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Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is a surgical procedure designed to remove breast implants from individuals who have previously undergone breast augmentation. This procedure may be sought for various reasons, including personal preference for a smaller breast size, concerns about implant-related complications, or the desire to address symptoms that patients believe are associated with their implants.
The decision to undergo breast implant removal is a personal one, and it is crucial for individuals to be well-informed about the procedure, its potential outcomes, and recovery. Explantation can be performed with or without a capsulectomy, which involves removing the fibrous capsule that naturally forms around the implant. In some cases, a mastopexy (breast lift) may be performed concurrently to reshape and lift the breasts after implant removal, particularly if significant skin laxity is present.
Patients considering breast implant removal should have realistic expectations about the results. While the procedure can alleviate concerns related to implants and improve comfort, it is important to understand that the appearance of the breasts post-explantation will depend on individual factors such as skin elasticity, natural breast tissue volume, and the duration the implants were in place. A thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to discuss individual goals and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
There is no large patient-reported dataset for implant removal, so our figures come from published clinic and surgeon fee guides and should be treated as indicative: a median of about $12,000, with the middle half between $9,000 and $15,000 and a full range of $5,000 to $18,000. The price varies with the operation, particularly whether a partial or complete capsulectomy or a lift is added, and specialist fees often run higher than these guides. Medicare item 45548 (removal as an independent procedure) has a schedule fee of $331.25, and item 45551 (removal with at least half the capsule excised) $531.10, so rebates cover only a small part of the total.
Following breast implant removal, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. A compression garment is typically worn to help reduce swelling and provide support. Most patients can return to light, non-strenuous activities within 1-2 weeks, though heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks. The full recovery period can extend to several months as swelling completely subsides and tissues heal. Adhering to post-operative instructions is crucial for optimal healing.
As with any surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reaction to anaesthesia, changes in nipple sensation, and unsatisfactory cosmetic results. Although rare, seroma (fluid accumulation) or hematoma (blood collection) can occur. Choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon helps to minimise these risks. A thorough discussion of your medical history and potential complications will be conducted during your consultation.
Our indicative figures, from published clinic and surgeon fee guides rather than patient reports, put the median at about $12,000, with the middle half between $9,000 and $15,000 and a full range of $5,000 to $18,000. Capsulectomy or a lift adds to the cost, and specialist fees often run higher, so ask for an itemised written quote.
Sometimes. Item 45551 (removal with excision of at least half the capsule) needs a medical indication such as capsular contracture, a mass or suspected BIA-ALCL, plus histopathology. It has a schedule fee of $531.10 and a 75% benefit of $398.35, so it covers only part of the cost.
The TGA says removal is not required if you have no symptoms or concerns, because BIA-ALCL is very rare and the risk of surgery is higher than the risk of the cancer. See your doctor if you notice changes such as swelling, a lump or pain.
The TGA reports there are no confirmed cases in Australia in people with only smooth implants, and that risk increases with greater texturing. In 95% of cases it occurs three to 14 years after the implant was inserted.
Not always, but stretched skin can leave the breast looser or lower after removal. Ask your surgeon to show results for patients with implants of a similar size and duration, and get the price of removal alone and removal with a lift.
The duration of breast implant removal surgery typically ranges from 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether a capsulectomy or breast lift is performed simultaneously.
This page is general information for prospective patients researching breast implant removal in Australia. It is not personal medical advice. Clinical timing, eligibility, risks and outcomes vary: discuss your specific case with an AHPRA-registered practitioner at consultation.