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West Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon

Implant Explantation
(Total Capsulectomy)

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we perform implant explantation (total capsulectomy) procedures to address the health concerns of patients seeking removal of breast implants visiting our location in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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Implant Explantation (Total Capsulectomy) in West Palm Beach, Florida

Breast implants and their potential health effects have been the subject of ongoing medical research. Numerous women worldwide have shared their experiences of unexplained inflammatory symptoms that they believe are connected to their implants. The medical community has conflicting views on whether these symptoms can be classified as a distinct illness known as Breast Implant Illness (BII) as the FDA continues to investigate the causes, risk factors, and prevalence of breast implant illness. However, it has been definitively established that textured implants are directly associated with a specific form of lymphoma called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

On July 10, 2019, Dr. Barr announced on WPTV that he would no longer perform breast implant surgeries.

Some plastic surgeons and other medical professionals use the term Breast Implant Illness (BII) to describe this phenomenon. According to studies, symptoms tend to disappear after implant removal surgery.

Breast Implant Removal and Women’s Concerns Over Persistent Symptoms

Many women with breast implants often experience some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Brain fog
  • Skin rashes
  • Hair loss
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Weight gain
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Thyroid problems
  • Hair loss
  • Digestive problems

When there is no environmental factor,  medical condition, or other explanation for what could be causing these symptoms, women with breast implants discuss the possibility of implant removal surgery with a plastic surgeon, hoping they will subside after the implants are removed.

Are you dealing with unexplained, debilitating symptoms? Get insights from Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S. of Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, a seasoned expert in working with BII patients. The sensitive nature of this issue is not lost on him. He has witnessed the medical gaslighting many women face from doctors who dismiss breast implant illness. 

Despite the lack of official recognition, Dr. Barr is so committed to this cause that he stopped performing breast implants in 2018. “Due to ongoing FDA and clinical investigation, along with heightened patient concerns and reports regarding breast implants, I have chosen NOT to perform breast implants,” said Dr. Barr. 

He firmly believes that a surgeon must truly listen to patients, take their symptoms seriously, and empower them with the knowledge to make informed choices about their health.

Exploring Breast Implant Explantation & Health Concerns Connected to Breast Implants

Patients seeking to remove breast implants need a compassionate healthcare provider and surgeon who believes them when they report symptoms connected to their breast implants. We can explore whether Breast Implant Explantation may be an appropriate option to address your symptoms if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Allergies
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Thyroid hormone dysfunction
  • Low energy
  • Brain fog
  • Memory loss
  • Headaches
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Hair loss
  • Repeated infections
  • Swollen lymph nodes and glands
  • Rashes
  • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Weight loss
  • Insomnia

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Barr.

Because every woman’s experience with breast implants is unique, the best way to gain insight and ask personal questions is to talk to Dr. Barr about your situation.

Call for FREE Consultation with Dr Barr – (561) 833-4122

Find A Doctor That Will Listen

“My advice to anyone is if there is any issue at all with your breasts, go see your physician, and if you don’t get the information that you are thinking should be appropriate, then go find somebody else. You need to be listened to and heard and evaluated,” says Barr.

One month after Amy’s breast explant surgery, “My thyroid is functioning properly for the first time in years. My hormones are coming back into balance. My posture is better, my neck and spine don’t hurt all the time, my complexion is clearer and I have more energy,” she says.

Smaller… But Safer — The Choice Is Yours

The decision to get implants lies solely with the patient, and it is up to them to choose whether or not to have them removed. While the scientific community may still be uncertain about the long-term effects of silicone implants, clearly, many women genuinely believe their implants are negatively impacting their bodies. These women deserve to have their concerns recognized.

Dr. Barr suggests that these women consider removing their implants and any surrounding scar tissue to potentially alleviate the adverse reactions they are experiencing. After implant removal, patients have two options: they can either choose to not pursue any further treatment or undergo mastopexy, a procedure that reshapes breast tissue to enhance the cosmetic appearance of the breasts.

