The entire capsule of scar tissue surrounding the implant is carefully removed, ensuring no remnants are left behind.
Breast Cosmetic
Capsulectomy, En-Bloc Capsulectomy & Removal of Problematic Implants
Breast Implant Removal Surgery Sheffield
If you’ve decided you no longer want your breast implants, or it’s time to have them replaced, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Breast implant removal surgery is something many women consider for a range of personal or medical reasons, and the good news is, it can be done safely and effectively at any time.
As a surgeon, my job is to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body—whether that means enhancing your breasts or, in some cases, removing implants that no longer suit you. Together, we’ll talk through what’s best for your health, appearance, and peace of mind.
Who Should Have Breast Implant Removal?
There are many reasons why a woman might choose to have her implants removed. Some simply feel they’ve outgrown them or want to return to their natural shape. Others are experiencing complications such as:
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Capsular contracture (a tightening of the scar tissue around the implant)
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Implant rupture or leakage
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Discomfort or pain
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Aesthetic concerns, like changes in shape over time
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Health concerns, including those related to Breast Implant Illness (BII)
If any of these apply to you—or if you’re just feeling unsure about your implants—it’s absolutely okay to consider removal. We’ll have an open and honest conversation about your symptoms, goals, and what you can expect from surgery.
What is Capsulectomy and Who Is It For?
A capsulectomy involves removing the scar tissue capsule that forms around a breast implant. This is often recommended if you have capsular contracture, where the capsule tightens and distorts the shape of the implant or causes discomfort.
In a full capsulectomy, I remove both the implant and the entire capsule of scar tissue. This can help relieve pain, improve the shape of the breast, and reduce the chance of further complications.
What is En-Bloc Capsulectomy and Who Is It For?
An en-bloc capsulectomy is a specific technique where the implant and the surrounding scar tissue capsule are removed as one single unit—intact and undisturbed. This approach is typically considered when there are concerns about implant rupture or in cases of suspected Breast Implant Illness (BII), where patients report symptoms they believe are linked to their implants.
This procedure is more complex and isn’t always necessary for everyone, but for the right patient, it can be a valuable option. I’ll assess your individual case and explain clearly whether en-bloc removal is appropriate or advisable for you.
What to Expect When You Have Breast Implant Removal
Before anything else, we’ll sit down together for a full consultation. This is your chance to share how you’re feeling and what you hope to achieve. I’ll examine your breasts, review your medical history, and recommend the best surgical approach based on your needs.
Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and whether we’re doing a capsulectomy or en-bloc removal. You’ll normally go home the same day.
In some cases, I may recommend a breast lift (mastopexy) at the same time to improve shape and firmness after implant removal. We’ll discuss this thoroughly so you know all your options.
Risks of Breast Implant Removal Surgery
As with any operation, there are risks involved. These can include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in breast sensation, and aesthetic concerns such as dimpling or sagging once the implant is removed.
If we’re doing a capsulectomy or en-bloc removal, the risks are slightly higher due to the more involved nature of the procedure—but I’ll explain everything in detail and make sure you feel well-informed.
Rest assured, I take every possible precaution to ensure your safety and satisfaction with the outcome.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
Most women recover well after implant removal. You’ll likely feel some tightness and discomfort at first, but this usually settles within a week or two. You’ll need to wear a supportive post-surgery bra and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for around 4–6 weeks.
We’ll provide clear aftercare instructions and keep in close contact during your recovery. I’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to check on your healing and make sure everything is progressing as it should.
Many of my patients tell me they feel relieved and empowered after surgery—whether it’s to resolve physical symptoms, feel more in control of their bodies, or simply move forward in a new direction.
Capsulectomy, En-Bloc Capsulectomy & Removal of Problematic Implants Options
- Total Capsulectomy
- En-Bloc Capsulectomy
- Implant Replacement
- Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
- Mastopexy (Breast Lift) After Implant Removal
- Partial Capsulectomy
Total Capsulectomy
En-Bloc Capsulectomy
This technique removes the implant and capsule as one single unit, without opening the capsule. It’s often recommended in cases of implant rupture or for patients concerned about Breast Implant Illness (BII).
Implant Replacement
If you still desire volume after removal, you may opt to replace your implants with new ones for a refreshed and natural-looking result.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Some patients choose to restore volume naturally using fat transfer from other areas of the body, offering a subtle, more natural alternative to implants.
Mastopexy (Breast Lift) After Implant Removal
For patients concerned about sagging post-implant removal, a breast lift can help reshape and enhance breast contours.
Partial Capsulectomy
In some cases, only part of the capsule is removed while leaving healthy tissue intact to preserve breast structure.
At a Glance
Surgery Time
2-3 hours
Time off work
1-2 weeks
Hospital Stay
Day Case
Reasonable Mobility
3-5 days
Driving
1-2 weeks
Shower
2-3 days
Sleeping on back
2-4 weeks
Full Recovery
6-8 weeks
What To Expect
Understanding the process can make your experience smoother. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect before, during, and after your surgery.
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure
1. The consultation
Dr. Guirgis Awad will assess your implants, discuss your concerns, and outline the best surgical approach for your needs. Whether you want implant removal with or without replacement, he will tailor a plan to achieve your desired results.
2. Leading up to the procedure
You will be given detailed pre-surgery instructions, including stopping certain medications, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding smoking to optimise healing.
3. On the day
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and takes approximately 2-3 hours. Once completed, you will be closely monitored in recovery before being discharged the same day or after an overnight stay if needed.
4. Treatment recovery
Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are expected in the first few weeks. You will need to wear a supportive bra, and light activities can typically be resumed within a few days. Full recovery takes around 6-8 weeks.
Common Capsulectomy, En-Bloc Capsulectomy & Removal of Problematic Implants Questions
Many patients have similar concerns when considering implant removal or capsulectomy. Here are some frequently asked questions:
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure
- What is the difference between a total capsulectomy and an en-bloc capsulectomy?
- Will my breasts look deflated after implant removal?
- Is this surgery painful?
- Can I replace my implants after removal?
- How long do I need to take off work?
- Will I have visible scars?
What is the difference between a total capsulectomy and an en-bloc capsulectomy?
A total capsulectomy removes all scar tissue but may involve removing the implant separately. An en-bloc capsulectomy removes the implant and capsule as one piece, ideal for cases of rupture or suspected implant-related illness.
Will my breasts look deflated after implant removal?
Breast appearance varies based on factors like skin elasticity and implant size. Some women may experience sagging, but a breast lift or fat transfer can help restore shape.
Is this surgery painful?
Some discomfort is expected, but pain relief will be provided. Most patients describe it as manageable and similar to initial implant surgery recovery.
Can I replace my implants after removal?
Yes! If you still want implants, Dr. Awad can replace them with new ones in the same procedure.
How long do I need to take off work?
Most patients take 1-2 weeks off, depending on the nature of their work and how they feel post-surgery.
Will I have visible scars?
Incisions are carefully placed to minimise scarring. With proper aftercare, scars will fade significantly over time.
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