Out-of-State Patient Guide

Traveling to Austin for Breast Implant Removal

Dr. Whitfield regularly treats patients who travel from across Texas and from other states for en bloc capsulectomy and BII treatment. Virtual consultations, coordinated logistics, and telehealth follow-up make the process manageable from anywhere.

Your Consultation Destination

Dr. Robert Whitfield MD

2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100Austin, TX 78746

Use this address for your virtual consultation preparation and initial visit. Tap below to open turn-by-turn directions on your phone.

Your Destination

SHARP Surgery Center

4544 S. Lamar Blvd, Suite 655Austin, TX 78745

Please use this address for surgery-day arrival and navigation. Tap below to open turn-by-turn directions on your phone.

20 min

AUS Airport to Office

5–7 days

Typical Austin Stay

100%

Virtual Consult Available

All 50

States Served

Why Patients Travel

What Makes This Practice Worth the Trip

Patients travel to Dr. Whitfield's practice because they are looking for a specific combination of expertise that is rare in any single practice: true en bloc capsulectomy, PCR capsule testing on every specimen, a structured pre-operative preparation protocol, and a surgeon with published peer-reviewed research in the field.

Many traveling patients have already consulted with local surgeons and found that the answers they received did not match the level of specificity they expected. They want a surgeon who understands the biology of BII — not just the mechanics of implant removal.

The practice is designed to accommodate out-of-state patients. Virtual consultations, remote SHARP preparation, coordinated pre-operative testing, and telehealth follow-up mean you only need to be in Austin for the surgery itself and initial recovery.

The SHARP Method begins at first contact — not after surgery.

From the moment a patient engages with Dr. Whitfield's practice, they begin the SHARP Method — reducing inflammation, preparing biologically, and working with a full functional team devoted to detox and pre-surgical care. Surgery is the central event in a longer journey. Some patients are ready in two weeks. Others take two years. The timeline does not matter. The program is working from day one. Post-surgical care continues through the full year of engagement.

International Patients

Patients have traveled from six continents. No competitor in the region offers the SHARP Method with PCR capsule testing as a complete integrated protocol.

VancouverCalgaryWinnipegOttawaSaskatoonKamloopsTorontoMexico CityGuadalajaraPuerto VallartaCancúnLos CabosGuatemala CityBelize CitySan JoséPanama CitySan JuanNassauBogotáMedellínCaliCartagenaCaracasSão PauloRio de JaneiroBuenos AiresBerlinIstanbulSingaporeSydneyAustin TXAustin, TX (Home Base)Austin, TX

🌎North America

Canada

Vancouver · Calgary · Winnipeg · Ottawa · Saskatoon · Kamloops · Toronto

Mexico

Mexico City · Guadalajara · Puerto Vallarta · Cancún · Los Cabos

🌎Central America

Guatemala

Guatemala City

Belize

Belize City

Costa Rica

San José

Panama

Panama City

🌎Caribbean

Puerto Rico

San Juan

Bahamas

Nassau

🌎South America

Colombia

Bogotá · Medellín · Cali · Cartagena

Venezuela

Caracas

Brazil

São Paulo · Rio de Janeiro

Argentina

Buenos Aires

🌍Europe

Germany

Berlin

Turkey

Istanbul

🌏Asia

Singapore

Singapore

🌏Oceania

Australia

Sydney

United States — 40+ States

Patients from every region of the country have traveled to Austin. TOPS (Tulsa) claims 75% out-of-state US reach. Dr. Whitfield's reach includes patients from every US time zone plus six continents internationally.

