Last updated: May 11, 2026
Breast implant removal is one of the fastest-growing cosmetic procedures in the United States, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. Whether motivated by health concerns, lifestyle changes, or evolving aesthetic preferences, more patients are exploring explant surgery and the restorative options that follow. This guide covers the data behind the trend, what the procedure involves, recovery expectations, and what comes next.
How Fast Is Breast Implant Removal Growing as a Procedure?
Breast implant removal is the fastest-growing surgical cosmetic procedure tracked since 2015, with a 46.3% overall increase over a five-year period according to a 2024 study published in PubMed (PMID: 39103642). This growth rate outpaces every other tracked surgical procedure, signaling a significant shift in patient priorities across the cosmetic surgery landscape.
To put that growth in context, the top surgical cosmetic procedures have remained relatively stable for years – liposuction, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, abdominoplasty, and rhinoplasty continue to dominate. What makes implant removal notable is not that it has overtaken these procedures in total volume, but that its rate of increase is unmatched.
What Do the Latest Statistics Say About Explant Surgery?
The numbers paint a clear picture of momentum. The following table summarizes key data points from recent industry and academic sources.
| Metric | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Breast implant removal growth (5-year) | 46.3% increase | PubMed, PMID 39103642 (2024) |
| Breast augmentation procedures (global, 2023) | 293,359 | ISAPS 2023 data |
| Breast lift procedures (global, 2023) | 139,016 | ISAPS 2023 data |
| Breast lift annual growth rate | ~7% per year | Industry reporting |
These figures reveal that while augmentation remains a high-volume procedure, the growth in removal and lift procedures reflects patients increasingly prioritizing revision, restoration, and natural outcomes over initial augmentation.
Is Breast Augmentation Still the Most Popular Breast Procedure?
Yes, breast augmentation remains among the most performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide, with 293,359 procedures reported by ISAPS in 2023. However, the rapid growth of implant removal suggests that the patient journey no longer ends at augmentation. Many women who received implants in the 2000s and 2010s are now reaching a decision point about replacement or removal, creating a secondary wave of demand for explant and revision procedures.
Why Are So Many Women Choosing to Remove Their Breast Implants?
Women choose breast implant removal for a combination of health concerns, implant aging, lifestyle evolution, and shifting aesthetic preferences. No single factor dominates the decision. Instead, patients frequently cite multiple overlapping reasons, including symptoms they attribute to their implants, a desire for a more natural appearance, and the practical reality that implants are not lifetime devices.
What Is Breast Implant Illness and Could It Be Causing Your Symptoms?
Breast implant illness (BII) refers to a range of patient-reported symptoms that some women associate with their silicone or saline implants. Common complaints include chronic fatigue, brain fog, joint and muscle pain, sleep disturbances, and autoimmune-like symptoms. BII is not currently classified as a formal medical diagnosis, and research into its mechanisms is ongoing.
Despite the lack of a definitive diagnostic framework, growing patient advocacy and increasing physician acknowledgment have made BII a significant driver of explant consultations. Many surgeons, including board-certified plastic surgeons experienced in explant procedures, take these symptom reports seriously and discuss removal as a reasonable option for affected patients.
Do Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced or Removed After a Certain Number of Years?
Breast implants are durable but not permanent. Most manufacturers and the FDA recommend monitoring implants regularly, with the general understanding that implants typically last between 10 and 20 years. The FDA recommends that patients with silicone gel-filled implants receive MRI screenings starting at 5 to 6 years after surgery and every 2 to 3 years thereafter to check for silent ruptures.
Many women who received implants during the augmentation boom of the early 2000s and 2010s are now within or past that replacement window. Faced with the prospect of a second surgery, a growing number are choosing removal rather than replacement – especially when their aesthetic goals or lifestyle have changed since the original procedure.
How Have Beauty Standards Changed to Favor Natural-Looking Results?
Cultural preferences in breast aesthetics have shifted meaningfully over the past decade. The trend toward natural-looking results is reflected in both surgical choices and search behavior. A PMC study analyzing search trends found statistically significant increases (P<0.000) in searches for breast reduction and mastopexy, correlating with social media's influence on aesthetic awareness.
Celebrity explant stories, wellness culture, and a broader movement toward body acceptance have all contributed to normalizing implant removal. Social media platforms have given patients direct access to before-and-after experiences shared by other women, reducing stigma and increasing confidence in the decision to go natural.
What Happens During a Breast Implant Removal Procedure?
Breast implant removal is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, typically lasting one to three hours depending on complexity. The surgeon removes the implant through an incision – often using the original augmentation scar – and may also remove the surrounding scar tissue capsule. The approach varies based on each patient’s anatomy, implant condition, and whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously.
What Is En Bloc Capsulectomy and Do You Need One?
