Breast implant removal is performed on women who experience implant-related complications or are unhappy with the cosmetic appearance of their augmented breasts. There are several techniques used for breast implant removal; one of the most popular is En Bloc capsulectomy.
What Is En Bloc Implant Removal?
En bloc implant removal is the process of removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue in one piece.
When an implant is placed into the body, the body reacts by forming a layer of scar tissue around it. This capsular tissue is a natural defense barrier between the object and the surrounding breast tissue.
During an en bloc capsulectomy, the capsular tissue that has formed around the implant is separated from the breast tissue, allowing it to be removed in one piece. This method prevents ruptured silicone implants or bacteria from leaking into the body.
When Should You Consider En Bloc Implant Removal?
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is the primary and most common reason for breast implant removal and breast implant revision. This condition occurs when the capsular tissue develops around the implant too tightly, causing physical pain and aesthetic distortion of the breasts. En bloc implant removal is ideal for this situation as both the implant and the scar tissue are removed.
Breast Implant Rupture
Silicone breast implants are typically the longer-lasting and more robust implant choice; however, they are not permanent and not immune to damage or rupture. En bloc implant removal is essential for ruptured silicone implants since it removes the implant before the contents can leak out into the body.
While older silicone implants were made of a thinner silicone gel that could pass through the tissue capsule, newer implants consist of a thicker, more cohesive gel that remains inside the capsule.
Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness is the generalized name for a group of symptoms experienced by a small number of women with breast implants. These symptoms, believed to be associated with the breast implants, are similar to symptoms experienced by patients with an autoimmune disease and include fatigue, memory loss, joint or muscle pain, and brain fog.
While no research currently shows implants can cause these symptoms, some women choose breast implant removal to remedy these effects.
What Should I Expect?
Procedure
Breast implant revision with en bloc capsulectomy is an outpatient procedure that is usually performed within two hours. This operation may be longer than your initial augmentation surgery depending on the extent and difficulty of the implant removal.
Scars
An en bloc capsulectomy often utilizes your initial augmentation incision to minimize visible scarring. However, removing both the capsular tissue and implant in one piece requires this incision to be longer than the initial implant incision.
Recovery
Recovery from your en bloc capsulectomy is often shorter and more manageable than the recovery from your initial augmentation. Most patients heal quickly and feel good enough to return to work within one week of the operation. Drains after your explant may or may not be necessary. Your surgeon will provide proper care instructions.
Will You Need to Combine Procedures?
Implant removal with the en bloc technique is performed as a standalone procedure for qualifying patients. Occasionally, some women would benefit most from a combination of an en bloc explantation and an additional breast surgery.
Revision Augmentation
Revision augmentation is performed for women who removed their implants via the en bloc method but still wish to maintain enhanced volume. Revision augmentation returns the volume to the breasts through the implantation of a new implant or fat grafting.
Breast Lift
A breast lift may be appropriate for women who chose to remove their implants permanently. This is more likely with women who had implants that were very large or for a long period of time since they are more likely to experience breast sagging. This procedure will remove excess skin and tighten the underlying glandular tissues.
Are You a Candidate for En Bloc Implant Removal?
En bloc is beneficial for women wanting to remove their silicone implants temporarily or permanently.
Women interested in this technique should be in good health, at a stable weight, and not smoke. While this is the preferred method of removal for many, en bloc may not be appropriate for women whose capsule is thin, delicate, or connected to vital tissues.
Dr. Batra of Coastal Plastic Surgeons in San Diego is trained in en bloc explantation. For more information, or to set up a consultation, contact Coastal Plastic Surgeons by calling (858) 365-3558 or by filling out our online contact form.