Breast Implant Removal in Orange county

Many women who undergo breast augmentation enjoy their implants for years. However, circumstances change—whether due to lifestyle shifts, medical concerns, or personal preference—and breast implant removal becomes the right choice. At our Orange County practice, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Farbod Esmailian specializes in breast implant removal surgery (explant surgery) with over 26 years of surgical experience and a commitment to natural, aesthetically pleasing results.

Dr. Esmailian understands that explant surgery is a deeply personal decision. Whether you're seeking removal due to breast implant illness, capsular contracture, implant rupture, or simply a desire to return to your natural breast appearance, he provides compassionate, expert care tailored to your unique goals and medical history.

What Is Breast Implant Removal Surgery?

Breast implant removal surgery, also called explant surgery, involves the surgical extraction of previously inserted saline or silicone implants. This procedure is often performed as part of a breast revision and may include removal of scar tissue (capsule) that has formed around the implant, a process known as capsulectomy.¹

Dr. Esmailian performs breast implant removal as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, typically lasting 1-3 hours depending on the complexity of your case. The procedure can be performed alone or combined with complementary surgeries such as breast lift (mastopexy), fat transfer, or liposuction to achieve your aesthetic goals.

Key Points About the Procedure:

Performed under general anesthesia for patient comfort and safety
Outpatient surgery—you return home the same day
Incisions typically placed along original augmentation scars to minimize new scarring
Can be combined with breast lift, fat grafting, or other procedures
Customized approach based on your individual anatomy and goals

Why Women Choose Breast Implant Removal

Motivations for seeking implant removal vary widely. Dr. Esmailian works with each patient to understand their specific concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both medical and aesthetic considerations.

Common Reasons for Breast Explant Surgery:

Lifestyle Changes

Discomfort from larger, fuller breasts that feel too heavy at the current stage of life
Breasts interfere with personal activities, particularly for active women
Desire to return to natural breast size and appearance

Aesthetic Dissatisfaction

Dissatisfaction with breast augmentation results
Undesirable implant positioning or asymmetry
Desire to switch to different implant size, shape, or type
Preference for natural breast appearance

Medical Concerns

Experiencing signs or symptoms associated with breast implant illness (BII)
Capsular contracture causing firmness, irregular shape, or discomfort
Implant rupture with silicone or saline leakage
Chronic pain or other complications

Medical Issues Requiring Breast Implant Removal

Certain medical conditions may necessitate breast implant removal surgery. Dr. Esmailian evaluates each patient's medical history and current symptoms to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESS (BII)

Breast implant illness is a rare condition in which a patient's body adversely reacts to breast implants. When no other medical conditions can be identified as the cause of symptoms, a diagnosis of BII may be given. Symptoms can include fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, and autoimmune-like reactions.

While the medical community continues to study BII, many patients report symptom improvement following explant surgery.² Dr. Esmailian takes patient concerns seriously and works collaboratively to determine whether implant removal is the appropriate treatment option.

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE

Excess scar tissue can form around a breast implant, creating a capsule that compresses the implant and causes tension in surrounding tissues. This can result in:

Breast firmness or hardness
Irregular breast shape
Implant positioned higher on the chest
Discomfort or pain³

Treatment Options:

En Bloc Capsulectomy

A total capsulectomy is a surgical procedure in which Dr. Esmailian removes the breast implant and the entire scar tissue capsule as one complete unit. This technique minimizes disruption to surrounding breast tissue and reduces the risk of capsular contracture recurrence. After capsule removal, patients have the option to undergo fat transfer, breast lift, or other complementary procedures to optimize results.

Open Capsulotomy

During an open capsulotomy, Dr. Esmailian carefully cuts open the scar tissue capsule through small incisions. A portion of the capsule is often removed or opened to relieve compression and restore a more natural breast contour.

IMPLANT RUPTURE

An implant rupture occurs when a breast implant develops a tear or hole in its outer shell, leading to leakage of silicone or saline and deflation of the breast. Symptoms may include:

Sudden changes in breast shape or size
Swelling or pain
Changes in breast firmness
Visible deflation (saline implants)⁴

To address implant rupture, Dr. Esmailian performs implant removal or replacement to restore the breast's natural contour and ensure your health and aesthetic goals are maintained.

