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Ced. Prof. 3524107
A breast reduction, or reductive mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size and weight. The objective is to create a more proportionate breast size in relation to the patient's body and to alleviate the physical discomfort caused by breasts that are too large.
Breast explantation refers to the removal of breast implants, whether for medical, cosmetic, or personal reasons. It may or may not include removal of surrounding scar tissue or capsule (capsulectomy). Some women also choose a breast lift or fat transfer as part of their explantation procedure to maintain a desirable breast shape.
Although both surgeries result in smaller or lighter breasts, they serve very different purposes and involve different surgical approaches.
A breast reduction focuses on reducing the size of natural breast tissue. It is commonly performed on women who experience physical discomfort such as back or shoulder pain, skin irritation, or difficulty with physical activity due to the weight and volume of their natural breasts. During a breast reduction, the surgeon removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate breast size. Often, a breast lift is performed simultaneously to improve the final shape.
In contrast, a breast explant is the removal of previously placed breast implants during breast augmentation surgery. Women may choose explantation for a variety of reasons, including complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture, health concerns such as Breast Implant Disease (BII), or a personal decision to return to a more natural appearance. A breast lift or fat transfer during an explantation may also be recommended to restore volume and contour after removal of the implant.
Although both procedures involve remodeling the breast area, the key distinction lies in the type of tissue being removed (natural breast tissue in a reduction vs. synthetic implants in an explant) and the underlying motivation for the surgery.
The recovery time for both procedures is relatively similar, although healing may vary depending on the extent of the surgery.
Deciding between a breast reduction and an explantation depends on whether the patient has implants and the goals she wants to achieve.
If the problem is naturally large breasts that cause discomfort, breast reduction is the appropriate option.
If the concern involves implants, whether for complications or personal reasons, breast explantation is the right path.
A thorough consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ceballos can help clarify your needs and create a personalized surgical plan.
As with any surgical procedure, both breast reduction and explantation carry certain risks:
Choosing a certified surgeon with experience in breast procedures significantly reduces these risks and ensures safer and more predictable results.
One of the most common questions from patients is whether their breasts will look natural after surgery. The answer depends on the technique used and the patient's anatomy.
After a breast reduction: The result is usually smaller, lifted, and more proportionate breasts.
After an explant: The breasts may look deflated or saggy, especially if the implants were large or were in place for many years. In such cases, a breast lift or fat graft may be recommended to improve aesthetics.
A breast reduction removes natural breast tissue to reduce size, while an explant removes breast implants.
If you have implants and want smaller breasts, a combination of explantation with lifting or reduction may be recommended. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific case.
Most patients resume daily activities in 1 to 2 weeks. Full healing and final results take several months.
Yes, both of these procedures involve incisions. Scars usually fade over time and can be minimized with proper care and surgical technique.
Breast reduction and explantation are highly personalized procedures for different purposes. Whether you're looking to alleviate physical discomfort or return to a more natural breast appearance, it's essential to understand the differences and consult with a trusted expert.
Dr. Ceballos offers personalized care, extensive experience and advanced surgical techniques to ensure safe and satisfactory results for his patients.
If you're considering breast surgery and want expert guidance, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ceballos today. He will help you determine the best procedure for your goals and will provide clear and compassionate support every step of the way.
