If you’re no longer satisfied with your breast implants—whether due to discomfort, aesthetic changes, or personal choice—Dr. Ryan Couvillion offers safe, expert-guided breast implant removal. As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, he helps patients feel confident and supported through every step of the explant journey.
From simple removal to complex revision with lift or fat grafting, you’ll receive a personalized plan focused on your comfort, goals, and long-term health.
Houston’s Destination for Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Couvillion specializes in helping patients navigate their explant journey with clarity and care. Whether you want a fresh start or need complications corrected, you’re in expert hands.
- Specialized in implant removal and revision
- Options for total capsulectomy when needed
- Natural reshaping with lift or fat transfer
- Compassionate, judgment-free guidance
- Board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery
What is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal (also called explant surgery) involves taking out one or both breast implants. It can be done alone or combined with other procedures such as:
- Capsulectomy: Removal of the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant, which can be done in one piece, if necessary.
- Breast Lift: Repositions and reshapes the natural breast
- Fat Transfer: Adds subtle volume and shape using your own tissue
This procedure is often chosen by patients experiencing discomfort, lifestyle changes, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or concerns about breast implant illness (BII).
Benefits of Breast Implant Removal
- Relief from discomfort or implant-related symptoms
- Restore your natural breast shape and proportions
- Option to revise shape with lift or fat grafting
- No more implant-related maintenance or concerns
Who Is a Candidate for Explant Surgery?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You’re experiencing implant-related symptoms or complications
- You no longer want implants for personal or health reasons
- You have concerns about BII or ALCL
- Your implants have ruptured, shifted, or aged
- You want different aesthetic that aligns with your current lifestyle
Dr. Couvillion will walk you through your options, including whether a lift or fat transfer may help restore volume or contour after removal.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal
Before surgery, you’ll meet with Dr. Couvillion to discuss:
- Your symptoms, goals, and implant history
- Any concerns about capsular contracture, BII, or rupture
- Whether total capsulectomy, lift, or fat grafting is appropriate for you
- What results to expect based on your anatomy
You’ll receive clear pre-op instructions and a personalized surgical plan.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Setting: Outpatient procedure
Anesthesia: General anesthesia or local anesthesia
Duration: Typically 1–3 hours
Technique: Varies based on need (simple explant, capsulectomy, lift, fat grafting)
Closure: Meticulous suturing to minimize visible scarring
Recovery: Return home the same day with a compression garment
Your Recovery & Results
You’ll be supported every step of the way with post-op instructions, follow-up visits, and direct access to Dr. Couvillion’s team.
Typical recovery:
- Return to light activity in 5–7 days
- Resume most normal routines within 2–3 weeks
- Swelling and bruising subside in 2–6 weeks
- Results continue to refine over several months
If combined with a lift or fat grafting, your results will evolve gradually into a natural, reshaped contour.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal
Will my breasts look deflated after removal?
Possibly, depending on your skin elasticity and original volume. A lift or fat transfer can often help reshape and restore contour.
Do I need en bloc removal?
The term “en bloc” is really used incorrectly in the breast implant space, as it’s a term that comes from cancer resection literature. A total or complete intact capsulectomy removes the implant and capsule in a single piece without removing any of your native breast tissue – this is what Dr. Couvillion can perform if necessary. Dr. Couvillion will evaluate your case carefully and explain the safest, most effective approach.
Can I replace my implants instead of removing them permanently?
Yes. If your goal is to update or revise rather than remove completely, Dr. Couvillion can guide you through implant replacement or hybrid options.
What if I’m concerned about Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
While not formally recognized as a medical diagnosis, many women report symptoms they attribute to BII. Dr. Couvillion offers supportive, non-judgmental care and can help you explore explant options that may improve your well-being
Will insurance cover breast implant removal?
In some cases—such as ruptured implants or documented complications—insurance may cover part of the procedure. Our team can assist you with documentation and next steps.
Begin Your Explant Journey With Confidence
If you’re ready to remove your implants and feel more at home in your body, Dr. Ryan Couvillion is here to guide your journey with skill, compassion, and care.
“Dr. Couvillion is very gifted. I am extremely pleased with my results. Still smiling about it every day. I was taken very good care of by staff and Dr. Couvillion and would definitely recommend a consult!”
– Patient, Google Reviews