Breast Implant Removal in Tampa, FL

Whether for health, comfort, or aesthetics—implant removal is your choice, and we’re here to help.

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Your Body, Your Decision

At Holcomb–Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Tampa, we understand that choosing to remove your breast implants can be deeply personal. Whether you're seeking relief from discomfort, addressing implant complications, or simply ready for a new look, we provide experienced, personalized care every step of the way.

Dr. Joshua Kreithen is a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced expertise in breast implant removal, including complex explant cases and en bloc capsulectomy techniques. Our goal is to restore your comfort and confidence with a plan that’s customized to your health, aesthetic, and lifestyle needs.

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What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal (also called explant surgery) is a surgical procedure that extracts breast implants and, in many cases, the surrounding scar tissue or capsule. The reasons for removal vary and often include:

Desire to return to a natural breast appearance
Implant rupture or deflation
Capsular contracture (hardened scar tissue)
Concerns related to Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Aesthetic dissatisfaction or lifestyle changes

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En Bloc Removal for Maximum Safety

For patients with textured implants or symptoms of BII, Dr. Kreithen may recommend en bloc capsulectomy, which removes the implant and surrounding capsule as one unit to limit exposure to possible contaminants or silicone leakage. This technique is especially recommended for:

Women with Breast Implant Illness symptoms
Those with textured implants linked to rare lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)
Patients with hardened or painful scar tissue

Your Surgical Options After Implant Removal

Explant Without Lift

Ideal for women with small implants and good skin elasticity. No lift is needed—Dr. Kreithen uses internal support sutures to help reshape the deflated breast.

Explant With New Implants and Lift

Some women opt for smaller implants combined with a lift for a natural but fuller result. Internal sutures can enhance cleavage and shape while minimizing visible scarring.

Explant With Lift

Best for patients with loose skin or larger implants. A breast lift (mastopexy) restores a perkier shape and prevents the "raisin effect" that can follow implant removal. Lift options may include:

Areola-only incisions
Vertical (lollipop) incisions
Traditional anchor lift, if needed

Benefits of Breast Implant Removal

Physical relief: Eliminate pain, tightness, or implant-related complications
Aesthetic freedom: Return to your natural figure or explore new proportions
Health peace of mind: Resolve capsular contracture, rupture, or BII concerns
Emotional clarity: Many women report feeling empowered and relieved after removal

What to Expect: The Procedure

Breast implant removal is typically performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia at our accredited surgical center in Tampa.

Procedure Overview:

Small incisions are made—often along the original scar
Implants and capsules are removed (en bloc when applicable)
If needed, a lift or new implant is added
Internal sutures reshape the breast if a lift isn’t performed
Incisions are closed, and a surgical bra is applied

Surgery takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether additional procedures are involved.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Immediate Recovery:

You’ll go home the same day with post-op instructions
Prescription pain meds help manage discomfort
A compression bra is worn for 3–4 weeks

Short-Term Healing:

Swelling, numbness, or bruising may last 1–2 weeks
Stitches are usually dissolvable
Most patients return to work within 5–7 days

Long-Term Healing:

Avoid heavy lifting or workouts for 4 weeks
Final results are visible once swelling fully resolves (around 6–12 weeks)

Breast Implant RemovalFrequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery time?

Most patients return to light activity within one week. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 4 weeks.

Do I need a lift after implant removal?

Not always. A lift is recommended if you have significant skin laxity or larger implants. Dr. Kreithen will guide you based on your anatomy.

Can the procedure be combined with other surgeries?

Yes. Many women combine explant with a lift, fat transfer, or even new implants for a refreshed result.

Will my breasts look normal after removal?

Yes, especially when techniques like lifting or reshaping are used. Each plan is designed to restore a natural, aesthetic appearance.

What is BII and how does it relate to implant removal?

Breast Implant Illness includes a range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog. While BII is not officially recognized as a diagnosis, many patients find symptom relief after implant removal.

What’s the difference between standard and en bloc removal?

En bloc removal takes out the implant and its capsule in one piece—recommended for certain health concerns like BII or textured implants.

Can I breastfeed after implant removal?

In most cases, yes. The ability to breastfeed is typically preserved if breast tissue and ducts are undisturbed.

Is scarring a concern?

Dr. Kreithen uses precise surgical techniques to minimize scarring and often places incisions in original scar lines when possible.

Why Choose Dr. Kreithen in Tampa?

Board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced breast surgery expertise
Specialist in en bloc and complex explant procedures
State-of-the-art accredited Tampa surgical center
Supportive, transparent consultation process

Dr. Kreithen listens to your concerns, respects your goals, and creates a plan you can feel confident in.

Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

Ready to take the next step in your journey? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kreithen to explore your breast implant removal options and receive a personalized plan tailored to your health and appearance goals.

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