Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy Santa Monica, CA
Breast augmentation can offer beautiful, confidence-boosting results, but it’s completely natural for some individuals to consider removing their implants as time goes on. For many, lifestyle changes or shifts in personal preferences can lead to a desire for a more natural look. Others may be experiencing implant-related discomfort or medical concerns that make breast implant removal or capsulectomy the right next step.
Women from across Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and surrounding areas visit board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Safa Sharabi for her thoughtful guidance and expert care when they’re ready to explore this option. Whatever is driving you toward considering breast implant removal or capsulectomy, Dr. Sharabi provides a safe, supportive, and highly personalized approach.
To learn more about breast implant removal or capsulectomy with Dr. Safa Sharabi in Santa Monica, contact our office by calling (310) 692-8626 or complete our online form and schedule your consultation in Santa Monica today.
What Is a Breast Implant Removal Surgery & Capsulectomy?
Breast implant removal, also known as breast explant surgery, is a procedure that involves the removal of breast implants along with the scar tissue capsule that naturally forms around them. Unlike breast augmentation, which focuses on adding volume or shape to breasts, implant removal and capsulectomy are centered around safely and strategically returning the breasts as close as possible to their natural size, contour, and feel. For many women, this procedure offers relief from discomfort, a return to a natural, modest aesthetic, or a solution to implant-related concerns.
As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Sharabi brings advanced training, surgical precision, and a deeply patient-centered approach to every breast implant removal she performs. Whether your decision is driven by medical reasons, cosmetic preference changes, or lifestyle changes, Dr. Sharabi is committed to ensuring your procedure is performed with the highest level of safety, care, and attention to detail.
Procedures That Can Be Combined with Breast Implant Removal
After having implants for years, a common concern that Dr. Sharabi faces from her patients is stretched out skin or deformity, particularly if implants were large or have been in for ten years or longer. After breast explantation, the breasts can return to their pre-augmentation size, shape, or condition, but if you have explant surgery and realize afterwards that you aren’t completely satisfied with the appearance of your breasts, you can discuss these additional procedures with Dr. Sharabi.
Breast Implant Exchange
A breast implant exchange is exactly how it sounds; it’s exchanging your current breast implants with another to make up volume after implant removal. After removing the old, damaged, or unwanted implant types, Dr. Sharabi will insert new breast implants into the healthy breast pocket to maintain or achieve your desired enhancement.
Breast Lift
A breast lift involves Dr. Sharabi removing excess skin and reshaping the remaining tissue for a contoured breast shape. A breast lift can also address any breast laxity and shifted nipple placement for more youthful-looking breasts after implant removal.
Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting
Breast augmentation with fat grafting uses liposuction to extract fat from a secondary location, purify it, and inject it into the breasts. This is an excellent option for women who want a subtle increase in their breast size and who would prefer natural measures to artificial devices.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy in Santa Monica, CA
Ideal candidates for breast implant removal and capsulectomy are individuals who want to return to their natural breast size and shape or those who are experiencing a medical concern, such as rupture, leakage, implant shifting, or capsular contracture. Patients should be in good overall health with no current medical conditions that could put them at risk of complications or hinder their recovery. Patients who no longer feel comfortable or satisfied with the size of their current breast implant size are excellent candidates. The goal of breast implant removal is to help you embrace a life of comfort and reach your ideal aesthetic goals.
What to Expect During Your Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy Consultation?
Your consultation with Dr. Sharabi is designed to be an informative, supportive, and collaborative experience from the start. When you arrive at her Santa Monica practice, you’ll meet with Dr. Sharabi and her team, who will guide you through a comprehensive overview of breast implant removal and capsulectomy. This is your opportunity to openly discuss your concerns.
During this visit, Dr. Sharabi will explain the different surgical approaches, the role of the scar tissue capsule, and what outcomes you can realistically expect. You’ll have time to ask questions, express concerns, and explore whether implant removal, capsulectomy, or a combination of procedures best aligns with your goals.
Some women elect to remove the capsules, while others elect to have them removed, and Dr. Sharabi will walk you through the important differences between the two options. You’ll also learn about anesthesia options, recovery timelines, and how to prepare for surgery so you feel fully informed moving forward.
Female Plastic Surgeon
Why Choose Dr. Safa Sharabi for Your Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy in Santa Monica, CA?
