On the day of your breast implant removal or exchange surgery in Miami, you will be warmly welcomed by Dr. Valina and her expert surgical team, who will help you get settled and review the procedure with you to ensure you feel completely at ease. A board-certified anesthesiologist will then administer general anesthesia, allowing you to remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
Once you are fully sedated, Dr. Valina will begin by making carefully planned incisions to access the breast implants. The incision technique and placement depend on several factors, including the type of implants you have, any previous surgical scars, and the natural contours of your chest. Common incision sites include the inframammary fold (under the breast), around the areola, or through the original incision used during your initial augmentation.
If you are undergoing a breast implant removal, Dr. Valina will gently extract the implants and assess the surrounding breast tissue. In some cases, she may also remove the capsule (scar tissue around the implant), particularly if it has thickened or is causing discomfort. If no further procedures are needed, she will then carefully close the incisions with sutures.
For those opting for a breast implant exchange, Dr. Valina will insert the new implants and ensure they are correctly positioned for the most natural and aesthetically pleasing result. The pocket where the implant sits may also be adjusted to accommodate the new implants better. Once the implants are securely in place, she will close the incisions with dissolvable or removable sutures, depending on your specific surgical plan.
To aid in healing and minimize swelling, Dr. Valina may place drainage tubes (if necessary) to prevent fluid buildup and will provide you with a compression bra to support your breasts during recovery.
On average and without complications, breast implant removal/exchange in Miami at Grace Surgical Arts can take anywhere from one to three hours.