AKALARAZCACOCTDEFLGAHIIAIDILINKSKYLAMAMDMEMIMNMOMSMTNCNDNENHNJNMNVNYOHOKORPARISCSDTNTXUTVAVTWAWIWVWYPatient home statesOther statesAustin, TX
Patient home states Other states Austin, TX

Pacific Northwest & Alaska

Alaska

Anchorage

Washington

Seattle · Tacoma

Oregon

Portland · Eugene · Bend

California

San Francisco · Los Angeles · San Diego · Sacramento · San Jose · Fresno · Bakersfield · Riverside

Mountain & Southwest

Nevada

Las Vegas · Reno · Fallon

Utah

Salt Lake City · Park City · Heber City

Idaho

Boise

Montana

Billings · Whitefish · Kalispell

Arizona

Phoenix · Scottsdale · Tucson · Flagstaff

New Mexico

Albuquerque · Santa Fe

Texas & Gulf Coast

Texas

Dallas · Houston · Fort Worth · Austin · El Paso · Lubbock · Amarillo · Abilene · Corpus Christi

Louisiana

New Orleans · Baton Rouge · Shreveport

Mississippi

Jackson

Southeast

Alabama

Birmingham · Montgomery · Mobile · Gulf Shores

Georgia

Atlanta · Savannah

Tennessee

Nashville · Memphis · Chattanooga · Knoxville

Carolinas & Mid-Atlantic

North Carolina

Charlotte · Greensboro · Chapel Hill · Raleigh

South Carolina

Charleston

Virginia

Arlington · Richmond

Midwest

Illinois

Chicago

Indiana

Indianapolis · Fort Wayne · Carmel

Ohio

Cincinnati · Dayton

Kentucky

Louisville

Minnesota

Minneapolis

Wisconsin

Madison · Milwaukee

Great Plains & Dakotas

Iowa

Des Moines

Nebraska

Omaha · Lincoln

South Dakota

Sioux Falls · Rapid City

North Dakota

Bismarck

Northeast

Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh

New York

New York City

New Jersey

Multiple cities

Washington DC

Arlington

Travel Patient Questions — By Region

City names in each answer are indexed by Google — allowing the page to surface for searches like "breast implant removal Boise Idaho" or "explant surgeon Sioux Falls."

Recommended Transportation

Austin Premier Rides

Our Top Recommendation

This is our premier choice for luxury, reliable transportation while you are in Austin. We highly recommend booking in advance for seamless, stress-free transit from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) straight to your accommodations or SHARP Surgery Center.

AMENITY MAP

Recovery-Friendly Dining in Austin

Local dining options selected to support a clean, allergen-conscious approach during your stay.

Dining Guide

The Well — Clean Dining

Dr. Whitfield's leading dining recommendation for patients seeking gluten-free, dairy-free, and seed-oil-free options during their Austin stay.

The Well — Westlake

Near the Office

Top Pick
6317 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78746

Clinical Benefit

Convenient for post-op and consultation visits right near the office.

The Well — Downtown

2nd Street

Top Pick
440 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

Clinical Benefit

Great for out-of-town patients staying near the city center.

The Well — Bouldin Creek

South of Downtown

Top Pick
409 W Monroe St, Austin, TX 78704

Clinical Benefit

Our newest recommended neighborhood spot just south of downtown.

Dining Guide

Approved Local Dining Options

Selected Austin restaurants with clean-dining and allergen-conscious options that help patients maintain a low-inflammation diet.

Dai Due

East Austin

2406 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Clinical Benefit

100% seed-oil-free. They cook strictly with Texas olive oil and high-quality animal fats, including beef tallow, making this an excellent low-inflammation option.

ATX Cocina

Downtown

110 San Antonio St, Suite 170, Austin, TX 78701

Clinical Benefit

A completely gluten-free and seed-oil-free dedicated kitchen. Patients can dine here without the typical concern about gluten cross-contamination.

Elizabeth Street Café

South First

1501 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

Clinical Benefit

Offers clean Vietnamese choices, including fully cooked broths and vermicelli bowls, that can make a gluten-free and dairy-free diet simple and enjoyable.

Thai Fresh

Bouldin Creek

909 W Mary St, Austin, TX 78704

Clinical Benefit

Highly accommodating for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, featuring a gluten-free scratch bakery plus fully cooked, gut-friendly Thai curries and stir-fries.

Este

East Austin

2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Dining Note

A contemporary Mexican seafood restaurant in a converted East Austin bungalow, recognized by Michelin for charcoal cooking and coastal Mexican flavors.

Visit Website

Summer on Music Lane

Hotel Magdalena · South Congress

1101 Music Ln, Austin, TX 78704

Dining Note

The full-service Hotel Magdalena restaurant pairs honest Austin cooking with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beautiful outdoor courtyard seating.