 

The Decision to Have Breast Implant
Removal Surgery

Many women facing the complex and controversial issue of Breast Implant Illness have felt lost and uncertain. While medical research is still ongoing, some women have found relief by removing their breast implants. Dr. Barr offers a comprehensive procedure, tackling both the implants and surrounding scar tissue, for patients who understand the potential side effects and desire removal. If you're considering implant removal, consult a trusted plastic surgeon who truly listens and educates you on your options. With Dr. Barr's informative and compassionate approach, you can feel at ease making this life-changing decision.

Understanding the En Bloc Social Media Buzz Around Breast Implant Removal

En bloc, a French term meaning "all together," is a procedure commonly used to remove tumors with a margin of healthy tissue when there is a suspicion of malignancy or cancer. However, en bloc breast implant removal is not recommended for the removal of breast implants in cases where there is no malignancy present.

En bloc has gained buzz on social media platforms, causing some confusion among patients who incorrectly believe that it can be used as a solution for symptoms related to Breast Implant Illness (BII).  However, en bloc breast implant removal is specifically designed as a treatment for anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), and not for addressing BII symptoms.

Total Capsulectomy Breast Implant
Removal Surgery

In contrast to an en bloc breast implant removal, a total capsulectomy performed by Dr. Barr removes the scar tissue surrounding the implant and the implant itself, making every effort to remove the capsule in one intact piece. This thorough breast implant removal surgery focuses solely on removing the scar capsule and implant without unnecessary tissue removal. For women experiencing symptoms caused by their breast implants, a total capsulectomy can potentially provide the solution they seek. Rest assured, Dr. Barr ensures the complete removal of the capsule for optimal results.

Total Capsulectomy Dissection

The terminology about breast implants and scar tissue can create confusion, but the three most important terms to know are:

  • Implant – This refers to the breast implant itself, which can be saline or silicone.
  • Capsulectomy: This procedure removes the capsule around the implant. This type of breast implant removal is usually done when the capsule feels hard or when permanently removing breast implants.
  • Total Capsulectomy: In this breast implant removal procedure, the plastic surgeon removes both the capsule and implant in one piece, with the implant contained within the capsule.

Find Support for BII and Answers to Your Breast Implant Removal Questions

If you’re experiencing symptoms of BII, please take heart that you’re not alone. Many other women who have had a similar experience are ready to support you in groups like the Breast Explant Solution Group on Facebook, founded by Dr. Barr. They know how it feels and can share their experiences to help you decide what’s best for your situation. You’ll interact with many women dealing with the same side effects who can confirm that what you’re going through is real.

The Healing Journey After Having Breast Implants Removed

Embarking on the healing journey as an explant patient is a new chapter in your life. This journey elicits various emotional, physical, and spiritual changes. Emotionally, you may face a range of issues as you realize that the reasons for your breast implantation no longer align with who you are today. To provide support and understanding, we highly recommend seeking the guidance of a counselor or therapist. Our patient counselors are also here for you.

Physically, the first six weeks of healing may present challenges such as limited movement and exercise. Throughout the initial six months, you will notice significant changes in scarring and breast shape. Various treatment options — including lasers, injections, topical remedies, lymphatic drainage massage, and scar massage — can help minimize scarring. Additionally, irregularities or deformities can often be improved with future procedures like mastopexy, scar revision, and fat transfer. Regularly communicating and attending follow-up appointments with Dr. Barr will play a crucial role in your healing process.

For those who chose explantation to alleviate symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII), this experience can be liberating as your health improves, although this is not always the case. However, for those solely focused on the physical appearance of their breasts, this journey can be incredibly challenging. Remember, everyone's journey and outcome are unique, and it is unfair to compare yourself to others, as healing varies greatly based on individual genetics and circumstances.

Dr. Barr and his dedicated staff are fully committed to supporting you through this complex decision, which, like life itself, will have its ups and downs. Rest assured that our entire team is here to stand by you throughout your recovery.

