Why Women in Vancouver are Choosing to Remove Their Breast Implants
The decision to undergo breast implant removal is becoming increasingly common among women in Vancouver and across the country. While breast augmentation has long been a popular procedure, more and more women are reevaluating their choices and opting to return to their natural bodies. Whether it's for health concerns, changing beauty ideals, or simply a desire to feel more comfortable in their own skin, the motivations behind explant surgery are deeply personal and varied.
Over the past decade, conversations around body autonomy, wellness, and self-acceptance have gained momentum. Women are prioritizing their long-term health and aesthetic goals, and in many cases, that means removing implants altogether. For some, the desire to live a more active lifestyle without the physical constraints of implants is the driving force. For others, concerns surrounding Breast Implant Illness (BII) or implant-related complications have led to a decision to explant.
At the same time, advancements in plastic surgery have provided women with more options than ever before. From fat grafting to breast lifts, modern techniques offer alternatives for maintaining or enhancing natural contours post-explant. Whether someone is experiencing discomfort, seeking a new chapter in their life, or simply wanting a change, breast implant removal is a highly individualized choice—one that deserves careful consideration and expert guidance.
In this article, we’ll explore the key reasons behind the rise in breast implant removal, examine local and national trends, and discuss what options exist for women who want to embrace a natural look after explant surgery.
Personal and Medical Reasons for Removal
Breast implant removal is a highly personal decision, often influenced by a combination of aesthetic preferences, medical concerns, and lifestyle changes. While some women choose to remove their implants due to shifting beauty ideals or a desire for a more natural appearance, others are motivated by medical complications, discomfort, or systemic symptoms they believe are linked to their implants.
Changing Aesthetic Preferences
Over time, personal preferences and societal beauty standards evolve. Many women who once desired larger breasts now find themselves drawn to a more natural, proportional look. Some patients seek explant surgery to better align with their current self-image, especially as they enter different life stages, such as motherhood or menopause. Others may feel that their implants no longer complement their active lifestyle, as physical activities like running, yoga, and weight training can be hindered by added breast volume.
Physical Discomfort and Complications
For some women, implants may cause persistent physical discomfort. Large or improperly placed implants can contribute to:
Chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain due to the extra weight on the chest.
Skin stretching and thinning, leading to visible implant edges or rippling.
Capsular contracture, a condition where scar tissue forms around the implant, causing tightness, pain, and distortion.
Implant rupture or leakage, which can lead to further complications and require surgical intervention.
These physical concerns can significantly impact a woman’s daily life and overall comfort, making implant removal an attractive solution.
Breast Implant Illness (BII) and Systemic Symptoms
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a controversial but increasingly discussed condition where women report systemic symptoms they believe are caused by their implants. Though not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis, thousands of women have reported symptoms such as:
Chronic fatigue
Joint and muscle pain
Brain fog or memory issues
Autoimmune-like symptoms
Skin rashes and inflammation
Unexplained weight changes
Many patients who suspect they have BII opt for implant removal to see if their symptoms improve. While research is ongoing, some women report a noticeable reduction or resolution of symptoms after explant surgery.
Concerns About Implant Safety
Though breast implants are FDA-approved and considered safe for most patients, concerns about their long-term effects continue to surface. In recent years, textured implants have been linked to a rare type of lymphoma called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). While the risk is low, it has led some women to proactively remove their implants for peace of mind.
Additionally, the possibility of silent rupture in silicone implants—where leaks go undetected without imaging—has raised concerns about implant longevity and the necessity of regular MRI screenings.
Life Changes and Practical Considerations
As women navigate different stages of life, their priorities and needs change. Some women remove their implants after pregnancy and breastfeeding, finding that their breast shape has naturally evolved. Others may no longer wish to undergo the cost and recovery of future implant maintenance, such as replacements or corrective surgeries.
Women undergoing major life transitions—such as career changes, personal transformations, or even a shift in relationship dynamics—may see implant removal as part of a broader journey toward self-acceptance and body confidence.
Trends and Statistics: Local and National
Breast implant removal has been steadily increasing in popularity, both in Portland and across the United States. While breast augmentation remains one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures, a growing number of women are opting for explant surgery. Whether due to medical concerns, changing beauty ideals, or lifestyle shifts, this trend highlights the evolving nature of aesthetic choices and the increasing emphasis on individualized patient care.