As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Sharabi has extensive experience performing complex explant procedures, including full and partial capsulectomies, and is known for her thoughtful patient-centered approach. What sets Dr. Sharabi apart is her commitment to individualized treatment planning. She takes the time to understand your goals, your symptoms, and your surgical history so she can design a plan that aligns with your health, comfort, and desired aesthetic outcome.
Patients also appreciate her dedication to natural-looking results. Dr. Sharabi focuses on restoring balance and harmony to the chest while prioritizing long-term breast health. Her gentle, precise techniques help minimize scarring, support smooth healing, and create outcomes that help you feel authentically you.
How Is Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy Performed in Santa Monica, CA?
When you arrive at the fully accredited surgical facility, you’ll be welcomed by a care team, checked in, and situated in a comfortable room where you will be prepared for your procedure. Just before surgery, Dr. Sharabi will meet with you to review the details of your personalized breast implant removal and/or capsulectomy plan. She will carefully mark the areas on your breasts where she intends to place incisions and remove the implants and capsule.
As Dr. Sharabi marks your skin, she will walk you through her approach, including the anesthesia being used, the condition of your existing scars, how she plans to access and remove the capsule, and what you can expect during recovery. This final conversation ensures you feel fully informed, supported, and fully prepared before entering the operating room.
Once your anesthesia is administered, Dr. Sharabi will begin the procedure. Depending on the specifics of your procedure, breast implant removal or capsulectomy typically takes one to two hours. During surgery, she will carefully remove the implants and address the surrounding scar tissue, tailoring her technique to your proportions and goals. Once the implants and capsules have been removed, your incisions will be closed and dressed to help minimize swelling. You’ll be monitored closely in recovery before being released into the care of a trusted friend or family member.
Breast Implant Removal & Capsulectomy Recovery
Recovery after breast implant removal or capsulectomy is described as being similar to the recovery you experienced following your initial breast augmentation. Generally, patients experience minor swelling and bruising around the incisions that resolve after a few days.
Recovery after implant removal typically takes no longer than 1 to 2 weeks. We recommend that patients take at least 1 to 3 days off from work, but longer if they have an active profession that requires heavy lifting, excessive movement, or standing on one’s feet for long periods of time. Dr. Sharabi’s post-operative protocol is extremely hands-on and attentive to ensure your health, safety, and general well-being are prioritized.
Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Surgery & Capsulectomy with Dr. Safa Sharabi Today
To learn more about having your breast implants removed or addressing capsule contracture in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, or surrounding areas, contact Dr. Safa Sharabi at (310) 692-8626 or by completing our online form and scheduling your consultation. We believe every woman deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their body. If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or are facing discomfort from your current implant, Dr. Sharabi and her team can help!
Breast Implant Removal FAQS
Will my breasts look deflated after implant removal?
Breast appearance after implant removal varies from person to person, but many women experience temporary looseness or flattening as the tissues adjust. Dr. Sharabi will discuss options such as a breast lift or a fat grafting procedure to help restore shape and contour if desired.
Can I combine breast implant removal with a breast lift?
Yes, many patients choose to combine implant removal with a mastopexy, or breast lift, to improve firmness, elevate the breast position, and enhance overall shape. Dr. Sharabi will help you determine whether combining procedures is the best approach for your health and goals.
Is breast implant removal covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies, but some plans may contribute if removal is medically necessary due to pain, capsular contracture, rupture, or other complications. Dr. Sharabi’s team can guide you on what documentation may be helpful when speaking with your provider.
How do I know if I need a full capsulectomy or a partial capsulectomy?
The need for a full or partial capsulectomy depends on factors like implant condition, capsule thickness, symptoms, and your overall health. During your consultation, Dr. Sharabi will evaluate your anatomy and recommend the safest, most effective approach.
Can breast implant removal improve symptoms like pain or tightness?
Yes. Many women experience relief from chest tightness, discomfort, or pressure after implant removal or capsulectomy, especially when symptoms are related to capsular contracture or implant complications. Dr. Sharabi will help determine whether removal may address your concerns.
Does Dr. Sharabi work with implant manufacturer warranties?
Yes, Dr. Sharabi and her team frequently work with implant manufacturers to determine if the implants are under warranty.