more natural and may have less visible rippling, which can reduce the need for early revision for cosmetic reasons.

Maintenance differs: silicone users need periodic imaging (MRI every 3–5 years is often suggested) to check for silent rupture. Saline users don’t need routine imaging for rupture but should monitor shape and firmness. Both types require regular follow-up visits; if you notice changes in size, shape, pain, or firmness, contact the clinic promptly.

Expected Lifespan of Each Type

Implants are not lifetime devices. Many patients keep implants 10–20 years before replacement or removal, but individual results vary. Silent silicone ruptures can occur sooner, which is why imaging matters; saline ruptures are detected immediately and typically corrected when they happen.

Common reasons for replacement include rupture, capsular contracture, cosmetic changes, or implant aging. Revision rates rise with time, so plan for possible future surgery. At Newman Plastic Surgery, we help you track your implants and schedule checks so you know when intervention might be needed.

Personal Consultation and Next Steps

A one-on-one visit helps match implant type to your body, goals, and lifestyle. You will review risks, recovery, and follow-up plans so you leave with a clear, personalized plan.

Why Individualized Guidance Matters

Your chest shape, skin thickness, and daily activities affect whether saline or silicone fits you best. For example, if you have little natural breast tissue, a silicone implant often gives a more natural contour, while saline can allow for smaller incisions and adjustable fill during surgery.

We also consider long-term needs like mammogram compatibility and routine monitoring. Silicone implants usually require periodic imaging to check for silent rupture; saline ruptures are obvious right away. Cost and warranty differences matter too—ask about implant lifetime coverage and revision policies at Newman Plastic Surgery.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Expect a 45–60 minute visit with our patient coordinator and Dr. David A. Newman. We begin with medical history, prior surgeries, and current medications. Then Dr. Newman examines your chest, measures breast width and skin laxity, and discusses realistic size options.

You’ll review implant styles (shape, profile, texture), incision sites, and placement (above or below the muscle). We’ll show photos of real patient results and use sizing tools so you can visualize outcomes. Finally, our team outlines the surgical plan, anesthesia, recovery timeline, and cost estimate.

Questions to Ask Dr. Newman

Prepare a short list so you cover safety, results, and recovery. Useful questions include:

• Which implant type and size do you recommend for my goals and why?
• Will implants be placed above or below the muscle for my body?
• What incision location gives the best scar and result for me?
• What are the specific risks and how often do complications occur in your practice?
• What is the expected recovery timeline and activity restrictions?
• How do you handle implant rupture, capsular contracture, or revision surgery?
• What are total costs, financing options, and warranty coverage?

Bring photos of looks you like and a list of medications. That helps Dr. Newman give precise, tailored advice for your best outcome.

Ready to book your consult?

Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss a breast augmentation procedure with Dr. Newman. 

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If you’re considering breast implant removal, you likely want a clear sense of what will change and what side effects to expect. You can expect common, usually temporary effects like pain, swelling, and changes in breast shape, plus possible emotional ups and downs; most people recover well with proper care.

This article will walk through typical physical and emotional symptoms, how long recovery often takes, signs of complications, and when to call your surgeon. You’ll also learn how removal can change breast appearance and sensation, what to expect during each stage of healing, and practical tips to manage symptoms.

If you’re near Murrieta, Temecula, or Menifee and want a professional consultation, contact Newman Plastic Surgery to discuss your options with our team and schedule an appointment.

Common Side Effects After Breast Implant Removal

After implant removal, expect changes in your breasts’ shape, feeling, and skin. You may have swelling, bruising, pain, and new scars that need time and care to improve.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling is common and usually peaks in the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery. Your breasts and chest may feel tight; this can make clothes fit differently for several weeks. Use prescribed compression garments and follow dressing instructions to reduce swelling faster.

Bruising often appears around the incision sites and under the breast. It can range from light yellow to dark purple and usually fades over 2 to 3 weeks. Cold packs during the first 48 hours help limit bruising, then switch to gentle warm compresses if advised by your surgeon.

Monitor for unusual signs like increasing redness, severe heat, or expanding bruises, as these could signal infection or bleeding. 

Pain and Discomfort

You will feel soreness where the implants and capsule were removed. The pain is usually moderate the first few days and eases with prescribed pain medicine and rest. Move gently to prevent stiffness, but avoid heavy lifting and straining for the period your surgeon recommends.

Sharp twinges or shooting pains can occur as nerves heal. These nerve sensations often lessen over weeks to months. If pain grows worse or new severe pain appears, call our clinic so we can check for complications like infection or a hematoma.