National Trends in Breast Implant Removal
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has reported a steady rise in breast implant removal surgeries over the last decade. In recent years, explant procedures have increased by approximately 30%, reflecting a significant shift in patient preferences. Several factors have contributed to this rise:
Increased awareness of Breast Implant Illness (BII) and concerns about systemic symptoms.
The FDA’s growing research on Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
The popularity of smaller, more natural-looking breasts in modern beauty trends.
Social media influence, where women openly share their explant experiences.
The desire to reduce future surgeries, as implants require maintenance and potential replacement over time.
Many women who initially sought implants in the 1990s and early 2000s are now considering removal or replacement as they enter different life stages. This generational shift is shaping the way surgeons approach breast aesthetics, with an increasing emphasis on breast lift procedures, fat transfer, and natural contouring techniques as alternatives to implants.
Local Trends: Why Women in Vancouver, WA Are Choosing Explant Surgery
In Vancouver, Washington, and the greater Portland metro area, the trend toward breast implant removal mirrors national patterns. However, several regional factors contribute to the decision for local women:
Pacific Northwest Lifestyle – Many women in the region lead active, outdoors-focused lifestyles that prioritize movement, fitness, and comfort. Activities like hiking, yoga, and running can be hindered by larger implants, leading some women to opt for removal.
Aesthetic Preferences in the Region – Compared to other parts of the U.S., the Pacific Northwest has a strong preference for natural beauty and subtle enhancements. Women here are more inclined to choose smaller, proportionate breasts that align with their overall physique.
Access to Skilled Surgeons – The growing number of experienced plastic surgeons in Portland and Vancouver specializing in explant surgery has made removal procedures more accessible.
Health-Conscious Culture – Many women in this region prioritize holistic wellness, which includes reducing foreign materials in their bodies. This mindset aligns with the decision to remove implants, especially if they suspect they are experiencing health issues related to them.
Changing Beauty Standards and Social Influence
In addition to medical and lifestyle considerations, shifting beauty standards have played a significant role in the rise of explant surgery. While full, augmented breasts were once a dominant aesthetic ideal, today’s beauty trends emphasize proportion, balance, and a more natural look. Celebrities and influencers who have publicly shared their explant journeys have contributed to this change, helping to normalize implant removal and expand conversations around body autonomy and self-acceptance.
Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, have allowed women to document their experiences with implant removal, recovery, and results. This transparency has empowered more women to explore their options and make informed decisions about their own bodies.
The Future of Breast Implant Removal
As more women seek breast implant removal, plastic surgeons are adapting by offering more customized, patient-centric solutions. Procedures like:
Breast lifts (mastopexy) to restore shape and firmness post-implant removal.
Fat transfer techniques to add subtle volume using the patient’s own body fat.
Minimal-scar explant techniques to improve aesthetic outcomes.
These innovations ensure that patients who choose to remove their implants have options that align with their aesthetic goals and lifestyle needs.
Breast Implant Illness (BII): Symptoms and Responses
Understanding Breast Implant Illness: A Controversial Yet Growing Concern
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used by patients and some physicians to describe a wide range of systemic symptoms that are attributed to breast implants. Unlike Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)—a rare, documented cancer linked to textured implants—BII is not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis by the FDA or major plastic surgery organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
Despite the lack of a universally accepted medical classification, many women report chronic, unexplained symptoms that they associate with their implants. This growing patient-reported phenomenon has prompted more research into the potential immune system interactions related to breast implants.
What Are the Reported Symptoms of BII?
Women experiencing BII describe a wide array of nonspecific symptoms, making it difficult to establish a clear diagnostic pattern. Commonly reported symptoms include:
Chronic fatigue
Joint and muscle pain
Brain fog and memory issues
Skin rashes and dryness
Unexplained weight fluctuations
Gastrointestinal problems (bloating, IBS-like symptoms)
Hair loss
Anxiety and depression
Insomnia
Cold sensitivity
Because these symptoms overlap with numerous autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, it remains challenging to determine whether breast implants are a direct cause or whether they contribute to an underlying immune response in predisposed individuals.
Scientific Research on BII: What Do Studies Say?
Current research on BII is limited but growing. Several studies have attempted to determine whether there is a causal link between breast implants and systemic illness:
FDA Research and Reporting: The FDA has been actively monitoring patient-reported BII symptoms. While no conclusive link has been established, they acknowledge that some women feel better after explant surgery.