BREAST IMPLANT-ASSOCIATED ANAPLASTIC LARGE CELL LYMPHOMA (BIA-ALCL)

BIA-ALCL is a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that can develop in the scar tissue around breast implants. The FDA estimates the risk at approximately 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 30,000 implants, with most cases associated with textured implants.⁵

Symptoms may include persistent swelling, pain, firmness, fluid accumulation, or lumps in the breast or armpit. If you experience these symptoms, Dr. Esmailian will perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging and biopsy if needed.

If BIA-ALCL is diagnosed, breast implant removal (explant surgery) is the primary treatment. Dr. Esmailian specializes in en bloc capsulectomy, which removes the implant and surrounding scar tissue capsule as one complete unit.

OTHER MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS

Additional issues that may warrant breast implant removal include infection, chronic pain, necrosis (tissue death), or other complications that compromise your health or comfort.

Preparing For Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth surgical experience and optimal recovery. Dr. Esmailian provides detailed preoperative instructions tailored to your individual needs.

Preoperative Guidelines:

Medications

Discontinue blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin) as directed by Dr. Esmailian
Inform Dr. Esmailian of all medications and supplements you take
Continue essential medications unless otherwise instructed

Lifestyle

Avoid smoking for at least 4 weeks before surgery to promote better healing
Limit alcohol consumption
Maintain a healthy diet and stay well-hydrated

Logistics

Arrange transportation to and from surgery—you cannot drive after general anesthesia
Plan for a support person to assist you during initial recovery
Organize help at home for the first few days post-surgery

Fasting

Follow all fasting guidelines if general anesthesia will be used (typically nothing after midnight the night before surgery)

Medical History

Provide complete medical history, including previous surgeries, allergies, and current health conditions
Discuss any concerns or questions with Dr. Esmailian during your consultation

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Dr. Esmailian conducts breast implant removal surgery with precision and attention to detail, customizing the approach based on your individual anatomy and goals.

Surgical Steps:

1. Anesthesia Administration

General anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

2. Incision Creation

Dr. Esmailian makes an incision, often along the same line as your original breast augmentation incision to minimize additional scarring. The incision location may vary based on implant placement and your specific needs.

3. Implant Removal

The implants are carefully removed with precision to preserve surrounding breast tissue and maintain natural contours.

4. Capsule Management

Any scar tissue (capsule) that has formed around the implants may be excised (removed), a process known as capsulectomy. Dr. Esmailian determines the appropriate level of capsule removal based on your medical history and aesthetic goals.

5. Incision Closure

Incisions are closed with sutures, and the area is bandaged to support healing.

6. Drainage Tubes (When Needed)

Some patients receive temporary drainage tubes to prevent fluid accumulation during initial healing.

Dr. Esmailian

Why Choose Dr. Farbod Esmailian For Breast Implant Removal?

Board-Certified Expertise

Dr. Esmailian is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, ensuring he meets the highest standards of surgical training and expertise. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

Extensive Experience

With over 26 years of surgical experience, Dr. Esmailian has performed thousands of breast procedures, including complex implant removals, capsulectomies, and revision surgeries. His deep expertise allows him to handle even the most challenging cases with confidence and precision.

Specialized Training

Medical Degree: George Washington University School of Medicine
General Surgery Residency: University of Southern California (USC/LAC+USC Medical Center)
Plastic Surgery Residency: Indiana University School of Medicine
Recognition: RealSelf Top 100 Plastic Surgeon (Orange County)

Patient-Centered Approach

Dr. Esmailian is committed to understanding each patient's unique goals and concerns. He takes time during consultations to listen, educate, and develop personalized treatment plans that align with your aesthetic and medical objectives.

Exceptional Results

Dr. Esmailian is known for delivering natural, refined results that enhance patient confidence and satisfaction. His approach focuses on:

Preserving natural breast tissue
Minimizing scarring
Achieving balanced, proportional results
Addressing both medical and aesthetic concerns

Outstanding Patient Satisfaction

Dr. Esmailian's patients consistently praise his professionalism, surgical skill, and compassionate care:

RealSelf: 5.0/5 stars (151 reviews)
Yelp: 4.6/5 stars (100 reviews)
US News & World Report: 5.0/5 stars (327 reviews)
Healthline FindCare: 4.7/5 stars (31 reviews)

Hospital Affiliations

Dr. Esmailian is affiliated with MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center and the MemorialCare health system, ensuring access to state-of-the-art surgical facilities and comprehensive patient care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL?

