Charleston’s Trusted Explant Specialist
BREAST IMPLANT Removal
En Bloc Capsulectomy & Personalized Explant Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina
Schedule Consultation or learn about en bloc capsulectomy
CRANTFORD COSTA PLASTIC SURGERY
247 Calhoun St.
Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 755-6591
Fax: 854-201-2400
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Skin Clinic hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
At A Glance
Procedure Time
1–3 Hours
Anesthesia
General
Recovery Time
1–2 Weeks
Final Results
3–6 Months
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal, also known as explantation, is a surgical procedure that safely removes breast implants. Whether you’re experiencing breast implant illness (BII), dealing with capsular contracture, or simply want to return to a natural appearance, Dr. Crantford provides expert surgical care tailored to your unique situation.
Many patients seek implant removal for a variety of reasons. Some experience discomfort or health concerns related to their implants, while others have undergone lifestyle changes or aesthetic preferences and no longer desire implants. Whatever your reason, our personalized approach ensures you receive the most appropriate surgical technique for your goals.
Dr. Crantford performs implant removal with or without comprehensive capsulectomy. He can combine your explantation with breast lift surgery or fat transfer to achieve natural-looking results that align with your aesthetic goals. Every removal procedure is customized to address your specific needs and concerns.
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR Implant Removal?
Symptom-Based
Breast Implant Illness
Experiencing chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or other symptoms you believe are related to your implants. En bloc capsulectomy can help address these concerns.
Complication
Capsular Contracture
Dealing with painful scar tissue tightening around your implants. Comprehensive capsule removal provides relief and prevents recurrence.
Implant Issue
Implant Rupture/Leak
Dealing with silent rupture, gel bleed, or other implant integrity concerns. Professional removal prevents further complications.
Life Change
Size or Lifestyle Change
You’ve decided implants no longer fit your lifestyle, aesthetic goals, or personal preferences. Personalized explantation achieves natural-looking results.
Longevity
Aging Implants
10+ years old, proactive removal or replacement. Dr. Crantford helps you decide the best approach for your long-term health.
Confidence
Peace of Mind
No symptoms but want implants out. Complete removal gives you confidence in your decision and long-term wellness.
THE EN BLOC Technique
98%
Patient Satisfaction
100%
Capsule Removal
20+
Years of Experience
Complete En-Bloc Removal
Preserves tissue integrity while removing the entire capsule intact with the implant as a single unit.
Textured Implant Safe Removal
Specialized technique for safe removal of textured implants with careful capsule handling.
Combination Procedures Available
Breast lift or fat transfer can be performed simultaneously to optimize your aesthetic results.
Minimal Visible Scarring
Uses existing incision sites whenever possible to minimize new scarring and maintain aesthetic appearance.
Your Removal Journey
Personalized Consultation
Thorough discussion of your symptoms, goals, and concerns. Dr. Crantford evaluates your implants and discusses all options available to you.
Expert Surgical Technique
Precision en bloc or simple explantation based on your specific needs. Meticulous surgical approach minimizes trauma and optimizes results.
Dedicated Recovery Support
Comprehensive post-operative care including follow-up appointments, pain management guidance, and activity progression support.
RECOVERY & Results
Recovery from breast implant removal is generally straightforward, with most patients experiencing significant relief as part of their recovery journey. The timeline varies depending on whether you undergo simple explantation or en bloc capsulectomy.
Days 1–3: Initial recovery at home with prescribed pain management and restricted activity. Compression bra worn continuously.
Week 1–2: Most patients return to light activities. Swelling and bruising gradually improve. Sutures typically removed at 1–2 weeks.
Weeks 3–6: Gradual return to normal activities, including light exercise. Most patients feel significantly better and notice improved energy levels.
3–6 Months: Final results become apparent as swelling fully resolves and tissues settle. Breast shape stabilizes. Many patients report sustained improvement in symptoms.
After implant removal, your breasts will have a natural appearance reflecting your inherent breast tissue. Many patients report feeling relieved and more comfortable with their appearance. If you’ve experienced breast implant illness symptoms, many patients report meaningful improvement in their symptoms over weeks to months following surgery as your body heals.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR Investment
Breast Implant Removal
$4,500–$8,500
Simple explantation. En bloc capsulectomy and combination procedures priced individually. Consultation provides personalized estimate.
Removal Type: En bloc capsulectomy typically costs more due to increased surgical complexity and time.
