MED0001157212 - This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks, Read more here.
(07) 5539 1000
Book a consultation

Breast Implant Removal Gold Coast

Choose Dr Terrence Scamp for breast implant removal (breast explant) at our Bundall practice on the Gold Coast.

Make an enquiry Know More
Breast lift & Motiva bg 01

Breast Implant Removal on the Gold Coast

Breast implant removal, also known as breast explant surgery, is a procedure performed to remove existing breast implants. Patients consider implant removal for a range of reasons, including complications with their existing implants, the natural lifespan of the implants, symptoms they suspect may be related to their implants, or a change in personal preference about having implants.

Breast implant removal may be performed alone, or in combination with additional procedures such as a breast lift (mastopexy) to reshape the remaining breast tissue, fat transfer (lipostructure) to add volume using the patient’s own tissue, or breast implant replacement where new implants are inserted to replace the originals. Where implant replacement is being considered, please see the breast revision and replacement page for further information.

Dr Terrence Scamp is a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Bundall on the Gold Coast, with over 30 years of experience in plastic surgery. The practice sees patients from across South East Queensland, including those travelling from Brisbane, for whom Bundall is approximately one hour south.

Reasons Patients Consider Breast Implant Removal

There is no single reason patients choose to remove their breast implants. Some reasons are clinical in nature, while others relate to changes in personal preference over time.

Reaching the typical implant replacement timeframe: Breast implants are not designed to be permanent, lifetime devices. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the Australian regulator responsible for medical devices, breast implants are typically replaced or removed approximately every 10 to 15 years. Some patients choose to have their implants removed at this point without replacement, while others opt to have them replaced with new implants.

Capsular contracture: The body forms a natural capsule of scar tissue around any breast implant. In some patients, this capsule tightens and hardens around the implant, a condition known as capsular contracture. This can cause discomfort, distortion of breast shape, or firmness, and is a common reason for implant removal.

Implant rupture or deflation: Over time, an implant shell can develop a tear or leak, which generally requires removal. Modern silicone implants are designed to minimise the spread of silicone in the event of rupture, but the implant should still be removed when this occurs.

Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms: Some patients report a range of systemic symptoms they suspect may be associated with their implants, sometimes referred to as Breast Implant Illness. This is an area of ongoing clinical investigation, and patients experiencing such symptoms may consider implant removal as part of their care plan.

BIA-ALCL concerns: Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare cancer associated with certain types of breast implants, particularly textured implants. The TGA publishes ongoing guidance on BIA-ALCL, and patients with concerns about their implant type may consider removal in consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

Change in personal preference: Many patients reach a point where they no longer wish to have implants, regardless of any clinical concern. This may relate to changes in lifestyle, body image, or how they feel about their bodies more generally. There is no requirement to provide a specific reason for considering implant removal beyond personal preference.

A Breast Implant Removal Consultation

Before any breast implant removal surgery, patients will attend a consultation with Dr Terrence Scamp. The consultation is an opportunity to discuss the reasons for considering removal, examine the existing implants and breast tissue, and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Patients are encouraged to bring any documentation relating to their existing implants, including the implant type, size, manufacturer, and date of placement. This information helps inform the surgical plan and may be relevant if the implant type has been the subject of TGA advisories or recalls.

Dr Scamp typically conducts a two-stage consultation process prior to breast implant removal surgery. This allows time to discuss the surgical plan, review options, and consider any additional procedures (such as a breast lift or fat grafting) that may be appropriate, before a final decision is made about proceeding.

The risks and recovery associated with breast implant removal will be explained in full so patients can make an informed decision before proceeding.

View Full Gallery

What the Procedure Involves

Breast implant removal is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital setting. The procedure typically involves accessing the implant through the existing incision from the original augmentation, where possible, removing the implant, and carrying out any additional steps based on the individual surgical plan.