Visit Website

Dining Guide

Dedicated Clean Dining & Comfort Foods

Specialized restaurants with strict allergen protocols and clean-eating philosophies for patients and companions.

Picnik — Burnet Road

North Central Austin

4801 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756

Clinical Benefit

100% free of gluten, peanuts, and corn. Picnik specializes in clean comfort foods and butter coffees.

Nômadé Cocina

South Austin

1506 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

Clinical Benefit

A heavily gluten-free, Mayan-inspired menu with robust dairy-free choices, including cooked masa dishes and fresh crudos.

Bulevar Mexican Kitchen

Northwest Austin / Arboretum

9400 Arboretum Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

Clinical Benefit

An upscale Mexican coastal grill with dedicated, highly safe gluten-free kitchen practices.

Marye's Gourmet Pizza

Westlake Hills

3663 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 4G, Austin, TX 78746

Clinical Benefit

Offers highly accommodating gluten-free crust variations and high-quality vegan cheese options for a comfortable, lower-inflammation meal close to the clinic.

Dining Guide

Approved Post-Op Treats

Gluten-free and dairy-free-friendly dessert options for patients looking for a light, locally sourced treat.

Lick Honest Ice Creams — South Lamar

Lamar Union

1100 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 1135, Austin, TX 78704

Clinical Benefit

Uses clean, locally sourced ingredients and highlights scratch-made vegan, coconut-milk-based dairy-free and naturally gluten-free flavors.

Lick Honest Ice Creams — Burnet Road

Midtown

6555 Burnet Rd, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78757

Clinical Benefit

Offers the same clean standards and scratch-made vegan dairy-free choices as the South Lamar location.

Lick Honest Ice Creams — Mueller

Aldrich Street

1905 Aldrich St, Suite 150, Austin, TX 78723

Clinical Benefit

Offers the same clean standards and scratch-made vegan dairy-free choices as the other Austin locations.

ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES

Relaxation & Recovery Activities

A comfortable, accessibility-conscious movie option for patients and companions during their Austin stay.

Violet Crown Austin

Our Top Movie Recommendation

Top Pick
434 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

Patient & Accessibility Note

This is our premier recommendation for patients wanting to see a movie during their recovery window. It offers exceptional comfort and strong accessibility. We highly recommend parking directly in the attached garage: the theater's private garage entrance lets you bypass stairs, or you can be dropped off seamlessly by a private transit provider or rideshare service.

Visit Website
RECOVERY MOVEMENT

Dr. Rob's Recommended Recovery Exercise: Walking

Thoughtfully selected Austin destinations for gentle movement before and after surgery.

Clinical Guidance

Walking is our highly recommended low-impact exercise both before and after surgery to promote healthy circulation and optimal recovery. However, given Austin's intense climate, avoiding heat exhaustion, heavy perspiration, and sudden lightheadedness or dizziness is crucial. Always prioritize shaded, climate-controlled, or well-timed outdoor routes.

Barton Creek Square

Our Top Indoor Workaround

Top Pick
2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746

Patient Guidance

Located immediately next to our medical clinic. When outdoor weather is unfavorable or excessively hot, this is our top recommendation for safe, comfortable indoor walking. It is climate-controlled, flat, features premier anchors such as Nordstrom, and allows you to move safely and shop without heat strain.

Visit Website

Zilker Botanical Garden

Shaded, Gentle Outdoor Stroll

2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746

Patient Guidance

Nestled inside Zilker Park, this 28-acre botanical footprint offers a lush, shaded, tranquil outdoor getaway. Manageable walking pathways wind through heritage oaks, koi ponds, and themed gardens, creating a lower-sun option for a peaceful recovery walk.

Visit Website

Zilker Metropolitan Park

Expansive Outdoor Walking

2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Patient Guidance

Austin's massive, iconic central park features vast open lawns and downtown skyline views. Strict Summer Caveat: because the main lawns are highly exposed to the sun, limit walks here to early morning or late evening during warmer months to prevent overheating.

