Breast Implant Removal (Explantation)

Informed Consent Document

Digital Version 1.0 | March 2026

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Patient Details

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Introduction

How the surgery is performed

Breast implant removal involves the surgical removal of one or both breast implants. Depending on the clinical findings, the scar capsule surrounding the implant may also be removed (capsulectomy). The procedure is performed through an incision, usually along the existing scar from the original augmentation. In some cases, a breast lift may be performed at the same time to address excess skin.

What to expect after the procedure

Following implant removal, the breasts will be smaller and may appear deflated or droopy, particularly if the implants have been in place for a long time. Swelling and bruising are expected and will settle over several weeks. A supportive bra should be worn as advised by your Consultant.

Anaesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, usually as a day case.

Why is breast implant removal performed?

Breast implant removal may be performed for a variety of reasons, including capsular contracture, implant rupture, patient preference, implant-related symptoms, or as part of a planned exchange to different implants. Some patients choose to have implants removed without replacement.

Limitations

Following implant removal, the breasts will not return to their pre-augmentation appearance. The skin and tissues may have stretched and thinned during the time the implants were in place, and additional procedures such as a breast lift or fat transfer may be required to improve the appearance of the breasts.

Risks and complications

As with all surgery, the decision to proceed should be based on a careful assessment of the benefits against the risks. Most patients do not experience significant complications, but it is essential to discuss all potential risks and outcomes with your Consultant before proceeding.

Alternative Treatments

Breast implant removal is an elective surgical operation. Alternative surgery include:

Retaining existing breast implants
Monitoring with regular follow-up
Not undergoing surgery

Risks and potential complications are associated with alternative surgery.

Risks of Breast Implant Removal

1. Bleeding – It is possible, though unusual, to experience bleeding during or after surgery. If postoperative bleeding occurs, it may require emergency treatment to drain accumulated blood (haematoma). Blood transfusion is rarely required. Increased activity too soon after surgery can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to follow all postoperative instructions and avoid strenuous activity for the advised period. I have stopped taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and any herbal or dietary supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding, as advised by my Consultant.

2. Infection – Infection is unusual after surgery. Should an infection occur, treatment including antibiotics or additional surgery may be necessary.

3. Change in Nipple and Skin Sensation – Your breasts will be sore after surgery, and you may experience a change in the sensitivity of the nipples. This usually resolves in three to four weeks. To have decreased sensation is rare. However, decreased or permanent loss in nipple sensation is more likely to occur if extensive surgical dissection is needed to remove scar tissue or silicone gel from a broken implant.

4. Skin Scarring – Although good wound healing after a surgical procedure is expected, abnormal scars may occur both within the skin and the deeper tissues. Excessive scarring is uncommon. Additional treatments including surgery may be necessary to treat abnormal scarring.

5. Firmness – Excessive firmness of the breasts can occur after surgery due to internal scarring. The occurrence of this is not predictable.

6. Seroma – Tissue fluid may accumulate in the space where the breast implant was located. Additional treatment or surgery may be necessary to remove this fluid.

7. Implant Rupture – As with any man-made object implanted in the human body, device failure can occur. It is possible that an implant can rupture causing silicone gel to be released from the implant. Implants also can rupture during the removal process. If implant rupture has occurred, it may not be possible to completely remove all of the silicone gel that has escaped. Implant shell material of textured breast implants may be impossible to completely remove. Calcification around implants can occur and may require removal of the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It may not be possible to completely remove the scar tissue that has formed around a breast implant or silicone gel.

8. Mammography – It is important to continue to have regular mammography examinations and to perform periodic breast self-examination. Should a breast lump be detected with either mammography or self-examination, please contact your Consultant.

9. Psychological/Appearance Changes – It is possible that after breast implant removal you may experience a strong negative effect on your physical appearance, including significant loss of breast volume, distortion, and wrinkling of the skin. Your appearance may be worse than prior to your surgery for the placement of the breast implants. There is the possibility of severe psychological disturbances including depression. It is possible that you or your partner will lose interest in sexual relations.

10. Asymmetry – Breast asymmetry may occur after surgery. You may be disappointed with the results of surgery. Additional surgery may be necessary to reshape breasts after implant removal. Scars resulting from breast implant removal may complicate future breast surgery.

11. Health Disorders Alleged to be Caused by Breast Implants – Currently there is insufficient evidence to state that the removal of breast implant(s) and capsule(s) will alter the course or prevent autoimmune/other disorders alleged to be caused by breast implants. The removal of breast implants may be of no health benefit to you.

12. Breast Disease – Current medical information does not demonstrate an increased risk of breast disease or breast cancer in women who have breast implant surgery for either cosmetic or reconstructive purposes. Breast disease can occur independently of breast implants. It is recommended that all women perform periodic self-examination of their breasts, have mammography as per the NHS breast screening programme, and to seek professional care should they notice a breast lump.