Life After Breast Implant Removal

Many women report increased energy, less pain and inflammation, and a restored sense of well-being after explantation surgery. Although you will face some challenges after having breast implants removed as you navigate physical and emotional healing, for most patients like BII warrior Alison Liddic, the benefits of breast implant removal are worth undergoing the healing process.

Introducing "Under My Implants" - An Exclusive Well World TV Original Series

Join Dr. Barr as he uncovers the untold narratives behind women's implants in this groundbreaking reality-based show. Delve into the life-changing factors that propelled them towards surgery, and witness the empowering journey of their implant removal process. Prepare to be moved and inspired.

Watch the compelling trailer below.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been regulating the use of silicone breast implants since 1976. The FDA lifted their previous 14-year ban on silicone gel-filled implants approving the newly-created and more cohesive gel implants in 2006.

FDA Statement Regarding Breast Implants

Read the latest statement from The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons have been working collaboratively to keep plastic surgeons informed of the latest information on breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

Remember: Every woman’s experience with breast implants is unique to them, and the best way to gain knowledge and ask personal questions would be to schedule a consultation with Dr. Barr.

Call for FREE Consultation with Dr Barr – (561) 833-4122

*Join the discussion:
Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events and discussions on Total Capsulectomy Link

Disclaimer

Please understand Dr. Barr will do his very best to achieve a pleasing result – HOWEVER, due to the unknown effects of tissue damage caused by the implant and its removal, cosmetic results are unpredictable and cannot be guaranteed.