En bloc capsulectomy is a surgical technique in which the implant and the entire surrounding scar tissue capsule are removed together in one intact piece. This approach is often requested by patients concerned about BII or capsular contracture, as it aims to remove all foreign material and associated tissue at once.
Not every patient requires en bloc capsulectomy. A standard explant with partial or total capsulectomy may be appropriate when the capsule is thin, uninflamed, and the implant is intact. The decision depends on individual clinical findings, and a board-certified plastic surgeon can recommend the best approach during a consultation.
Can Breast Implant Removal Be Combined with Other Procedures?
Yes, many patients combine explant surgery with complementary procedures in a single session. The most common combination is breast implant removal with mastopexy (breast lift), which addresses the skin laxity that often results from years of implant stretching. Fat transfer to the breast is another option for patients who want modest volume restoration without new implants. Combining procedures reduces total anesthesia exposure and consolidates recovery time.
What Does Recovery from Breast Implant Removal Look Like?
Recovery from breast implant removal generally takes two to six weeks for most patients, with the initial one to two weeks involving the most significant activity restrictions. Many patients report that explant recovery is shorter and less uncomfortable than their original breast augmentation, particularly when no additional procedures are performed alongside the removal.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover from Explant Surgery?
The following timeline offers a general framework, though individual recovery varies based on procedure complexity and whether combined surgeries are performed.
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1-3 | Most discomfort, swelling, and bruising; prescription pain management; rest required |
| Days 4-7 | Transition to over-the-counter pain relief; light walking encouraged; compression garment worn |
| Weeks 2-3 | Return to desk work and light daily activities; driving typically resumed |
| Weeks 4-6 | Gradual return to exercise; most swelling resolved; final results beginning to take shape |
| Months 3-6 | Breast tissue continues to settle; scars maturing; full results visible |
For patients planning around summer schedules, booking a consultation now allows time to schedule surgery and complete the most restrictive recovery phase before fall activities resume.
What Will Your Breasts Look and Feel Like After Implant Removal?
Post-explant appearance depends on several individual factors: the size and type of implants removed, how long they were in place, the amount of natural breast tissue present, skin elasticity, and patient age. Patients who had larger implants for many years may experience more noticeable skin laxity, while those with smaller implants or good skin quality may see results closer to their pre-augmentation appearance.
It is normal for breasts to appear deflated or loose in the first weeks after removal. Breast tissue typically remodels over three to six months. Many patients find that the final outcome is more natural and comfortable than they anticipated, especially when realistic expectations are set during the consultation process.
What Are Your Options After Breast Implant Removal?
Patients who undergo breast implant removal have several restorative options ranging from no additional procedures to surgical lifts, fat transfer, and non-surgical skin tightening. The right choice depends on individual anatomy, aesthetic goals, and whether the patient wants to restore volume, improve shape, or simply allow the body to heal naturally after explant.
Is a Breast Lift the Best Way to Restore Shape After Explant?
Mastopexy (breast lift) is the most commonly performed companion procedure to implant removal. ISAPS reported 139,016 breast lift procedures globally in 2023, with the procedure growing at approximately 7% annually. A breast lift repositions the nipple, removes excess skin, and reshapes remaining breast tissue to create a firmer, more youthful contour.
Good candidates for post-explant mastopexy include patients with moderate to significant skin laxity, those who had large implants, and patients whose skin elasticity has diminished with age. The procedure can be performed during the same surgical session as the explant, reducing the need for a second surgery.
Can Fat Transfer Replace Breast Implants for a Natural Look?
Autologous fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat – harvested via liposuction from areas like the abdomen, flanks, or thighs – to add volume to the breasts after implant removal. This approach produces natural-looking and natural-feeling results without introducing a foreign device.
Realistic expectations are important. Fat transfer typically provides a one to two cup size increase at most, and not all transferred fat survives (retention rates generally range from 60% to 80%). For patients seeking modest volume restoration with the most natural possible result, fat transfer is an excellent option. For those desiring larger volume, implant exchange may be more appropriate.
What Regenerative and Non-Surgical Treatments Can Help After Removal?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has highlighted regenerative aesthetics as a growing trend for 2026. Non-surgical treatments that can complement surgical explant include radiofrequency skin tightening, ultrasound-based devices, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. These treatments aim to improve skin quality, stimulate collagen production, and enhance overall chest contour without additional surgery.
At practices like Skinsational Cosmetic Surgery Clinic (Skinrio), which combines plastic surgery with med spa capabilities, patients can access both surgical and non-surgical post-explant care under one roof. This integrated approach allows Dr. Luciano Sztulman and the clinical team to create comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s recovery and aesthetic goals. Readers interested in these options can explore non-surgical skin tightening and regenerative treatments available at Skinrio.
How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in 2026?