13. Smoking, Second Hand Smoke Exposure and Use of Nicotine Products (Patch, Gum, Nasal Spray) – Patients who are currently smoking, use tobacco products, or nicotine products (patch, gum, or nasal spray) are at a greater risk for significant surgical complications such as skin loss, delayed healing, and additional scarring. Individuals exposed to second hand smoke are also at potential risk for similar complications attributable to nicotine exposure. Additionally, smoking may have a significant negative effect on anaesthesia and recovery from anaesthesia, with coughing and possibly increased bleeding. Individuals who are not exposed to tobacco smoke or nicotine containing products have a significantly lower risk of these types of complication.

14. Allergic Reactions – In rare cases, local allergies to tape, suture material, or topical preparations have been reported. Systemic reactions which are more serious may occur to drugs used during surgery and prescription medicines. Allergic reactions may require additional treatment.

15. Sleep Apnoea/CPAP – Individuals who have breathing disorders such as "Obstructive Sleep Apnoea" and who may rely upon Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices or utilise nighttime oxygen are advised that they are at a substantive risk for respiratory arrest and death when they take narcotic pain medications following surgery. This is an important consideration when evaluating the safety of surgical procedures in terms of very serious complications, including death, which relate to preexisting medical conditions. Surgery may be considered only with monitoring afterwards in a hospital setting in order to reduce risk of potential respiratory complications and to safely manage pain following surgery.

16. DVT/PE Risks and Advisory – There is a risk of blood clots, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolus (PE) with every surgical procedure. It varies with the risk factors. The higher the number of risk factors, the greater the risk and the more involved you must be in both understanding these risks and, when permitted by your Consultant, walking and moving your legs. There may also be leg stockings, squeezing active leg devices, and possible medicines to help lower your risk.

Patients That Have Undergone Bariatric Surgery

I have informed my Consultant if I have undergone any form of bariatric surgery (such as gastric band, gastric bypass, or gastric sleeve). I understand that patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are at increased risk of surgical complications, including impaired wound healing, nutritional deficiencies (particularly in protein, iron, vitamin B12, folate, calcium, and vitamin D), and increased susceptibility to infection. I understand that these deficiencies can persist for years after bariatric surgery, even with supplementation.

I understand that it is recommended that my weight has been stable for a minimum of 6 to 12 months before undergoing elective surgery.

I understand that pre-operative blood tests may be required to assess my nutritional status and fitness for surgery.

Mental Health and Elective Surgery

I understand that all elective surgery carries inherent uncertainty and that results are influenced by individual biological factors beyond the Consultant's control. No guarantee of a specific outcome has been made or implied.

I am proceeding with realistic expectations focused on improvement rather than perfection. I understand that dissatisfaction with an outcome does not in itself indicate negligent or substandard care.

I have disclosed to my Consultant any current or past history of anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder, or any other mental health condition. I accept that my psychological response to surgery, including any impact on my emotional wellbeing or ability to work, cannot be predicted regardless of the surgical outcome, and that surgery may temporarily or permanently exacerbate pre-existing psychological concerns.

I take personal responsibility for my emotional and psychological preparedness for surgery and its outcomes. I have been advised to seek independent counselling support before proceeding if I have any concerns about my ability to cope with a result that falls short of my expectations.

Cooling-Off Period

In accordance with GMC guidelines, Kinvara Private Hospital requires a minimum two-week cooling off period between your initial consultation and any cosmetic surgery procedure. By signing this consent form, you confirm that this cooling off period has been observed, or where it has not been possible, that you have chosen to proceed with your full understanding and acceptance.

Smoking or Vaping

I confirm that I have truthfully disclosed my smoking and nicotine use status to my Consultant. I understand that smoking and the use of nicotine products significantly impairs wound healing and increases the risk of surgical complications. I have been advised to refrain from smoking and all nicotine products for a minimum of six weeks before surgery and until my Consultant confirms it is safe to resume.

I understand that a urine or blood test may be carried out immediately before surgery to confirm the absence of nicotine, and that if nicotine is detected, my procedure may be postponed at the discretion of my Consultant.

Anaesthetic Risks

I understand that all forms of anaesthesia and sedation carry risks, including the possibility of complications, injury, heart attack, stroke, and in rare cases, death.

I understand that surgery carries a risk of blood clots, including Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE), and that preventative measures may include early mobilisation, compression devices, and anticoagulation therapy. Thrombosed veins may also develop around intravenous (IV) sites, which usually resolve without treatment. I have informed my Consultant of any relevant history, including blood clots, cancer, varicose veins, heart or lung conditions, recurrent miscarriage, obesity, recent long-haul travel, prolonged immobility, family history of clotting disorders, personal history of thrombophilia, or use of the oral contraceptive pill or hormone therapy. I have been advised by my Consultant whether to temporarily stop taking oral contraceptive pills, hormone replacement therapy, or any other oestrogen-containing medication before surgery, and I have followed this advice.