Available Medical Studies About
Breast Implant Illness

1. Scleroderma Like esophageal disease in children breast-fed by mothers with silicone breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
2. Immune functional impairment in patients with clinical abnormalities and silicone breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
3. Suppressed natural killer cell activity in patients with silicone breast implants: reversal upon explantation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
4. Silicone-induced modulation of natural killer cell activity. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
5. An association of silicone-gel breast implant rupture and fibromyalgia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
6. Antibody to silicone and native macromolecules in women with silicone breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
7. Cellular immune reactivities in women with silicone breast implants: a preliminary investigation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
8. Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
9. Silicone breast implant rupture presenting as bilateral leg nodules. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
10. Intrapulmonary and cutaneous siliconomas after silent silicone breast implant failure. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
11. Silicon granuloma mimicking lung cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
12. Neck lymphadenitis due to silicone granuloma. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
13. Silicone Toxicology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
14. Locoregional silicone spread after high cohesive gel silicone implant rupture. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
15. Silicon granulomas and dermatomyositis like changes associated with chronic eyelid edema. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
16. Demonstration of silicon in the sites of connective-tissue disease in patients with silicone gel breast implant. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
17. Systemic sclerosis after augmentation with silicone breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
18. Human adjuvant disease following augmentation mammoplasty. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
19. Increase urinary NO3(-) + NO2- and neopterin excretion in children breast fed by mothers with silicone breast implants: evidence for macrophage activation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
20. Esophageal dysmotility in children breast-fed by mother with silicone breast implants. Long term followup and response to treatment. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
21. Silicone gel breast implant rupture, extracapsular silicone, and health status. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
23. Microscopic Polyangiitis following silicone exposure from breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
24. Left unilateral breast autoinflation https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
25. The semi-permeability of silicone: a saline-filled breast implant with Aspergillus flavus (fungus). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
26. Paecilomyces variotii contamination in the lumen of a saline filled breast implant. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
27. Microbial growth inside saline filled breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
28. Detection of subclinical infection in significant breast implant capsules https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
29. Infections in breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
30. Vertical Transmission of Babesiosis Microti, US https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/art...
31. Current management of human granulocytic anaplasmosis, human monocytic ehrlichiosis and Ehrlichia ewingii ehrlichiosis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/art...
32. Importance of histological analysis of seroma fluid to check for ALCL. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
33. Promotion of variant human mammary epithelial cell outgrowth by ionizing radiation: an agent-based model supported by in vitro studies. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
34. Implant infection after augmentation mammaplasty: a review of the literature and report of a multidrug-resistant Candida albicans infection. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov21717259
35. Stimulation of T lymphocytes by silica after use of silicone mammary implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
36. Severe Asia Syndrome associated with lymph node, thoracic and pulmonary penetration by silicone https://m.lup.sagepub.com/content/24...
37. Rupture and intrapleural migration of Cohesive Silicone Gel Implant https://asaps.confex.com/asaps/2011...
38. Lipogranulomatosis and hypersplenism induced by ruptured silicone breast implants https://m.bloodjournal.org/content/1...
39. The spectrum of ASIA: ‘Autoimmune (Auto-inflammatory) Syndrome induced by Adjuvants’ https://m.lup.sagepub.com/content/21...
40. Intrapulmonary and cutaneous siliconomas after silent silicone breast implant failure https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
41. Silicone breast implant rupture presenting as bilateral leg nodules https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
42. Microbial Growth Inside Saline Implants: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
43. Endocrine activity of persistent organic pollutants accumulated in human silicone implants–Dosing in vitro assays by partitioning from silicone. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubm...
44. Residual silicone detection using mri following previous breast implant removal: Case reports https://link.springer.com/article/10...
45. Complications related to retained breast implant capsules https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
46. TILT – Toxicity Syndrome Introduced by Metals and Chemicals including Breast Implants https://drclaudiamiller.com/category...
47. Silicone breast implants and autoimmunity: causation, association, or myth? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
48. Adjuvant Breast Disease: An Evaluation of 100 Symptomatic Women with Breast Implants Or Silicone Injections and a picture of silicone in breast milk ducts from a ruptured silicone breast implant. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/articl...
49. Anti-collagen auto-antibodies are found in women with silicone breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
50. Silicone Review: https://alt.support.breast-implant.narkive.com/...
51. Silicone breast implant associated musculoskeletal manifestations https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
52. Silicone breast prosthesis and rheumatoid arthritis: a new systemic disease: siliconosis. A case report and critical review of the literature. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
53. Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a case report and reconstructive option. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
54. Radiological trap and oncological precautions in a patient who has undergone a permanent withdrawal of PIP breast implants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
55. Late massive breast implant seroma in postpartum. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
56. Late seroma during pregnancy, a rare complication in prosthetic breast augmentation a case report: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
57. Talc deposition in skin and tissues surrounding silicone gel-containing prosthetic devices. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
58. Silicone breast implants, autoimmunity and the gut. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/art...
59. Silicone breast implant-induced lymphadenopathy: 18 Cases https://www.sciencedirect.com/scienc...
60. Is explantation of silicone breast implants useful in patients with complaints?https://link.springer.com/article/10...
61. Seroma in Prosthetic Breast Reconstructionhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
62. Severe manifestation of autoimmune syndrome induced by adjuvants (Shoenfeld’s Syndrome) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov...
63. Hypercalcemia as a consequence of modern cosmetic treatment with liquid silicone https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/art...
64. Endocrine activity of persistent organic pollutants accumulated in human silicone implants: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubm...
65. The Dark Side of Breast Implants by Frank Vasey: https://www.nyjsm.com/Medicine/Rheumatology/Silicone_Syndrome_Frank_Vasey_ MD.cfm
66.The Breast Implant Working Groups Breast Implant Black Box Warning and Patient Checklist
67. Talking Points
68. Breast Implant Illness: A Way Forward
69. FDA proposes “black-box warning” for breast implants – its strongest form of caution

Breast Explant + Lift Before and After Photos

Breast Explant Before and After Photos

Disclaimers:

As a result of the Total Capsulectomy procedure, you may experience negative cosmetic consequences, including, but not limited to the following: scaring, contour irregularities, asymmetry, volume loss and indentations. Furthermore, there are no guarantees that BII symptoms will resolve after the Total Capsulectomy procedure.

