Proper explant surgery is key to healing from Breast Implant Illness. Proper explant surgery would mean having your implants removed as well as the scar tissue, also known as the capsule. This scar tissue surrounds the entire implant and many times is found near the ribs, axilla and collar bone area. Many surgeons who cannot safety get to a minimal amount of scar tissue inside our chest wall, will cauterize the tissue that is left as to not allow that tissue to continue to release toxins inside.
Some surgeons will tell women that the capsule can be left to add volume to their explant results. The capsule holds toxins that have been leaching from your implants, THEY NEED TO BE REMOVED!
Some surgeons will tell women the capsule is harmless and will dissolve... The capsule DOES NOT DISSOLVE!
Total capsulectomy is the removal of the implant & then the surgeon removes all the scar tissue (capsule)
En Bloc is the removal of the implant still encapsulated by the scar tissue. This technique is ideal for someone with a known or suspected rupture and/or textured implants.
This technique is not always possible as the surgeon never knows what is going on until they open you up. This technique is also not required to fully heal from Breast Implant Illness!
It is recommended you find a surgeon willing to take photos or videos during your explant surgery. The reason for this is to show you that upon total capsulectomy or en bloc removal, all scar tissue was removed!
Every woman experiences pain differently and it is no different after explant. Some women need pain meds, others do ok with Tylenol. Some surgeons use a nerve block or a pain pump that helps with pain the first few days after surgery and other surgeons do not. Recovery and healing looks different for each of us so it is important to remember not to compare your recovery and healing to anyone else's.
After the pain subsides you may experience soreness and numbness. This is completely normal and can last weeks, to months which is also very normal. It is important to be mindful of your surgeons recommendations about when to begin lifting again. Over exerting yourself too soon can hinder your healing. Listen to your doctor and listen to your body!
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