Is Breast Implant Removal Painful?

You won’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, mild to moderate discomfort is common during the recovery period. Patients may experience swelling, tightness, and soreness in the chest as the body adjusts. Dr. Lugo provides post-operative care instructions to help manage discomfort, which may include taking pain medication, applying cold compresses, and limiting physical activity. Most patients note significant improvement within the first week, with pain gradually subsiding over the following weeks.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The number of appointments required depends on your specific case and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, are involved. Typically, patients can expect an initial consultation to discuss their goals, medical history, and surgical options, then a pre-operative appointment in Athens to finalize the plan and ensure they’re medically cleared. After the procedure, follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns. Most patients require at least 2 to 3 follow-up appointments.

How Long Until I See Results?

Initial improvements are noticeable immediately after surgery, but the final results develop gradually as swelling subsides and the tissues settle. Most patients see a significant change within the first few weeks, with final results becoming apparent around 3 to 6 months post-surgery. If additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are performed, the timeline for full results may vary. Dr. Lugo ensures that each patient receives a personalized recovery plan to aid in healing and achieve the most natural-looking appearance.

Can I Combine Breast Implant Removal With Other Procedures?

Yes, breast implant removal can often be combined with other procedures. Most commonly, patients choose to undergo a breast lift (mastopexy) at the same time to address any sagging and restore a more youthful contour. Procedures such as nipple repair or areola reduction can be performed to enhance symmetry and refine the overall appearance of the breasts. Additionally, some patients opt for implant replacement if they wish to maintain volume but with a different size or material. Dr. Lugo will assess your goals during your consultation and recommend the best approach.

What Are the Risks Associated With Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal carries some risks, though they are minimized when performed by an experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Lugo. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast shape or sensation, and fluid accumulation (seroma). In some cases, patients may experience skin laxity or loss of volume, particularly if they have had implants for many years. However, additional breast lifts or fat transfer procedures can help address these concerns.

Breast Implant Removal

Name: Lugo Plastic Surgery
Brand: Lugo Plastic Surgery
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (159 reviews)

Breast Implant Removal in Athens, GA

Introduction

Breast Implant Removal in Georgia

Undergoing breast implant removal is a common choice, so if you’ve had any concerns about it, DON’T! Sometimes, patients decide they no longer like the aesthetic look of their implants and want to revert to their natural size. At other times, patients may opt to replace their implants with a simple lift. For some, removing implants may be medically necessary due to concerns such as capsular contracture, implant illness, implant rupture, or other issues. The process can be emotional and sensitive for some—this is completely normal. Dr. Lugo, in Athens, GA, takes procedures such as breast implant removal very delicately and ensures that her patients receive the best care with results that feel true and natural to them.

What is Breast
Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal is designed to extract previously placed breast implants. During the surgery, Dr. Lugo carefully removes the implants and, if necessary, addresses surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy) to ensure optimal healing and comfort. The procedure can be performed on its own or in tandem with other treatments, such as a breast lift (mastopexy) to restore a natural, lifted appearance or fat grafting to add subtle volume and contour.

Patients seek implant removal for various reasons, including implant complications like capsular contracture, rupture, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with their appearance over time. Whether you wish to return to a more natural look or need to replace aging implants, Dr. Lugo customizes each procedure to your unique goals and anatomy.

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What Are the Benefits of Breast Implant Removal?

Removing breast implants can offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. Most commonly, patients change their minds about the aesthetic they want to achieve and decide to remove their implants. This allows their breasts to revert to their original size and shape and may offer more comfort while wearing bras or certain clothing. It’s also common to remove implants and have a lift done to maintain a “perky” look.

Functionally, breast implants may be removed due to medical concerns. While rare, implant illness, capsular contracture, asymmetry, or other problems can still occur when having implants done, especially if your original surgeon was not board-certified or experienced. Removing the implants may be medically necessary and can offer relief from discomfort or moderate to severe pain.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Breast Implant Removal?

Candidates for breast implant removal are individuals in Athens, GA, the greater Oconee County area, and beyond who either want to change their aesthetic look or are experiencing problems related to their implants. If you’re interested in simply changing your look, whether that be going back to your natural breast size, lifting them, or changing the implants altogether, you would be a good candidate. If you are experiencing any pain, discomfort, or other symptoms relating to your breast implants, you will also qualify for the procedure. The first step is to consult with a professional, such as Dr. Lugo, as soon as possible.

What’s the
first step?

When thinking about having your breast implants removed, the first thing you should do is consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Lugo takes consultations both virtually and in her Athens, GA, office, working with patients across the region to make their journey as accessible as possible. In this consultation, she will thoroughly review your concerns related to your implants, including any medical issues you’re experiencing, your past medical history and surgeries, and your ultimate goals. She’ll examine your breasts, if in person, to map out incision placements and whether additional surgeries need to be performed, such as a breast lift. Once you agree with the plan, your surgery and pre-operative appointments can be scheduled.

Quad A

Dr. Lugo believes every patient deserves the highest quality of care, which is why Lugo Plastic Surgery is accredited by QUAD A. This nonprofit, physician-founded and physician-led organization has partnered with thousands of healthcare facilities to raise and standardize the quality of care. Through its accreditation programs, QUAD A helps practices like ours demonstrate a strong commitment to patient safety while ensuring consistent, exceptional standards.

QUAD A officially recognizes facilities that have met 100% of its high standards. Accreditation assures the public that patient safety is the top priority. An accredited facility is re-evaluated through a yearly self-survey and an onsite survey every three years. Facilities must continuously comply with all QUAD A accreditation standards between surveys.

Our accreditation certificate signifies that Lugo Plastic Surgery, as an office-based surgery center, has consistently demonstrated the highest level of care and safety in meeting or exceeding all applicable state and federal guidelines.