Combination Procedures: Breast lift or fat transfer increase total cost but provide enhanced aesthetic results.
Insurance Coverage: Cosmetic removal typically not covered. Medical complications may be eligible for partial coverage.
Financing Options: Flexible payment plans available to make your procedure accessible and manageable.
Why Crantford Costa
When you choose Dr. Crantford for your breast implant removal, you’re partnering with a surgeon who brings extensive expertise, compassion, and dedication to your care. Dr. Crantford understands that implant removal is an important decision, and he’s committed to providing you with the highest level of surgical skill and personalized attention.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with 20+ years of experience, Dr. Crantford has spent decades perfecting his craft and staying at the forefront of surgical techniques. His approach to implant removal combines technical expertise with artistic sensibility to achieve results that look natural and feel right for you.
Board-Certified Expertise: Extensive proficiency in en bloc and total capsulectomy techniques, with thousands of successful breast procedures performed.
Personalized Approach: Every treatment plan is customized to your unique anatomy, concerns, and aesthetic goals for optimal results.
Comprehensive Care: From pre-operative evaluation through post-operative recovery, you receive comprehensive care and support throughout your journey.
Your Wellbeing First: Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities. We listen to your concerns and work with you to achieve your goals.
Ready to explore your breast implant removal options? Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Crantford to discuss your specific needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is en bloc capsulectomy and do I need it?
En bloc capsulectomy is the surgical removal of the breast implant along with the entire surrounding scar tissue capsule as one intact unit. This technique is beneficial for patients with breast implant illness symptoms, textured implants, ruptured implants, or those seeking complete removal of all foreign material for peace of mind. During your consultation, Dr. Crantford will assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach for your needs.
What is breast implant illness (BII)?
Breast implant illness is a condition where patients experience symptoms such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, autoimmune responses, and other health concerns that may be associated with breast implants. While medical research continues, many patients report significant symptom improvement after implant removal. Dr. Crantford takes your symptoms seriously and will discuss how removal might benefit your specific situation.
Can I get a breast lift at the same time as my implant removal?
Yes. Dr. Crantford frequently combines breast implant removal with breast lift surgery or fat transfer to achieve natural-looking results and restore breast shape and position. This combination approach allows you to address your implant concerns while optimizing your aesthetic outcomes in a single surgery, reducing total recovery time compared to separate procedures.
Will my breasts look normal after implant removal?
After implant removal, your breasts will have a natural appearance reflecting your inherent breast tissue. The exact appearance depends on your original breast anatomy, the size and duration of your implants, and your skin elasticity. Many patients are pleased with their natural appearance after removal. If desired, breast lift or fat transfer can enhance shape and contour.
Can my implants be replaced during the same surgery?
Yes, implants can be replaced during the same surgery if desired. Some patients choose to remove their current implants and replace them with new ones of a different size or style. Others prefer simple removal without replacement. Dr. Crantford will discuss all options and help you make the best decision for your goals.
Is breast implant removal covered by insurance?
Breast implant removal for cosmetic reasons is typically not covered by insurance. However, removal due to medical complications, rupture, or documented health concerns may be eligible for coverage. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and discussing your situation with our office during consultation.
How long does breast implant removal surgery take?
Breast implant removal typically takes 1 to 3 hours depending on whether simple explantation or en bloc capsulectomy is performed, and whether additional procedures like breast lift or fat transfer are included. Dr. Crantford will provide a more specific surgical timeline during your consultation based on your individualized treatment plan.
What happens to my breast shape after implant removal?
Your breast shape after implant removal depends on your original breast tissue, skin quality, and elasticity. Some patients maintain good breast shape, while others may benefit from complementary procedures like breast lift or fat transfer to optimize contour and projection. Dr. Crantford will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.
Serving Charleston & the Lowcountry
Located in Charleston, South Carolina, Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery serves patients throughout the Lowcountry and beyond. Our state-of-the-art surgical facility is accredited and equipped with the latest technology to ensure your safety and comfort.
247 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
843-755-6591
Whether you’re a Charleston resident or traveling to our area for your procedure, we’re here to provide you with expert care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. From your initial consultation through your final follow-up appointment, our entire team is dedicated to providing you with exceptional care.
Ready For Your Consultation?
Take the first step toward feeling comfortable and confident in your decision. Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Crantford today.
Call Now 843-755-6591
