Going Flat After Implant Removal: What to Expect?

Deciding to go flat after breast removal is more than a physical change—it’s a deeply personal transition that deserves thoughtful support and elegant care. 

At Vivari Aesthetics, we offer a premium, patient-first experience for women seeking graceful outcomes and natural harmony after explant surgery. 

In this blog, we walk you through what to expect, ensuring you feel informed, empowered, and beautifully in control of your body.

Reasons why breast implant removal is considered

At Vivari Aesthetics, we understand that the decision to remove breast implants is deeply personal—and often rooted in both physical well-being and aesthetic evolution. While breast implants don’t last a lifetime, removal may be desired or medically necessary for several reasons.

Natural changes in breast appearance

Over time, life changes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, or weight fluctuations can alter the shape and position of your breasts—prompting some women to remove or revise their implants for a more natural and harmonious look.

Capsular contracture

One of the most common medical reasons for implant removal is capsular contracture—when scar tissue around the implant hardens, causing pain, discomfort, or distortion in breast shape.

Implant rupture or leakage

Silicone or saline breast implants can rupture or leak, leading to changes in breast size, firmness, or symmetry. Removal and/or replacement is typically required in such cases.

Implant shifting or movement

Over time, implants may shift from their original position, resulting in asymmetry or an unnatural appearance. Removal or revision may be needed to restore balance and contour.

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Some women report systemic symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, or cognitive fog that they associate with their implants. While research is ongoing, many experience symptom relief following explant surgery.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)

Though rare, BIA-ALCL is a type of lymphoma that can develop in the scar tissue surrounding textured implants. Women who have had textured implants are encouraged to consult their surgeon regarding potential risks.

A shift in personal aesthetic or lifestyle

For many women, the choice to go flat or return to their natural shape is a conscious and empowered decision—driven by a desire for comfort, simplicity, or a refined, authentic aesthetic.

Benefits of breast implant removal surgery

  • Embrace a natural silhouette that aligns with your evolving sense of beauty.
  • Relieve discomfort caused by complications such as tightness, rupture, or implant shifting.
  • Eliminate the need for future surgeries or ongoing implant maintenance.
  • Support overall wellness, especially for those experiencing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII).
  • Enjoy greater physical comfort during sleep, exercise, and daily activities.
  • Reduce long-term health risks associated with implants, including BIA-ALCL.
flat after breast implant removal

What to expect during the breast implant removal procedure?

At Vivari Aesthetics, breast implant removal is performed with precision, artistry, and care—ensuring both safety and a beautifully restored silhouette.

Personalized consultation

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation. Our expert surgeon will review your medical history, evaluate your current implants, and discuss your aesthetic goals. 

They will also give you specific instructions to prepare for your implant removal surgery, such as adjusting or avoiding certain medications and stopping smoking or using tobacco products.

The surgical procedure

An expert anaesthesiologist will administer medication to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Depending on your tailored surgical plan, you may receive:

  • IV sedation – to help you feel calm, relaxed, and at ease.
  • General anaesthesia – to place you in a gentle, sleep-like state during the procedure.

One of our skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons will create a discreet incision—either beneath the breast, under the areola, or around it—based on your unique anatomy and desired outcome.

There are two primary approaches to explant surgery:

  • Implant removal only: The surgeon removes just the breast implant.
  • Implant and capsule removal: In some cases, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) is also removed. 

Whether or not the capsule is taken out depends on your specific health needs, implant condition, and aesthetic goals—this will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation.

The implants are then carefully removed through the incision, and a breast lift may be done to tighten the loose skin and improve the appearance of the breasts. 

Your surgeon will close the opening using fine sutures, medical adhesives, or surgical clips to encourage optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Recovery

Following your implant removal, you can expect mild swelling and tightness, which typically subsides within a few days. 

Light activity can resume within 7–10 days, with full recovery in 4–6 weeks. You may wear a gentle compression garment to support healing, and personalised follow-ups ensure your results evolve beautifully.

Physical results after going flat: What the chest typically looks like after breast implant removal?

After the implants are removed, the chest will appear noticeably flatter. Some individuals may have a smooth, natural contour, while others might notice some deflation, wrinkling, or sagging skin. 

The final appearance evolves over several weeks to months as the tissues settle and the body heals.

Factors that influence your final look

  • Skin elasticity: Firm and resilient skin may retract more smoothly after surgery. Looser skin may take longer to adapt or remain somewhat stretched.
  • Implant size & duration: Larger implants or long-term implantation may leave behind more stretched skin and breast tissue loss.
  • Surgical technique used: Whether a capsulectomy (removal of the implant capsule) or a skin-tightening procedure (like a lift) is done can significantly affect the outcome.
  • Natural tissue volume: Women with more native breast tissue may retain some shape or fullness even after removal.

While the changes can be surprising at first, many individuals find that they adjust physically and emotionally over time—embracing the freedom that comes with going flat.

breast implant removal cost south africa

Breast implant removal side effects

While most women experience a smooth recovery, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects after breast implant removal:

  • Temporary discomfort or swelling
  • Changes in breast shape or volume
  • Seroma, or fluid buildup
  • Asymmetry 
  • Loose skin
  • Numbness or increased sensitivity in nipples
  • Infection or bleeding
  • Scarring

FAQs

While exact pricing can differ between regions and clinics, breast implant removal cost South Africa is influenced by the complexity of the procedure and whether other corrective treatments are included. Always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon for accurate, individualized pricing.

It’s common to experience some sagging after implants are removed, especially if the implants were large or in place for many years. The extent depends on factors like skin elasticity, natural breast tissue, and whether a lift is performed during removal.

Some individuals choose to “go flat,” especially if they prefer a natural chest contour or want to avoid further surgeries. This decision is personal and often based on lifestyle, aesthetics, or health concerns.

Breast implant removal before and after photos show that outcomes vary widely. Some women retain a natural contour, while others may have loose skin, reduced volume, or changes in nipple position. The final appearance is influenced by age, implant size, and overall tissue quality.

Visit Vivari Aesthetics for breast implant removal in South Africa

At Vivari Aesthetics, breast implant removal is more than a procedure—it’s a journey toward reclaiming your confidence and comfort. Our experienced team is committed to holistic recovery, offering expert care tailored to your goals and exclusive post-operative support at Vivari AfterCare.

If you’re considering breast implant removal in South Africa, trust Vivari Aesthetics for expert guidance, compassionate care, and results that reflect your true self.