What to Expect on the Day of Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Dr. Lugo will review the surgical plan with you one final time, ensuring that all your questions are answered. If all you are doing is removing implants, the procedure can be performed not only under general anesthesia but also awake under local anesthesia. This will depend on patient preference and/or medical comorbidities.

Dr. Lugo will remove the implants and any scar tissue during the procedure if necessary. If additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, are planned, they will be performed at this time under general anesthesia to enhance your final results. The surgery typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Once the procedure is complete, you’ll be carefully assessed in the recovery area before being released to the care of a friend, family member, or responsible adult who will drive you home.

Breast Implant Removal
Recovery

Recovery after breast implant removal varies depending on whether additional procedures are performed. Most patients experience swelling, soreness, and mild discomfort for the first few days to a week, which can be well managed with prescription pain medications. A supportive surgical bra may be recommended to minimize swelling and promote healing.

Many patients can return to light activities within a week, although strenuous workouts and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Over the next few months, residual swelling will subside, and your final results will gradually become more visible. Dr. Lugo will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure you’re progressing as expected.

How Much Does Breast Implant Removal Cost in Athens, GA?

The cost of Breast Implant Removal in Oconee County and Athens is, on average, around $4,000 before facility, anesthesia, medicine, and other fees. The total price will also be influenced by the reputation of the practice and the surgeon performing the procedure. The complexity of breast implant removal varies from individual to individual, so the exact cost of your procedure will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Lugo. She’ll ensure full transparency before moving forward and providing you with financing solutions if needed. In some cases, if removing breast implants is medically necessary, insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your plan.

Why Choose Dr. Lugo?

Dr. Liana M. Lugo, founder and medical director of Lugo Plastic Surgery, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped numerous individuals accomplish their cosmetic goals. Dr. Lugo brings a woman’s perspective and qualities to help her patients achieve excellent outcomes.

Breast Implant Removal FAQ’S

You won’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, mild to moderate discomfort is common during the recovery period. Patients may experience swelling, tightness, and soreness in the chest as the body adjusts. Dr. Lugo provides post-operative care instructions to help manage discomfort, which may include taking pain medication, applying cold compresses, and limiting physical activity. Most patients note significant improvement within the first week, with pain gradually subsiding over the following weeks.
The number of appointments required depends on your specific case and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, are involved. Typically, patients can expect an initial consultation to discuss their goals, medical history, and surgical options, then a pre-operative appointment in Athens to finalize the plan and ensure they’re medically cleared. After the procedure, follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns. Most patients require at least 2 to 3 follow-up appointments.
Initial improvements are noticeable immediately after surgery, but the final results develop gradually as swelling subsides and the tissues settle. Most patients see a significant change within the first few weeks, with final results becoming apparent around 3 to 6 months post-surgery. If additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are performed, the timeline for full results may vary. Dr. Lugo ensures that each patient receives a personalized recovery plan to aid in healing and achieve the most natural-looking appearance.
Yes, breast implant removal can often be combined with other procedures. Most commonly, patients choose to undergo a breast lift (mastopexy) at the same time to address any sagging and restore a more youthful contour. Procedures such as nipple repair or areola reduction can be performed to enhance symmetry and refine the overall appearance of the breasts. Additionally, some patients opt for implant replacement if they wish to maintain volume but with a different size or material. Dr. Lugo will assess your goals during your consultation and recommend the best approach.
Breast implant removal carries some risks, though they are minimized when performed by an experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Lugo. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast shape or sensation, and fluid accumulation (seroma). In some cases, patients may experience skin laxity or loss of volume, particularly if they have had implants for many years. However, additional breast lifts or fat transfer procedures can help address these concerns.

5.0

Patient Reviews

I cannot say enough wonderful things

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Lugo and her amazing staff. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine warmth and kindness that immediately puts you at ease. Dr. Lugo is not only incredibly knowledgeable and skilled in her field, but she also takes the time to truly listen, explain, and make sure you feel comfortable with every step of the process.

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Dr. Lugo is incredible

I am extremely satisfied with Dr. Lugo’s services. Dr. Lugo is incredible. You can truly see the care and perfection she puts into her work. I am absolutely thrilled with the results of my procedure. After leaving Dr. Lugo’s consultation, I was completely convinced to go through with the surgery. She made me feel confident, and I had no doubts about choosing her.

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My results were life-changing

Words cannot begin to describe my absolute pleasure with Lugo Plastic Surgery. First and foremost, Dr. Lugo is so thorough and genuinely cares about her patients and her work. Each and every single staff member has always been so kind and willing to help with anything needed. The office is nice and clean, appointments run on time, and not a long wait. My results were life-changing for me, and I couldn’t have chosen a more caring, compassionate, and professional surgeon if I tried.

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Dr. Lugo has been great!

Dr. Lugo has been great! From my very first consultation to my surgery, she was very thorough in explaining the process and answered any questions I had before I could ask them! The surgery went so well and I’m very pleased! She is sweet, kind, and great at her job! Can’t recommend her enough

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Dr. Liana M. Lugo is truly phenomenal

Dr. Liana M. Lugo is truly phenomenal. From my very first consultation, I felt an instant connection with her. She is not just a surgeon—she’s a healer, a creator, and a perfectionist in her craft. After my myomectomy, I was left with severe scarring from previous doctors who had mishandled my procedure. Dr. Lugo completely transformed my results, correcting the scarring from previous procedures and leaving me with a beautifully refined and natural-looking result.

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Testimonials

Schedule a Consultation

Whether due to discomfort or simply a change in aesthetic preference, consulting with Dr. Lugo is the best first step in the implant removal process. To schedule an online or in-person visit at our Athens, GA, office, please call (706) 707-5854 or complete the online contact form today.

@drlianamlugo

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