Breast Implant Removal or Replacement on the Sunshine Coast: What Are My Options?
Many women on the Sunshine Coast who had breast implants years ago eventually consider having them removed. Whether due to implant rupture, discomfort, lifestyle changes after having children, or simply wanting to be free of implants, their priorities often change over time.
Will I look flat if my implants come out?
A frequent concern I hear is: "Will I look completely flat and deflated if the implants are removed?" The reality is often much better than most women expect. In many cases, once the implant is removed, the remaining breast tissue can be reshaped and lifted into a more natural, youthful position.
Some women, however, have enough skin elasticity that they may only need the implants removed without a lift.
Adding natural volume with fat transfer
For those who still want some volume but prefer not to have implants, fat transfer (fat grafting) is another option. This involves using your own fat from another area of the body to add a modest, natural boost in size. While effective, the amount of volume achievable is more limited than with implants, and there are some considerations regarding future breast screening.
Exchanging or downsizing implants
Other patients choose to exchange their implants — often downsizing to a smaller, more manageable size and combining this with a breast lift if required. Replacing implants means you will still need ongoing monitoring and may require further surgery in the future.
What about the capsule?
When an implant sits in the body, a layer of scar tissue called a capsule forms around it. This is a normal response. At the time of removal, the capsule can be left in place, partially removed, or fully removed (a capsulectomy), depending on the findings at surgery and the reason for removal.
Routine complete removal of the capsule is not always necessary, and the right approach is individualised. We will discuss what is appropriate for you, weighing the potential benefits against the fact that more extensive removal is a larger operation.
Assessment and recovery
Breast implant removal is an operation in its own right, with a recovery period and the usual risks of surgery. If a rupture is suspected, your assessment may include imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI. We will talk through what your recovery is likely to involve at your consultation.
What the research shows
Recent research is encouraging: in women who had symptoms they attributed to their implants, one large systematic review found that around 82% reported an improvement in those symptoms after the implants were removed. Outcomes are individual, though, and this won't apply to everyone.
Arranging a consultation
Every option is highly individual. If you are considering breast implant removal or revision, I would be happy to assess you in my Birtinya or Noosa rooms and discuss which option best suits your current lifestyle and goals.
Frequently asked questions
Will my breasts look empty after implant removal?
Often the result is better than expected. In many cases the remaining breast tissue can be reshaped and lifted into a more natural position; some women need only the implants removed. The outcome depends on your tissue, implant size and how long they have been in place.
Do I need a lift when my implants are removed?
Not always. Women with good skin elasticity may only need the implants removed, while others benefit from a lift (mastopexy) at the same time. This is assessed individually.
Do you remove the capsule as well?
The scar-tissue capsule can be left, partially removed or fully removed, depending on the findings and the reason for surgery. Routine complete removal is not always necessary and is decided on an individual basis.
Is breast implant removal covered by Medicare?
A rebate may apply in certain medical circumstances, such as implant rupture or other complications. Purely cosmetic removal is generally not covered. Eligibility is assessed at consultation.
References
- Ferreira S, Barros AS, Marques M. Breast Implant Illness: Symptoms, Outcomes with Explantation and Potential Etiologies — A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2025.
- Zhang Z, et al. What Can We Learn from Breast Implant Explantation: a 28-Year, Multicenter Retrospective Study of 1004 Explantation Cases. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2023.
This article is general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks; you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results vary. A consultation with Dr Livingston is required to determine your suitability for any procedure. Dr Ryan Livingston is an AHPRA-registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001523680).