Breast Implant Removal — New Mexico
New Mexico has no board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant illness or en bloc capsulectomy. For New Mexico women who need a specialist — not a generalist — the path is to travel to an expert.
Dr. Robert Whitfield MD, FACS • Austin, Texas • 2,000+ Explant Procedures
Why New Mexico Patients Choose Dr. Whitfield
New Mexico is served by Austin (AUS) with direct flights on Southwest, United, and American. The flight is approximately 1.5 hours from Albuquerque. Most patients complete a remote consultation first, then travel to Austin for surgery, and recover locally before returning home.
Dr. Whitfield has performed explant surgery for patients from 40+ states and 15 countries. New Mexico patients are seen regularly and are well-supported through the remote consultation and coordination process.
What No Local Surgeon Can Offer
Published research: Whitfield R, Tipton CD, Diaz N, Ancira J, Landry KS. Microorganisms. 2024 Sep 4;12(9):1830. View on PubMed →
How the Process Works for New Mexico Patients
Discovery Call (Remote)
A structured 20-minute call with Dr. Whitfield’s team to review your history, symptoms, implant type, and goals. No travel required.
Surgical Consultation (Remote or In-Person)
Most New Mexico patients complete their full surgical consultation remotely. Pre-operative imaging and records can be submitted in advance.
Surgery in Austin
Surgery is performed at a certified surgical facility in Austin. Most explant procedures take 2–3 hours. An overnight stay in Austin is recommended.
Recovery and Return
Patients typically remain in the Austin area for a short period before returning home. The SHARP Method recovery protocol supports patients before and after surgery regardless of where they live.
About Dr. Robert Whitfield
Office: 2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a BII specialist in New Mexico?
There is no board-certified plastic surgeon in New Mexico who specializes in breast implant illness, en bloc capsulectomy, or PCR capsule testing. General plastic surgeons in Albuquerque and Santa Fe perform breast implant removal, but none have published clinical research in this area or offer a structured recovery protocol.
How do New Mexico patients schedule with Dr. Whitfield?
The process begins with a discovery call — a remote, structured consultation by phone or video. No travel is required for the initial consultation. Most patients complete full surgical planning remotely and travel to Austin only for surgery.
How far is Austin from Albuquerque?
Albuquerque (ABQ) to Austin (AUS) is approximately 1.5 hours by direct flight. Southwest, United, and American all operate this route. The drive is approximately 10 hours via I-25 and I-10.
How long do I need to stay in Austin after surgery?
The length of stay depends on the procedure performed and whether simultaneous fat transfer or other procedures are included. Dr. Whitfield's team provides specific guidance based on your surgical plan. Most out-of-state patients plan for a short post-operative stay before returning home.
Can I do pre-operative and post-operative appointments remotely?
Yes. Pre-operative consultation, medical history review, and post-operative follow-up can all be completed remotely. In-person visits are available for patients who prefer them.
What is the SHARP Method and do I need it?
The SHARP Method (Strategic Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program) is Dr. Whitfield's structured pre- and post-surgical protocol. It is available in three tiers and is designed to optimize recovery and reduce post-operative inflammation. It is not required, but available to all patients regardless of location.
Does Dr. Whitfield perform en bloc capsulectomy?
Yes. En bloc capsulectomy — removing the implant and entire capsule as one intact, sealed unit — is Dr. Whitfield's primary approach for symptomatic patients, including those with BII, Grade III–IV contracture, and suspected or confirmed rupture.
Cities We Serve in New Mexico
Related Resources
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Dr. Robert Whitfield has guided thousands of patients through surgical decisions with clarity, data, and a personalized plan. Your consultation is where that plan begins.
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