Ideal candidates for breast explant surgery are those who:

Are in overall good health
Are non-smokers or able to quit at least 4 weeks before surgery
Have realistic expectations about post-removal breast appearance
Are motivated by personal preference, medical concerns, or lifestyle changes
Have completed their family planning (if considering future breast augmentation)⁶

During your consultation, Dr. Esmailian will evaluate your medical history, current health status, and goals to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.

WHAT IS THE COST OF BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL?

The cost of breast implant removal varies depending on several factors:

Complexity of the surgery (simple removal vs. capsulectomy)
Whether complementary procedures are performed (breast lift, fat transfer, liposuction)
Surgical facility fees
Anesthesia fees
Post-operative care

To obtain an accurate cost estimate tailored to your individual needs, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Esmailian. During this appointment, we can discuss your goals and provide transparent pricing information.

CAN I COMBINE OTHER PROCEDURES WITH BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL?

Yes, many patients benefit from combining breast implant removal with complementary procedures to enhance overall results and achieve their aesthetic goals. Common combinations include:

Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy) - Reshapes and lifts the breasts, especially beneficial if sagging has occurred after implant removal
Fat Transfer (Fat Grafting) - Transfers fat from other areas of the body to enhance breast volume and contour naturally
Liposuction - Contours surrounding areas (abdomen, flanks, back) for a more balanced appearance
Areola Resizing or Repositioning - Adjusts areola size or position to complement the new breast contour
Tummy Tuck - Often combined with breast procedures for comprehensive body contouring

Dr. Esmailian will discuss which combination of procedures best aligns with your goals during your consultation.

DOES BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL HAVE ANY RISKS?

As with any surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries potential risks. These may include:

Infection
Bleeding or hematoma (blood collection)
Scarring
Changes in breast sensation (temporary or permanent)
Asymmetry between breasts
Risks associated with general anesthesia
Fluid accumulation (seroma)
Unsatisfactory aesthetic results⁷

Dr. Esmailian takes every precaution to minimize these risks through meticulous surgical technique, sterile protocols, and comprehensive post-operative care. During your consultation, he will discuss all potential risks and how he mitigates them.

WILL I HAVE VISIBLE SCARS?

Incisions for breast implant removal are typically placed along the same location as your original augmentation scars. This means no new visible scars are created. Existing scars may fade over time (12-18 months) and become less noticeable. Dr. Esmailian uses meticulous closure techniques to minimize scar visibility.

CAN I BREASTFEED AFTER IMPLANT REMOVAL?

Breastfeeding ability depends on your individual anatomy and whether milk ducts were affected during your original augmentation or removal surgery. Discuss your breastfeeding goals with Dr. Esmailian during your consultation so he can address any concerns.

WHEN CAN I RETURN TO EXERCISE?

Most patients can resume light exercise (walking) within 1-2 weeks. However, strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4-6 weeks to allow proper healing. Dr. Esmailian will provide specific guidelines based on your individual recovery progress.

Schedule Your Breast Implant Removal Consultation

If you're considering breast implant removal in Orange County, Dr. Farbod Esmailian is here to help. Whether you're seeking removal due to medical concerns, lifestyle changes, or personal preference, Dr. Esmailian provides expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Esmailian to learn more about your options.

¹ Cleveland Clinic. Breast Implant Removal. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21799-breast-implant-removal. Accessed November 20, 2025.
² Glicksman C, McGuire P, Barnes K, Shedden-Mora M, Faasse K. Systemic Symptoms Associated With Breast Implants: A Psychological Study of Beliefs and Emotions. Aesthet Surg J. 2025 Jun 25:sjaf125. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjaf125. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40557983. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40557983/. Accessed November 20, 2025.
³ U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants. Accessed November 20, 2025.
⁴ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of breast augmentation? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/safety. Accessed November 20, 2025.
⁵ U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants. Accessed November 20, 2025.
⁶ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Implant Removal Candidates. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/candidates. Accessed November 20, 2025.
⁷ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Implant Removal. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal/safety. Accessed November 20, 2025.

Page updated: December 31, 2025