Breast implant removal costs in 2026 typically range from $4,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether a capsulectomy is performed, and whether additional surgeries like a breast lift or fat transfer are combined. Pricing includes surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-operative care. A personalized consultation at Skinsational Cosmetic Surgery Clinic provides an accurate quote based on individual needs.
Key factors that influence the final cost include:
- Type of capsulectomy (partial, total, or en bloc)
- Combined procedures (mastopexy, fat transfer)
- Anesthesia duration and type
- Surgical facility fees
- Pre-operative imaging or lab work
- Post-operative garments and follow-up visits
Does Insurance Cover Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
Insurance coverage for breast implant removal is limited and typically applies only when medical necessity is documented. Circumstances that may qualify include ruptured implants, capsular contracture causing pain or deformity, and documented complications requiring surgical intervention. Cosmetic explant – removal for aesthetic preference without medical complications – is generally not covered.
Patients who believe they may have a medically necessary case should contact their insurance provider before surgery and request a pre-authorization review. Documentation from the surgeon detailing clinical findings, imaging results, and symptom history can support the case. Many practices also offer financing plans for patients covering out-of-pocket costs.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
Good candidates for breast implant removal include women experiencing implant-related symptoms, those with aging implants approaching or past the 10-to-20-year lifespan, patients whose aesthetic preferences have changed, and individuals seeking to simplify their long-term health maintenance. Candidates should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about post-explant appearance.
Age plays a role in both candidacy and outcomes. Research indicates that surgical interest patterns vary by age group, with patients aged 51 to 64 and those over 65 showing different engagement levels with cosmetic procedures. Younger patients tend to have better skin elasticity and may achieve more favorable results without additional procedures, while older patients may benefit from combining explant with a lift or skin tightening treatments.
Should You Remove Your Implants If You Are Not Experiencing Symptoms?
Proactive implant removal – removing implants that are not currently causing symptoms – is a personal decision that depends on implant age, monitoring findings, and individual comfort level. Patients with implants older than 10 to 15 years may choose proactive removal to avoid potential future complications such as silent rupture or capsular contracture.
For patients without symptoms and with normal imaging results, watchful waiting with regular monitoring is a reasonable alternative. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help weigh the benefits of proactive removal against the option of continued surveillance, taking into account the patient’s age, health, and long-term goals.
Why Are Men Also Seeking Breast Reduction Surgery in Greater Numbers?
Male breast reduction surgery for gynecomastia is experiencing significant growth, with search interest for male breast surgery showing a statistically significant increase (P<0.000) according to PMC research analyzing cosmetic procedure search trends. Gynecomastia surgery removes excess breast tissue and fat to create a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
The increase in male patients reflects broader cultural acceptance of cosmetic procedures for men and reduced stigma around seeking treatment. Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal imbalances, certain medications, weight fluctuations, or genetics. For readers interested in a deeper comparison of surgical and non-surgical approaches to enlarged breast treatment, Skinrio has published a detailed guide on surgical vs. non-surgical options for gynecomastia and breast reduction.
How Should You Choose a Surgeon for Breast Implant Removal?
Choosing a surgeon for breast implant removal requires verifying board certification in plastic surgery, confirming specific experience with explant procedures, reviewing before-and-after photos of explant patients, and evaluating whether the practice offers comprehensive post-removal options including breast lifts, fat transfer, and non-surgical treatments. A practice that provides both surgical and med spa services can support the full spectrum of post-explant care.
Based on treating patients with a wide range of implant histories, experienced explant surgeons understand that no two cases are identical. The implant type, placement (above or below the muscle), duration, and condition of the capsule all influence the surgical approach. Dr. Luciano Sztulman at Skinsational Cosmetic Surgery Clinic brings this comprehensive perspective to every explant consultation, ensuring patients receive individualized surgical plans.
What Questions Should You Ask During Your Explant Consultation?
Arriving at your consultation with a prepared list of questions ensures you gather the information needed to make a confident decision. Key questions include:
- Are you board-certified in plastic surgery, and how many explant procedures do you perform annually?
- Do you recommend en bloc capsulectomy, total capsulectomy, or partial capsulectomy for my case, and why?
- What will my breasts likely look like after removal based on my anatomy and implant history?
- Do you recommend combining my explant with a breast lift, fat transfer, or other procedure?
- What is the total cost, and what does that include?
- What is your complication rate for explant surgery?
- What does your post-operative care protocol look like?
- Can I see before-and-after photos of patients with a similar implant history to mine?
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal
Is Breast Implant Removal a Major Surgery?
Breast implant removal is considered a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, but it is typically done on an outpatient basis. Most patients go home the same day. The procedure is generally less invasive than the original augmentation, and recovery is often shorter. Complexity increases if en bloc capsulectomy or combined procedures are involved.
Can You Get New Implants After Having Old Ones Removed?
