En bloc capsulectomy is a surgical technique for removing breast implants along with the surrounding scar tissue capsule as a single intact unit. This method is commonly chosen when there are concerns about ruptured implants, capsular contracture, or suspected breast implant illness (BII). By removing the capsule in one piece, the goal is to minimize any potential exposure to implant contents and ensure complete removal of scar tissue. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia in the operating room. It may also include reconstruction or fat grafting depending on your desired outcome.
En bloc capsulectomy is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia. The procedure begins with carefully placed incisions, often using existing breast surgery scars when appropriate. The implant and its surrounding capsule are removed together in one piece to help minimize the risk of contamination and preserve surrounding tissue. If the capsule cannot be safely removed en bloc, a total capsulectomy may be performed instead. After removal, the breast may be reshaped through additional techniques such as a lift or fat grafting, depending on the patient’s goals. The area is then closed with sutures to support a smooth, natural-looking outcome.
En bloc capsulectomy and implant removal can address a variety of concerns related to breast implants, implant aging, and changes in breast appearance or comfort. For many patients, the procedure provides an opportunity to remove implants and surrounding scar tissue while pursuing a treatment plan that aligns with their current health and aesthetic goals.
You may be a candidate for en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal in Redding, CA, if you are experiencing implant-related concerns or have decided that breast implants no longer align with your lifestyle, comfort, or aesthetic goals. Many patients pursue implant removal due to capsular contracture, implant rupture, breast discomfort, concerns about breast implant illness, or changes in the appearance of their breasts over time.
Candidates often include individuals with aging implants, hardened scar tissue, implant malposition, or those who simply wish to return to a more natural breast appearance. During your consultation at Summit Plastic Surgery, your surgeon will review your medical history, implant history, symptoms, and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate surgical approach. Depending on your needs, implant removal may also be combined with procedures such as a breast lift or fat grafting to help optimize breast shape and contour following explant surgery.
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation to discuss your concerns, implant history, symptoms, and aesthetic goals. During this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your breast tissue, review imaging or medical records if needed, and determine whether en bloc capsulectomy or another implant removal approach is appropriate for your situation. We encourage you to visit our Meet the Team page to learn more about the experienced providers who guide patients through every stage of their surgical journey.
En bloc capsulectomy is performed under anesthesia and involves removing the breast implant and the surrounding capsule together as a single unit when clinically appropriate. Depending on your anatomy and goals, your treatment plan may also include procedures such as a breast lift or fat grafting to help restore breast shape and contour following implant removal.
Following surgery, patients can expect a recovery period with swelling, bruising, and activity restrictions as the body heals. Follow-up appointments allow your surgical team to monitor your recovery and ensure you are progressing as expected. As swelling resolves over the following weeks and months, patients typically see continued improvement in breast shape, comfort, and overall results.
Preparing for surgery is an important part of achieving a safe procedure and smooth recovery. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide personalized instructions based on your health history, implant type, and surgical plan.
Following en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal, proper post-operative care is essential for healing, comfort, and optimal results. Your surgical team will provide detailed instructions tailored to your procedure and recovery needs.
The results of en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal are considered long-lasting because the implants and surrounding capsule are permanently removed. Once recovery is complete, patients can enjoy the benefits of implant removal without the need for future implant maintenance, replacement, or monitoring associated with breast implants.
Final results continue to develop as swelling resolves and the breast tissue settles into its new shape. Factors such as skin elasticity, existing breast tissue, and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat grafting, are performed can influence the final outcome. Patients interested in viewing potential outcomes are encouraged to explore our Photo Gallery to see examples of surgical results and discuss realistic expectations during their consultation.
Depending on your anatomy, breast tissue, and aesthetic goals, implant removal can often be combined with additional procedures to help restore shape, volume, and overall breast appearance following explant surgery. These complementary treatments can be discussed during your consultation and incorporated into a personalized surgical plan.
| Procedure | Primary Purpose | Recovery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| En Bloc Capsulectomy / Implant Removal | Removes the breast implant and surrounding capsule, often as a single unit when appropriate | 2–6 weeks | Patients with implant-related concerns, capsular contracture, implant rupture, or those seeking explant surgery |
| Implant Deflation and Removal | Removes saline implants after deflation or implant failure | 2–4 weeks | Patients with saline implant complications or those choosing implant removal |
| Breast Lift (Mastopexy) | Reshapes and lifts the breasts by removing excess skin | 2–6 weeks | Patients experiencing breast sagging or skin laxity after implant removal |
| Fat Grafting to the Breasts | Uses a patient’s own fat to restore subtle breast volume | 1–3 weeks | Patients seeking natural volume enhancement without implants |
| Breast Augmentation | Enhances breast size and shape using implants or fat transfer | 2–6 weeks | Patients looking to increase breast volume and improve breast proportions |
Summit Plastic Surgery proudly serves patients seeking en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal throughout Northern California and surrounding communities. Patients travel to our practice for personalized surgical care, advanced treatment planning, and comprehensive support throughout their explant journey.
En bloc removal takes out the implant and capsule in one piece, while total capsulectomy removes them separately. The technique used depends on your anatomy and safety factors.
Candidates often include those with ruptured implants, capsular contracture, or concerns about breast implant illness. Dr. Malotky will evaluate your case during consultation.
Not always. If the capsule is tightly adhered to vital structures like the chest wall, Dr. Malotky may opt for a safe and complete total capsulectomy instead.
Some patients benefit from a lift to improve shape after removal, especially if there is excess skin or sagging. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Expect moderate swelling, tightness, and tenderness for the first two weeks. Most patients return to normal routines within two to four weeks.
The cost of en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal varies depending on factors such as surgical complexity, implant type, whether additional procedures are performed, anesthesia fees, and facility costs. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide a personalized treatment plan and detailed pricing information. Summit Plastic Surgery offers financing options through Cherry Financing, CareCredit, Alle Payment Plans, and Alle Rewards to help make treatment more accessible.
Choosing to remove your breast implants is a highly personal decision that deserves thoughtful guidance, expert surgical care, and a treatment plan tailored to your goals. Whether you are addressing implant-related concerns, seeking relief from discomfort, or simply ready for a change, en bloc capsulectomy and implant removal can help you move forward with confidence.
At Summit Plastic Surgery, our team is committed to providing compassionate care and personalized treatment recommendations throughout every stage of your journey. Visit us at 1800 Buenaventura Blvd, Suite 200, Redding, CA 96001, call (530) 638-8868, or contact us online to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options for implant removal and breast restoration.
