Not feeling like yourself with implants—or just ready to move on? Dr. Robert Whitfield, board-certified plastic surgeon in Austin, focuses on explant surgery with a whole-health recovery plan. Many patients also choose fat transfer to restore natural shape after removal.
What gets removed? Your implants and the scar capsules around them. In most cases, we aim to remove the capsule completely; when conditions allow, we remove the implant and capsule together (“en bloc”), keeping it intact.
Why remove the capsule? Scar capsules can harbor debris or biofilms and may contribute to inflammation. Removing the capsule helps create a clean, healthy pocket.
Will I have drains? Many patients do not need external drains with our approach. We use meticulous technique, supportive dressings, and post-op care to manage fluid and swelling. If drains are in your best interest, we’ll explain why.
If you want to keep a natural look or address deflation after removal, fat transfer (fat grafting) can restore soft, proportional shape using your own tissue. Fat is gently harvested with liposuction, purified, and placed precisely throughout the breast for smooth, natural contours.
Explant is a major step—but it’s not the only step. SHARP is our structured program to lower inflammation and support detoxification pathways, gut and hormone balance, and overall healing. It’s also available to non-surgical patients who want a guided recovery plan.
1) Discovery Call & Photos
Share your goals, history, and current concerns. A coordinator will walk you through next steps and timing.
2) Consultation (virtual or in-person)
We confirm candidacy, review your options (explant only, lift, fat transfer), and map your plan.
3) Surgery Day
Explant with total or en-bloc capsulectomy. If planned, lift and/or fat transfer are done in the same setting.
4) Recovery & Follow-Up
Most daily activities resume in ~2–3 weeks; avoid heavy lifting/exertion longer. You’ll receive a step-by-step guide, lymphatic support, and scheduled follow-ups.
Investment varies by plan and complexity. Explant surgery starts at $17,000, and financing is available through PatientFi. We do not bill insurance.
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We care for patients from across Texas and beyond. We offer virtual consultations and provide detailed travel, lodging, and follow-up guidance so your trip is smooth and predictable.
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Do you always remove the entire capsule?
We aim for complete capsule removal whenever it’s safe and appropriate. When feasible, we remove the implant and capsule together (en bloc). If the capsule is too thin or adhered, we’ll remove it completely in sections.
Do you offer lift at the same time?
Yes—if you want to improve shape and position after removal, a lift can often be combined in the same surgery.
Who’s a good candidate for fat transfer?
If you want a natural look with subtle to moderate volume, fat transfer is an excellent option. We’ll also confirm you have adequate donor sites for liposuction.
Will I need drains?
Often no. We use drain-free techniques when appropriate; if drains are the safer option in your case, we’ll explain why and for how long.
How long is recovery?
Many patients return to light, non-strenuous activity in 2–3 weeks. We’ll personalize your plan based on your procedure, job demands, and home support.
Can I do SHARP without surgery?
Yes. SHARP is available for non-surgical patients who want a guided approach to reduce inflammation and support recovery.
Location: 2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746