Though breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today, a growing number of women are opting to remove their implants. Where at one time you may have desired larger breasts, as the years pass, trends and ideals change, weight fluctuates, maybe your lifestyle is different and you no longer desire a large breast volume. For others, medical anxiety and factors such as the development or reoccurrence of capsular contracture may be the reason for desiring change. The reality is that although your breast implants could easily outlive you, and there’s no predetermined expiration date, they are not to be thought of as lifetime devices. For most, revision or maintenance is likely to be desired or needed at some point. Once your implant(s) have been in place for 10 years or more, you should consider the replacement of your implant(s) to reduce the long term risk of leakage. Replacement of an intact implant is always a simpler and less complicated procedure than replacement of a leaking implant.

In May of 2019, Health Canada suspended the sale and use of Allergan’s Biocell Textured implants due to a rare but serious risk of cancer known as BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). Although the patient risk of developing BIA-ALCL is rare, Health Canada and the FDA currently do not encourage the removal of these textured implants, unless there are symptoms suggestive of ALCL. However, many patients still desire their removal for peace of mind. The recent recall of Allergan’s Biocell textured implants applies to any unused implants that may be sitting on the shelf. If you’re considering the removal of your textured shell implants or replacing them with smooth implants, this should be discussed with an experienced breast surgeon, such as Dr. Turner, who has been using smooth round implants exclusively for primary breast augmentation for over a decade.

Dr. Turner is a Board Certified Cosmetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, serving patients since 1996. For meticulous expertise and skill, thousands have trusted their breast surgeries to Dr. Turner, making him one of the busiest and most highly sought breast surgeons in Western Canada. Whether Dr. Turner was your original breast surgeon or not, we’d be happy to provide support, recommendation and expert guidance with your decisions.

During your consultation, Dr. Turner will provide examination and recommendation based on your current anatomy and aesthetic goals.