Common reasons for implant surgery
- Capsular contracture — a firm, sometimes painful breast with a changed shape
- Implant rupture, sometimes found only on MRI or ultrasound
- Malposition — an implant that has moved too high, too low or to the side
- Rippling or visible implant edges
- Symptoms you associate with your implants, or the wish to be implant-free
- Concern about textured implants and BIA-ALCL
- Implant
- Pectoralis muscle
- Ribs
- Muscle cover
Capsular contracture
The body forms a thin layer of scar tissue — the capsule — around every implant. In some women it thickens and tightens. This is graded from I to IV (Baker classification): from a soft, natural breast to a hard, painful and visibly distorted one. Grades III and IV usually need surgery, typically removal of the capsule and a new implant or removal without replacement.
Rupture and imaging
Modern cohesive-gel implants usually keep their shape when the shell ruptures, so a rupture may cause no symptoms ("silent rupture"). Ultrasound or MRI confirms the diagnosis. A ruptured implant is generally removed together with any leaked gel and the surrounding capsule.
Surgical options
- Exchange — a new implant, often in a new pocket or with a different size.
- Total capsulectomy — removal of the implant and the entire capsule.
- En bloc removal — implant and capsule removed together in one piece, for example after rupture or when BIA-ALCL is suspected.
- Removal with a lift — the skin envelope is tightened after the implant is taken out.
- Removal with fat transfer — some of the lost volume is restored with your own fat.
- Thickened capsule
- Implant inside its capsule
The breast after implant removal
After removal, the breast is usually smaller and may look empty or loose, especially if the implants were large or in place for many years. Planning a lift or fat transfer in the same operation — or a few months later — helps restore a natural shape.
- Implant and capsule
- Skin tightened, natural volume
Recovery
Implant removal or exchange usually involves a day-case discharge or one night in hospital. Drains may be used after capsulectomy. Most patients return to desk work within one to two weeks.
- 01Common reasonsContracture · Rupture · Malposition
- 02OptionsExchange · Capsulectomy · En bloc
- 03After removalLift or fat transfer
- 04Stay in IstanbulAbout 5–7 days
Implant removal and exchange in Istanbul
Many patients who contact us had their implants placed in another country. With your implant card, operative notes and recent imaging, the operation — exchange, capsulectomy or removal with a lift — can be planned before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How much does breast implant removal cost in Turkey?
The cost depends on whether the capsule is removed, whether new implants, a lift or fat transfer are planned and the hospital stay. A quote follows the review of your implant details and imaging.
Can implants be removed without replacing them?
Yes. Implants can be removed permanently, often combined with a lift or fat transfer to restore a natural shape.
Should my implants be removed if they have no problems?
Implants that cause no problems do not need routine removal, but regular check-ups are recommended. Removal is always an option if you no longer wish to have them.
I had implants placed abroad. Can they be treated in Istanbul?
Yes. Please send your implant card or operative notes, any recent ultrasound or MRI and photographs, so that the operation can be planned before you travel.
Is the capsule always removed?
Not always. Whether the capsule is removed, partly or completely, depends on its thickness, the reason for surgery and safety considerations.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Fatih Kılıç, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon. This page is for general information and does not replace an individual consultation.