Additional steps may include:

  • Capsulectomy or capsulotomy, which involves removing or releasing the scar tissue capsule around the implant. The approach depends on the condition of the capsule and the surgical goals.
  • Breast lift (mastopexy), where excess skin is removed and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to address sagging or changes in breast position following removal.
  • Fat transfer (lipostructure), where fat is harvested from another area of the body and used to add volume to the breasts following implant removal.

The specific combination of techniques depends on the patient’s anatomy, the condition of the existing implants, and the goals of the procedure. The duration of the surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure performed.

Cost of Breast Implant Removal on the Gold Coast

The cost of breast implant removal on the Gold Coast varies between patients, as each surgical plan is tailored to the individual. An accurate cost estimate can only be provided after a consultation, where the surgical plan is agreed.

Factors affecting the overall cost include:

  • The surgical approach (removal alone, removal with capsulectomy, or removal with additional procedures)
  • Whether a breast lift or fat transfer is being performed alongside removal
  • The duration of the procedure
  • The surgeon’s fee
  • The anaesthetist fee
  • Hospital and theatre charges
  • Post-operative care requirements

In some cases, where breast implant removal is medically necessary, such as in cases of capsular contracture, implant rupture, or other documented clinical concerns, there may be applicable Medicare item numbers and private health insurance cover for the hospital component of the procedure. Eligibility for any rebates will be reviewed during the consultation. Patients are encouraged to speak directly with their private health fund to confirm what their specific cover includes.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from breast implant removal varies depending on the complexity of the procedure performed. A straightforward implant removal generally has a shorter recovery profile than a removal combined with a capsulectomy, breast lift, or fat transfer.

Recovery generally follows this timeline:

  • First week: Rest at home, with limited activity. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common during this period. Pain relief can be prescribed to help manage discomfort.
  • One to two weeks: Most patients are able to return to desk-based work and light activity, depending on the nature of the work and the extent of the procedure. Swelling and bruising continue to settle.
  • Two to six weeks: Continued use of a surgical support garment. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and exercise are restricted.
  • Six weeks onwards: Gradual return to exercise and full activity, as confirmed at follow-up appointments.
  • Up to six months: The breasts continue to settle into their final shape as residual swelling fully resolves.

Throughout recovery, patients are advised to wear a surgical support garment, refrain from smoking and alcohol, attend all scheduled follow-up appointments, and follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by Dr Scamp.

As with all surgery, breast implant removal carries risks, including but not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and changes in breast shape following removal. These are discussed in full at the consultation so patients can make an informed decision before proceeding. For more information, please visit the surgery risks and complications page.

About Dr Terrence Scamp MBBS FRACS (Plast)

Dr Terrence Scamp has been performing reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgery, including breast reduction (mammaplasty) and breast augmentation (mammaplasty), for over 30 years on the Gold Coast. His training spans Australia, Europe, and North America, and he holds Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) as a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. His AHPRA registration can be verified on the public register (MED0001157212).

About Dr Scamp

Book a Breast Implant Removal Consultation on the Gold Coast

To enquire about a breast implant removal consultation with Dr Terrence Scamp at his Bundall practice on the Gold Coast, contact the rooms on (07) 5539 1000 or visit the booking information page.

Learn More AboutDr Terrence Scamp

MBBS FRACS (Plast)

With over 30 years of experience as a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Terrence Scamp prides himself on staying up to date with the latest and safest advancements in the field of cosmetic plastic surgery. He applies his expertise with a personal approach to each individual client, ensuring they feel well cared for and that they achieve an optimal result.

About dr scamp

Get in Touch Contact Us

map-img

95 Upton Street, Bundall Qld 4217
(07) 5539 1000
Icon-md-open-gold

Have a Question?

Please fill out our form below and one of our helpful staff will be in touch with you shortly.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Would you like to subscribe to Dr. Terrence Scamp's newsletter and stay informed about the latest industry news?*
MED0001157212 - This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks, Read more here.