Follow a pain plan: take medication on schedule at first, use ice packs for short periods, and sleep with pillows to elevate your upper body slightly. Keeping a pain diary helps you and Dr. Newman track recovery and adjust care if needed.

Scarring

Incision scars form where the surgeon removed the implant and capsule. Early scars look red or pink and may feel raised. Over 6–12 months, scars usually flatten and fade but will not disappear completely.

Scar outcome depends on incision placement, your skin type, and how well you follow wound care. Keep incisions clean, avoid sun exposure, and use silicone sheets or gels if recommended. These measures reduce thickness and discoloration.

If scars become wide, keloid, or painful, treatments such as steroid injections, laser therapy, or minor revisions can improve their appearance.

Changes to Breast Appearance

You may notice several visible changes to your breasts after implant removal. Expect differences in shape, size, and skin tightness that depend on implant size, how long implants were in place, and your skin’s elasticity.

Altered Breast Shape

Your breasts might look different right after surgery. Some breasts appear deflated or flattened where the implant once pushed outward. Others can develop folds, creases, or a less rounded contour, especially if the implant sat above the natural breast tissue for years.

Scarring or capsule changes can also affect shape. The fibrous capsule that forms around an implant may tighten or collapse when the implant is removed, which can pull the breast inward or make it sit lower on the chest wall. This effect is more likely with larger implants or long-term implants.

If you had asymmetry before, removing implants can make differences more noticeable. A breast lift or fat grafting are common options we discuss at Newman Plastic Surgery to recontour and balance the breasts after explant.

Loss of Volume

You will likely lose breast volume after explant, especially if your implants were large compared to your natural tissue. The outer size of the breast will decrease and may not match what you remember before augmentation.

Natural breast tissue and fat don’t always expand to fill the space. That can leave a hollowed or sunken look near the lower pole or outer breast. The degree of volume loss depends on implant size, your original breast tissue, and how long the implants were in place.

We often offer fat grafting or combined lift-and-graft procedures to restore some fullness. These choices let you replace volume using your own tissue rather than new implants.

Skin Laxity

Skin laxity means loose, stretched skin after the implant is gone. If the implant stretched the skin for years, the tissue may not snap back fully. You may see pendulous breasts, downward-pointing nipples, or excess skin folds.

Elasticity varies by age, genetics, weight changes, and smoking history. Younger skin with good elasticity often tightens more than older, less elastic skin. Small implants or short implant duration may result in minimal laxity.

A mastopexy (breast lift) removes extra skin and repositions breast tissue and nipples. At Newman Plastic Surgery near Temecula and Menifee, Dr. David A. Newman can evaluate your skin and recommend the right procedure to reshape and lift your breasts.

Contact Newman Plastic Surgery in Murrieta to schedule a consultation about breast implant removal and options to restore your breast shape.

Physical Sensations and Symptoms

You may feel a range of different sensations after implant removal. Expect changes in numbness, tingling, and areas of increased sensitivity as nerves and tissues heal.

Numbness or Tingling

You might notice numbness around the incision, the nipple, or the lower breast. This happens because nerves were stretched or cut during implant removal. Numbness often improves over weeks to months, but some areas can stay less sensitive for a year or longer.

If you had larger implants or a capsulectomy, numbness can be more pronounced. Light touch, temperature, and sexual sensation may feel different at first. Use gentle massage only if your surgeon approves. Report sudden, worsening, or spreading numbness to the clinic; this could mean nerve irritation or another issue needing evaluation.

Increased Sensitivity

Increased sensitivity can show up as sharp twinges, burning, or hypersensitivity to light touch. This occurs when nerves regenerate and send stronger signals as they heal. The feeling can come and go and may be most noticeable at the incision or nipple.

Over-the-counter pain relief, cold packs early on, and wearing a soft, supportive bra can reduce discomfort. If sensitivity causes constant pain, interrupts sleep, or lasts beyond a few months, contact your surgeon or health care provider. 

Emotional and Psychological Effects

You may notice changes in mood, self-image, and emotional energy after implant removal. These shifts can be short-lived or last months, and they often come with relief, grief, or mixed feelings about your body and recovery.

Mood Changes

You might feel relief if you had pain, swelling, or worry linked to your implants. That relief can come quickly, but some people also report sadness, anxiety, or low energy in the weeks to months after surgery. Hormone shifts, sleep loss from pain, and the stress of recovery all affect mood.

Watch for signs of depression: persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, or trouble sleeping beyond the normal recovery window. Talk therapy, checking medications, and light exercise can help. If you have intense or worsening symptoms, contact your primary care provider or a mental health professional.

Body Image Adjustment

Your breasts will likely look and feel different after explantation. Skin laxity, asymmetry, or changes in nipple position are common. You may need time to get used to the new shape and how clothes fit.