2018 Systematic Review (Singh et al., Aesthetic Surgery Journal): This review analyzed multiple studies on breast implants and systemic disease risk and found no definitive evidence linking implants to autoimmune conditions.
2019 MD Anderson Study (Cohen Tervaert et al.): A retrospective analysis suggested that women with silicone implants may have a slightly higher risk of developing autoimmune symptoms compared to the general population. However, more research is needed.
National Cancer Institute (NCI) Data: The NCI has evaluated long-term implant safety and has found no significant evidence linking implants to increased systemic diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Autoimmune and Inflammatory Responses: Could There Be a Connection?
Some researchers propose that silicone implants may act as a trigger in certain genetically predisposed individuals, potentially leading to an inflammatory or autoimmune-like response. This hypothesis is based on:
Silicone’s Interaction with the Immune System: Studies suggest that silicone particles can be detected in lymph nodes near implants, though their effect on systemic health is unclear.
Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation: Some patients with BII report elevated inflammatory markers, though this is not universally observed.
Molecular Mimicry Hypothesis: A theory suggests that foreign materials (like implants) might confuse the immune system into attacking normal tissues, leading to symptoms resembling autoimmune diseases.
While these theories are scientifically intriguing, they have not yet been definitively proven in large, peer-reviewed studies.
Diagnosis: Is There a Way to Test for BII?
There is no specific test for Breast Implant Illness, which makes diagnosis challenging. If a patient experiences unexplained symptoms, a comprehensive medical evaluation should include:
Thorough clinical history and symptom tracking
Autoimmune and inflammatory marker testing (ANA, CRP, ESR, etc.)
Hormonal and metabolic assessments
Assessment for unrelated underlying conditions
Many plastic surgeons work collaboratively with rheumatologists, endocrinologists, and integrative medicine specialists to ensure a well-rounded approach to unexplained symptoms.
Treatment Options: Does Explant Surgery Help?
Anecdotally, many women report symptom improvement after breast implant removal (explant surgery), particularly when combined with capsulectomy (removal of the scar tissue around the implant). However, scientific data on post-explant outcomes is limited and mixed:
2020 ASPS Report: A survey of explant patients found that some reported significant symptom relief, while others experienced no change or continued to have symptoms.
Placebo Effect Considerations: Some researchers speculate that psychological factors may contribute to symptom relief post-explant.
Autoimmune-Related Cases: In women with a confirmed autoimmune disease, explant surgery may help reduce chronic inflammation, but it is not always a cure.
The decision to remove implants should be highly individualized and based on comprehensive medical evaluation and patient goals.
The Need for Further Research
Breast Implant Illness remains a complex and controversial topic in plastic surgery. While current scientific evidence does not definitively prove a link between implants and systemic illness, patient-reported symptoms cannot be ignored. As research evolves, a better understanding of immune responses to implants may emerge.
For patients experiencing unexplained health issues, an open discussion with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best first step. Whether opting for monitoring, additional medical evaluations, or explant surgery, personalized care is key to achieving both health and aesthetic goals.
Alternatives to Implants After Removal
For many women, the decision to remove breast implants is deeply personal. Whether it’s due to health concerns, discomfort, aesthetic preferences, or a lifestyle change, explant surgery often leads to the question: What are my options after implant removal? While some patients choose to leave their breasts in their natural state post-explant, others explore alternative procedures to maintain volume, shape, and symmetry. Below, we discuss the most common alternatives to breast implants after removal.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: A Natural Approach
One of the most popular alternatives to breast implants after explant surgery is fat grafting (also known as autologous fat transfer). This procedure involves:
Harvesting fat from areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or back using liposuction.
Processing the fat to remove impurities and excess fluids.
Injecting purified fat into the breast tissue to restore volume and shape.
Benefits of Fat Transfer
Natural Results: Uses the patient’s own fat, reducing the risk of rejection or foreign body reactions.
No Implants Required: Eliminates concerns about implant-related complications.
Body Contouring Bonus: The liposuction aspect helps sculpt other areas of the body while enhancing the breasts.
Lower Risk of Scarring: Fat transfer requires only small incisions for liposuction and injections, leading to minimal scarring.
Considerations
Limited Volume Enhancement: Fat grafting can provide a modest increase in breast size, usually one cup size or less per session.