I understand that pulmonary complications such as chest infection, partial lung collapse, or fat embolism may occur, and that these risks are higher in smokers and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. I understand that cardiac complications are a risk with any surgery and anaesthesia, even in patients without symptoms. If I experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heartbeats after surgery, I will seek immediate medical attention.

I understand that allergic reactions or adverse responses to anaesthetic agents, medications, or surgical materials may occur, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. I have provided my Consultant with a full list of all medications, supplements, and any known drug allergies.

I understand that where repositioning is required during surgery, there is a small risk of nerve injury or pressure-related skin damage.

I have informed my Consultant if I have been diagnosed with, or have symptoms suggestive of, obstructive sleep apnoea, including heavy snoring, witnessed breathing pauses during sleep, daytime drowsiness, or use of a CPAP machine. I understand that sleep apnoea increases the risks associated with general anaesthesia and that narcotic pain medications used after surgery may further compromise breathing during sleep.

I understand that ileus (temporary disruption of normal bowel function) may occur after surgery, particularly following general anaesthesia and the use of pain medications. Symptoms may include abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs may occur, which can lead to pneumonia.

Patient Compliance

I understand that I must follow all Consultant instructions carefully, as this is essential for the success of my outcome. I understand that surgical incisions must not be subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing, and that personal and vocational activity needs to be restricted. I will not remove protective dressings or drains unless instructed by my Consultant.

I understand that successful postoperative function depends on both surgery and subsequent care, and that physical activity that increases my pulse or heart rate may cause bruising, swelling, fluid accumulation and the need for return to surgery. I understand that I must not drive a vehicle until advised by my Consultant that it is safe to do so, and that I must not drive while taking prescription pain medication. I have been advised to check with my car insurance provider regarding any restrictions on driving following surgery. I understand that I must attend all scheduled post-operative appointments as advised by my Consultant, and that failure to attend may compromise my outcome.

Financial Responsibilities

I understand that the cost of my procedure includes the fees for the surgery stated in my quote. I acknowledge that this quote does not cover any potential future costs for additional procedures that I may elect to have, or that may be required in order to revise, optimise, or complete my outcome.

I understand that should complications arise, additional costs may be incurred, and that any secondary surgery, further hospital admissions, or revision procedures will be charged separately and will be my financial responsibility.

I understand that complications arising from elective cosmetic surgery are generally not covered by private health insurance or the NHS, and that any treatment required for such complications will be my financial responsibility. I confirm that I have received and understood my quote prior to signing this consent form, and I accept responsibility for all associated costs, including any future treatments that may become necessary.

Consent for Breast Implant Removal (Explantation)

I hereby authorise my Consultant and such assistants to perform Breast Implant Removal (Explantation).

I recognise that during the course of the operation and medical treatment or anaesthesia, unforeseen conditions may necessitate different procedures than those above. I therefore authorise the Consultant and assistants to perform such other procedures that are in the exercise of his or her professional judgment necessary and desirable.
I consent to the administration of such anaesthetics considered necessary or advisable. I understand that all forms of anaesthesia involve risk and the possibility of complications, injury, and sometimes death.
I acknowledge that no guarantee or representation has been given by anyone as to the results that may be obtained.
I understand that it may not be possible to achieve optimal results from a single procedure, and that further surgical sessions may be needed to produce the desired final result. Any additional procedures will incur further costs.
I accept that the practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science, and that while good results are expected, individual results may vary depending on factors such as my general health, healing capacity, and compliance with post-operative instructions.
I consent to be photographed or video recorded before, during, and after the operation(s) for medical, scientific, or educational purposes, provided my identity is not revealed.
I consent to the disposal of any tissue, medical devices or body parts which may be removed.
I understand that my Consultant is an independent medical practitioner and not an employee of Kinvara Private Hospital. My clinical agreement is directly with my Consultant, who is solely responsible for my surgical care and clinical decisions. Kinvara Private Hospital provides the facilities, nursing care, and administrative support.
I realise that not having the operation is an option.

It has been explained to me in a way that I understand:

The above surgery to be undertaken.
There may be alternative surgery.
There are risks to the surgery proposed.
I can confirm that I have read, understood, and have taken time to consider all the identified risks as described above. I have also had the opportunity to discuss any additional concerns and questions with my Consultant, and my Consultant has addressed my concerns to my satisfaction. Therefore I have decided to proceed with surgery with the full knowledge of the intended risk and benefits involved. I certify that I have fully informed my Consultant correctly and to the best of my knowledge my full medical history status.

Patient Signature *

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Patient Name

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Date

8 July 2026

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