Yes, implant exchange – removing old implants and placing new ones – can be performed in a single surgical session in many cases. Some patients benefit from a staged approach, where the implants are removed first and new implants are placed after the tissue has healed, particularly if there is significant capsular contracture or infection. Your surgeon will recommend the safest approach for your specific situation.
Will Breast Implant Removal Improve BII Symptoms?
Many patients who attribute symptoms to breast implant illness report improvement after explant surgery, including reduced fatigue, clearer thinking, and decreased joint pain. However, outcomes vary, and not all patients experience complete symptom resolution. Research into BII is ongoing, and no clinical study has definitively established a causal relationship between implants and these symptoms. Patients should discuss their expectations openly with their surgeon.
How Soon Can You Schedule Breast Implant Removal This Summer?
Summer is the most popular season for breast surgery consultations, as many patients plan procedures around vacation time and aim to complete recovery before fall social events and activities. At Skinsational Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, consultation appointments are typically available within one to two weeks, with surgical scheduling dependent on procedure complexity and operating room availability. Contacting the clinic now allows time to complete evaluations, imaging, and pre-operative planning for a summer procedure date.
What Is the Difference Between Explant and Breast Reduction Surgery?
Explant surgery specifically refers to the removal of breast implants, with or without capsulectomy. Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) involves removing natural breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size in patients who have not had implants or who have naturally large breasts. While both procedures reduce breast volume, they address fundamentally different clinical situations. Some patients who have implants removed may also undergo tissue reduction if needed, but the two procedures serve distinct purposes.
What Should You Do If You Are Considering Breast Implant Removal?
The decision to remove breast implants is personal, and the growing number of patients making this choice reflects legitimate health, aesthetic, and lifestyle considerations – not a passing trend. Whether you are experiencing symptoms, approaching the end of your implants’ expected lifespan, or simply ready for a change, understanding your options is the most important first step.
The key takeaways from current data are clear: implant removal is growing faster than any other cosmetic surgical procedure, recovery is manageable, and patients have more restorative options after explant than ever before – from breast lifts and fat transfer to regenerative non-surgical treatments.
If you are considering breast implant removal in 2026, Dr. Luciano Sztulman and the team at Skinsational Cosmetic Surgery Clinic (Skinrio) offer comprehensive consultations that cover your surgical options, post-explant restoration, and personalized recovery planning. With both surgical expertise and med spa capabilities, Skinrio supports patients through every phase of the explant journey. Reach out to schedule your consultation and take the next step with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast implant removal cost in 2026?
Breast implant removal typically costs between $4,000 and $10,000 or more in 2026. The final price depends on the type of capsulectomy performed, whether additional procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer are combined, anesthesia duration, facility fees, and pre-operative imaging. A personalized consultation provides the most accurate cost estimate based on individual surgical needs.
How long does it take to recover from breast implant removal?
Most patients recover from breast implant removal within two to six weeks. The first one to three days involve the most discomfort and swelling. Patients typically return to desk work and light activities by weeks two to three, with a gradual return to exercise by weeks four to six. Full results, including tissue settling and scar maturation, become visible around three to six months.
What is en bloc capsulectomy and is it necessary?
En bloc capsulectomy is a technique where the surgeon removes the breast implant and the entire surrounding scar tissue capsule together in one intact piece. It is often requested by patients concerned about breast implant illness or capsular contracture. Not every patient requires en bloc removal – a standard explant with partial or total capsulectomy may be appropriate when the capsule is thin and the implant is intact.
Will my breast implant illness symptoms improve after explant surgery?
Many patients who attribute symptoms to breast implant illness report improvement after removal, including reduced fatigue, clearer thinking, and decreased joint pain. However, outcomes vary and not all patients experience complete symptom resolution. Research into breast implant illness is ongoing, and no clinical study has definitively established a causal link between implants and these symptoms.
What will my breasts look like after implant removal?
Post-explant appearance depends on the size and type of implants removed, how long they were in place, natural breast tissue volume, skin elasticity, and age. Breasts may appear deflated or loose in the first weeks, but tissue typically remodels over three to six months. Patients with smaller implants or good skin quality often see results closer to their pre-augmentation appearance.
Can breast implant removal be combined with a breast lift or fat transfer?
Yes, breast implant removal is commonly combined with a breast lift or autologous fat transfer in a single surgical session. A breast lift addresses skin laxity by repositioning the nipple and removing excess skin. Fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat to restore modest volume – typically one to two cup sizes – without a new implant. Combining procedures reduces total recovery time.
Does insurance cover breast implant removal surgery?
Insurance coverage for breast implant removal is limited and generally applies only when medical necessity is documented. Qualifying circumstances may include ruptured implants, capsular contracture causing pain or deformity, and documented surgical complications. Cosmetic explant performed for aesthetic preference alone is typically not covered. Patients should request pre-authorization and provide clinical documentation from their surgeon.
