Implant removal is often necessary if complications arise such as leaking, infection, or capsular contracture (when the tissue around the silicone shell constricts, making the breast hard). Other women find that their implants have changed shape or shifted position over time, resulting in asymmetry, or that they chose the wrong size. Regardless of the reason, removal is an important, and often times emotional decision.

Capsular contracture is one of the main reasons for removal. Capsular contracture is when the tissue around the implant constricts, causing the breast to harden and look tight or squeezed. Scar formation causes it, and infection may be a likely contributors. The condition can occur in one or both breasts and the severity can range from mild discomfort to causing intense pain and visible abnormalities.

There are surgical procedures and massage techniques that can help, but some women find it simpler to either replace or completely remove the devices. After removal, the breast will return to the natural shape and soften. However, if you choose replacement, there is no guarantee that capsular contracture will not return. Using a different method of placement can also help prevent its recurrence.

Other complications, like leaking and infection, will also require removal. A leak or rupture can take years to notice, but symptoms include asymmetry, swelling, pain, or other irregularities. Most plastic surgeons will recommend immediate removal to prevent further damage.

As long as the breast tissue isn't damaged by the leak, replacing the implants is often possible. Infections normally occur shortly after the surgery and are characterized by excessive pain and a fever. If this happens, the implant will need to be removed and cannot be replaced until the infection is clear and the body is healthy again.

An equally common decision is the preference for a different implant size, either smaller or larger. Sometimes women are conservative in their initial desires for breast enlargement. Later on they may decide that a larger implant would be more aesthetically pleasing.

On the other side, some women find that they chose too large initially, sometimes to the point of causing physical discomfort. The placement of the implant can also affect the final outcome. The same size implant placed beneath the muscle will look smaller than if placed above. In either case, it is relatively easy for a surgeon to replace with a different size. Sometimes it is as simple as making a small incision and pumping some more fluid into the silicone shell through a tube.

As with any surgery, both breast augmentation and removal can cause emotional stress. Before either procedure is undergone, be sure to make an informed decision and discuss possible complications and risks with a qualified surgeon. The more you learn about the surgery beforehand, the less likely you will need to have a revision based on aesthetic preferences. Complications, however, are always possible.