Breast implant removal, exchange & capsulectomy in Dubai —
your options, clearly explained.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and your wishes can change. Dr Saba Al Marush removes or replaces breast implants and, where the scar capsule around an implant has tightened, removes the capsule. Surgery takes place at Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Dubai Healthcare City.
This page covers three related operations for women who already have breast implants: implant removal (explant) without replacement, implant exchange in the same pocket, and capsulectomy, the removal of the scar capsule around an implant. Which one suits you depends on why you are considering surgery, the condition of your implants and the tissue around them.
Why women consider implant surgery again.
The body forms a thin capsule of scar tissue around every implant. This is normal. In some women the capsule thickens and tightens over time, a condition called capsular contracture, which can make the breast feel firm, change its shape or cause discomfort.
Other reasons for a second operation include a ruptured or suspected ruptured implant, the wish for a different size or type of implant, the age of the implants, or simply the decision to live without them. Needing further surgery is not unusual and is not, in itself, a sign that the first operation went wrong. Read more in our guide to how long breast implants last and the breast implant revision guide.
Removal, exchange or capsulectomy.
Implant removal (explant) — The implants are taken out and not replaced. Your breasts will be smaller afterwards and, depending on your skin, your breast tissue and the size of the implants, they may look flatter or looser than before your first surgery. Dr Saba does not perform breast lifts; if a lift would be needed for the result you want, she will tell you so at your consultation. For some women, fat transfer can restore a modest amount of volume, but it does not lift the breast.
Implant exchange (same pocket) — The existing implant is removed and a new one is placed in the same pocket. Exchange can replace an older or ruptured implant, change the size, or move to a different implant such as Preservé. The position of the pocket itself is not changed in this operation.
Capsulectomy — The thickened scar capsule around an implant is removed, usually together with an exchange or a removal. When contracture affects only one breast, surgery can be limited to that side.
Is this the right operation for you?
You may wish to discuss these operations with Dr Saba if:
- one or both augmented breasts have become firm, tight, painful or changed in shape
- a scan has shown, or suggested, that an implant has ruptured
- you would like a different size or type of implant
- you would prefer to have your implants removed altogether
- you are in good general health and have realistic expectations of the result
What these operations cannot do. Removing implants does not lift the breast, and an exchange cannot correct significant sagging. A capsulectomy treats an existing contracture, but no surgeon can guarantee that a capsule will not tighten again. Dr Saba will explain honestly what is achievable for you.
From assessment to recovery.
Assessment
Dr Saba examines you, reviews your first surgery and any implant details you have, and may request imaging.
Planning
Removal, exchange or capsulectomy is chosen together with you, for one side or both, with a clear picture of the expected result.
Surgery
Performed in hospital under anaesthesia at Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Dubai Healthcare City.
Recovery
A support garment, follow-up visits and a gradual return to your usual activities, as Dr Saba advises.
What recovery involves.
Recovery depends on which operation you have. A removal or a straightforward exchange is generally lighter than an operation that includes a capsulectomy.
Swelling, tightness and bruising are expected at first and settle gradually over the following weeks. You will wear a support garment or surgical bra; Dr Saba will tell you which one and for how long. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise wait until she clears you at follow-up.
The final shape takes several months to settle, particularly after implant removal, as the skin and breast tissue adapt. Contact the clinic promptly if you notice fever, increasing pain, or swelling that is greater on one side.
Your questions, answered.
Do breast implants have to be replaced every 10 years?
What will my breasts look like after implant removal?
Can I change my implant size at the same time?
What is capsular contracture?
Can only one breast be treated?
Can fat transfer replace my implants?
Related procedures.