For additional treatments and procedures not listed, please complete our online form to request more information or call (561) 833-4122

Are you Considering Breast Implant Removal to Address BII Symptoms?

Discover the truth about Breast Implant Illness and find the support you need on your journey. Don't let societal critics discourage you from exploring breast implant removal surgery in the form of a total capsulectomy. BII symptoms are real, and they only worsen over time.

Fortunately, there is a solution. Many women have found relief by undergoing explantation. Despite the challenges, this procedure has helped countless women reduce and even eliminate symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, joint pain, and more.

You are not alone in your struggle.

Ready to Consider Breast Implant Removal as a Solution to BII?

If you are ready to discuss your individual experience with BII and the possibility of having implants removed, contact our patient counselor at (561) 833-4122 or complete our online form to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Dr. Barr and the staff at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery are here to empower you with the information and support you deserve. From our initial meeting and throughout implant removal surgery and your recovery period, you’ll receive compassionate care and personalized attention.

Implant Explantation (Total Capsulectomy) | West Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon

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Serving All Of The Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast, Including West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and Surrounding Areas

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we view Plastic Surgery procedures in a direct and honest manner using the principles of either addition, subtraction or a combination of both.

For additional treatments and procedures not listed, please complete the form to the right to request more information or call (561) 833-4122.

Learning Center

We provide a growing multimedia content library to help you to understand and visualize the different procedures we offer. Review the educational information applicable to your situation to help you make informed decisions, ask the right questions, and take the right steps both before and after your procedures.
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Our Faqs

Q

If I am seeking to undergo a combination of procedures, will they be done together or consecutively? What is the timeline for multiple procedures?

A

The answer depends on multiple factors, including the specific combination of procedures, your recovery rates, your age and health status, and your behaviors or habits. More invasive surgeries typically require recovery time ranging between 6 and 12 weeks to 6 months, and surgeries to the same area of your body will also generally require recovery time between procedures.

However, if you are in good health and the combination of procedures in question will be performed on different parts of your body and are not especially invasive, a combination of procedures could potentially be approved together on a case-by-case basis. It is imperative that the combination of procedures does not compromise your healing, and your attention to prescribed pre-operation and recovery habits also plays a significant role. Schedule a consultation for an assessment and guidance regarding the procedures you are considering.


Q

Will it be obvious that I “got work done” after my procedure?

A

While aging affects us all, there are steps we can take to put forth a more vibrant appearance. We seek to perform subtle adjustments to address imperfections and the wear of time while retaining your natural look. While you should notice an improvement, the glaring changes or distortions in appearance you are concerned about and may have seen from other surgeons’ work do not meet the standard of quality plastic and cosmetic surgery we perform in our office.

Dr. Frederic M. Barr is a board-certified Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing Plastic Surgery in South Florida. We enhance and refine your appearance according to your goals. Review our Gallery of Before & After Photos to see some examples of our work.


Q

What does Breast Explant Surgery entail, and will my breasts be “back to normal” after the surgery?

A

For patients with Breast Implant Illness (BII), which can include allergy, auto-immune, and thyroid hormone issues, this has been an emerging topic with significant press coverage in recent years. Although numerous medical professionals have demonstrated varying responses to these women’s concerns, we believe in addressing these women’s experiences and symptoms. In response to this phenomenon, we have also chosen not to perform new breast implant surgeries. We perform Total Capsulectomy on patients with breast implants, which involves the removal of both the saline or silicone implant and the capsule around it.

Removal of the implants and surrounding scar tissue has been shown to improve women’s health concerning these symptoms. While some women choose no further procedure following Breast Explant Surgery, some patients elect to have a Mastopexy procedure that involves reshaping the breast tissue for a pleasant cosmetic breast appearance. We welcome your specific questions regarding these procedures and their anticipated effects for your situation. See our Breast Implant Explantation (Total Capsulectomy) page for more detailed information, including before-and-after photo examples.


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