Variable Fat Retention: Some of the transferred fat will be naturally reabsorbed by the body. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.
Requires Adequate Fat Reserves: Lean patients with low body fat may not have enough fat for transfer.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Reshaping the Natural Breast
For women who experience breast sagging (ptosis) after implant removal, a breast lift (mastopexy) can help restore a youthful, lifted appearance. This procedure involves:
Removing excess skin to reshape the breast contour.
Lifting the nipple-areola complex to a more youthful position.
Tightening the breast tissue to improve firmness and support.
Benefits of a Breast Lift
Improves Breast Position and Shape: Particularly beneficial for patients experiencing sagging due to skin laxity post-implant removal.
Enhances Symmetry: Helps correct asymmetry that may occur after explant surgery.
Can Be Combined with Fat Grafting: For those who desire both lift and volume, a breast lift with fat transfer can be a highly effective combination.
Considerations
Does Not Add Volume: A breast lift reshapes and lifts the breast but does not increase size. Patients seeking volume may benefit from fat transfer or small implants.
Scarring: Mastopexy involves incisions, which result in some scarring. However, scars generally fade over time.
Smaller, Lightweight Implants (If Full Removal Isn’t Desired)
Some women choose to replace their existing implants with smaller, lighter implants that better suit their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This is an option for those who still desire breast enhancement but want a more subtle, natural result.
Benefits of Downsizing Implants
Reduced Physical Discomfort: Smaller implants put less strain on the back, shoulders, and chest muscles.
More Natural Look and Feel: Advances in implant technology offer lightweight options such as cohesive silicone gel implants that provide a more natural aesthetic.
Maintains Volume Without Excess Bulk: Some patients feel more comfortable with a smaller implant instead of full removal.
Considerations
Implants Still Require Maintenance: While smaller implants may be more comfortable, they still come with long-term considerations, such as potential future revision surgery.
Allowing Natural Healing: Embracing Your Natural Breasts
Many women opt to fully embrace their natural breast shape after implant removal without additional procedures. The body’s natural healing process will determine how the breasts settle post-explant, and for some patients, this is the preferred route.
Benefits of Going Natural
No Additional Surgery Required: Eliminates the need for additional procedures, downtime, and costs.
No Foreign Materials: For those who prefer a fully natural approach, avoiding implants or fat transfer may be ideal.
Minimal Risk of Complications: Explantation alone has fewer risks compared to combined procedures.
Considerations
Potential for Volume Loss and Sagging: Some women may find that their natural breasts lack fullness or firmness after explant surgery.
Longer Adjustment Period: It may take several months for the skin to retract and the breasts to settle into their new shape.
Choosing the Right Option for You
The best alternative to implants after removal depends on individual goals, body composition, and lifestyle preferences. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine the most appropriate approach based on breast tissue quality, skin elasticity, and aesthetic desires.
For women considering explant surgery, exploring all available options ensures that they achieve both aesthetic satisfaction and long-term comfort in their decision.
Finding the Right Path After Breast Implant Removal
The decision to remove breast implants is a deeply personal one, influenced by factors such as health concerns, aesthetic goals, lifestyle changes, or simply a desire to return to a more natural appearance. For many women in Vancouver, the process doesn’t end with explant surgery—it’s about determining what comes next. Fortunately, there are several excellent alternatives to implants that can help women feel comfortable and confident in their bodies after removal.
For those who wish to maintain some degree of volume, fat transfer breast augmentation is a natural solution that offers subtle enhancement without the need for implants. Women experiencing sagging or skin laxity after implant removal may benefit from a breast lift (mastopexy) to restore a youthful, perky shape. Others may choose to embrace their natural breasts, allowing their bodies to heal and settle into their new shape without additional procedures. And for those who still desire breast enhancement, downsizing to smaller, lighter implants remains a viable option.
Regardless of the approach, each woman’s journey is unique, and the best path forward depends on individual goals, anatomy, and long-term preferences. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the key to making an informed decision, ensuring that the outcome aligns with both aesthetic desires and overall well-being.
At the heart of this decision is the freedom to choose—whether that means pursuing an alternative procedure or embracing a more natural look. With expert guidance, thoughtful planning, and the right surgical approach, women can achieve a result that makes them feel comfortable, confident, and empowered in their bodies.