Practical steps can help: compression garments during healing, a professional bra fitting, or considering reconstructive options if you want more volume or symmetry. Support groups and counseling at local clinics can make adapting easier. 

Recovery Timeline

You will feel changes each day after surgery. Expect a clear early phase of soreness and rest needs, then gradual tissue and shape changes over months.

Immediate Recovery

You will leave the surgery center with dressings and sometimes a surgical bra or compression garment. Plan for 24 to 72 hours of significant pain and fatigue. Pain drops quickly with prescribed or over‑the‑counter meds, but you should avoid heavy lifting and raising your arms for at least 1 to 2 weeks.

Swelling and bruising peak around days 2 to 5. Keep follow‑up appointments so your surgeon can check wounds and remove drains or sutures if used. Most patients take about two weeks off work if their job involves physical tasks; desk work may be possible sooner.

Watch for signs of infection (fever, increasing redness, heavy drainage) and contact the clinic immediately if these occur. You will get specific wound‑care and activity rules to protect healing and reduce complications.

Long-Term Healing Process

The shape and softness of your breasts continue to change for months after implant removal. Scar tissue inside the breast may take 3 to 6 months to soften, and sometimes longer if you had a capsulectomy. Expect gradual decreases in swelling and slow improvement in contour over 3 to 12 months.

Nipple or skin sensation can take months to return, and some changes may be permanent. If you had a simultaneous lift or fat grafting, those tissues follow their own timeline for settling and firmness. Keep scheduled follow‑ups so the team can track healing and suggest revision options if needed.

Potential Complications

You may face a few specific problems after implant removal that can affect healing and your final result. Knowing what to watch for helps you act quickly and get medical care when needed.

Infection

Infection can occur at the incision or deeper around the implant capsule. Signs include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, persistent pain, fever over 101°F, or foul drainage from the wound. If you notice these symptoms within the first week or later, call the clinic right away.

Treatment often starts with oral antibiotics and wound care. If the infection is severe or does not respond, your surgeon may need to remove infected tissue or clean the wound in the operating room. Early treatment usually prevents long-term problems like delayed healing or more scarring.

To lower your risk, follow your post-op instructions: keep incisions clean and dry, avoid soaking in baths or pools until cleared, take prescribed antibiotics, and attend follow-up visits with your surgeon. 

Hematoma Formation

A hematoma is a collection of blood under the skin that forms when small vessels bleed after surgery. You might feel a tight, painful swelling that appears within 24–48 hours, or a growing pocket of bruising over several days. Hematomas can increase tension on the incision and slow healing.

Small hematomas sometimes settle on their own with rest, ice, and compression. Larger or expanding hematomas usually require prompt drainage in the office or operating room to prevent tissue damage or infection. Your surgeon will decide based on size, pain, and how quickly it’s growing.

To reduce this risk, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements before and after surgery unless your provider says otherwise, follow activity limits, and report any sudden swelling or increased pain to your surgeon or healthcare provider. 

When to Contact Your Surgeon

You should contact your surgeon or healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following:

• Fever over 101°F, increasing redness, or pus at incision sites
  These can be signs of infection and need prompt medical attention.

• Sudden or worsening pain that doesn’t improve with prescribed medication
  Severe pain may indicate a complication such as a hematoma or an issue with the implant pocket.

• Uneven swelling, new lumps, or unusual firmness in one breast
  These changes can signal fluid buildup or a seroma that may require treatment or drainage.

• Shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or fainting
  These symptoms could point to a serious reaction or blood clot and require immediate care.

• Heavy, bright red drainage or drains that stop working properly
  Your provider can determine whether you need evaluation or adjustments to your care plan.

• Questions about wound care, activity limits, or medication side effects
  Your healthcare team can guide you or schedule a follow-up visit if needed.

If you’re ever unsure whether a symptom is normal, it’s best to contact your surgeon or healthcare provider for guidance. They can help determine whether you need same-day care or a routine follow-up.

Contact Newman Plastic Surgery for Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

If you are considering breast implant removal, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. David A. Newman at our Murrieta office. We serve patients from Murrieta, Temecula, and Menifee and will review your history, goals, and any concerns.

During your visit, we will discuss possible side effects after implant removal and the steps to reduce risks. You will get clear information about recovery time, scar care, and options for revision or reconstruction if you want them.

Bring any prior operative reports or imaging you have. That helps us plan safer, more personalized care and answer specific questions about your case.

We keep appointments focused and respectful of your time. Our team will explain costs, scheduling, and what to expect on the day of surgery in plain language.

Contact Newman Plastic Surgery today to arrange your breast implant removal consultation.

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