Visit Website

The Domain

Outdoor Mixed Walking

11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758

Patient Guidance

A beautifully laid-out, upscale outdoor pedestrian shopping district in North Austin. Strict Summer Caveat: use it for early morning or late evening walks when temperatures are lower to prevent heat strain.

Visit Website

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Nature & Scenic Walk

1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741

Patient Guidance

A flat, scenic path bordering Lady Bird Lake in the heart of Austin. Strict Patient Instructions: use this route only during mild seasonal weather or early morning hours, stay on shaded portions of the path, keep a gentle pace, and carry hydration to help prevent dizziness.

Visit Website
AUSTIN LIVE MUSIC

Top Live Music Venues in Austin

Discover Austin's landmark music venues and iconic event destinations while planning your stay.

Auditorium Shores

Premier Outdoor Music & Festivals

900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Patient Guidance

A scenic outdoor lakeside park venue known for hosting major music festivals and large community concerts against a breathtaking downtown skyline backdrop.

Visit Website

ACL Live at The Moody Theater

Live Music — Downtown

310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701

Patient Guidance

Located on 2nd Street downtown, this state-of-the-art, world-renowned venue is the official home of Austin City Limits television tapings and hosts phenomenal live music acts year-round in an intimate, high-production setting.

Visit Website

The Paramount Theatre

Historic Theater — Congress Ave

713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Patient Guidance

Located on historic Congress Avenue, this legendary 100-year-old venue hosts exceptional live theater, comedy shows, musical performances, and classic film series in a classic setting.

Visit Website

Moody Center Arena

Live Music & Events — UT Campus

2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712

Patient Guidance

Located on the University of Texas at Austin campus, this world-class arena hosts major touring concert acts, entertainment events, and Longhorn basketball games.

Visit Website
AUSTIN LIVE SPORTS

Live Sports & Entertainment

A memorable local event option for patients and companions visiting Austin during soccer season.

Austin FC at Q2 Stadium

Our Top Sporting Event Recommendation

Top Pick
10414 McKalla Pl, Austin, TX 78758

Patient Guidance

As proud season ticket holders and active supporters, we highly recommend catching a live match if you are a sports fan visiting during soccer season. The energy at Q2 Stadium is exceptional.

Visit Website
Your Timeline

How the Process Works for Traveling Patients

From first contact to full recovery — here is what to expect when you travel to Austin for explant surgery with Dr. Whitfield.

01

Virtual Consultation

Schedule a telehealth appointment. Dr. Whitfield reviews your health history, symptoms, and imaging. You discuss your goals and develop a preliminary surgical plan. No travel required.

02

SHARP Phase 1 Preparation (Remote)

Your SHARP practitioner runs advanced lab testing (coordinated with local facilities) and builds your personalized preparation protocol. Supplements shipped to your home. All managed via telehealth.

03

Pre-Operative Testing (Local)

Complete required pre-operative labs and imaging at facilities in your home state. Orders provided by Dr. Whitfield's team. Results reviewed before you travel.

04

Travel to Austin

Fly into AUS airport. Check into your recovery accommodation. Pre-operative appointment at the practice (typically the day before surgery).

05

Surgery Day

Capsulectomy with PCR specimen collection. Same-day discharge for most patients. Return to your accommodation with post-operative instructions.

06

Post-Operative Recovery in Austin

Initial recovery in the first week. First post-operative appointment. Cleared for travel home.

07

Return Home + Telehealth Follow-Up

Fly home once cleared. PCR results reviewed via telehealth (7–10 business days). SHARP Phase 3 recovery protocol managed remotely. Ongoing support as needed.

Practice Location

Austin, Texas

Office Address

2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100

Austin, TX 78746

(512) 643-5298

Getting Here

  • AUS airport: 20 minutes by car
  • Non-stop flights from most major US cities
  • Hotels and recovery houses within 10 minutes
Plan Your Stay

Hotels & Recovery-Friendly Accommodations

Compare nearby extended-stay, luxury, and Austin boutique hotels for your surgical visit. Distances are measured from Dr. Whitfield's office in West Lake Hills.

Dr. Robert Whitfield: 2530 Walsh Tarlton Ln, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78746

Get Directions to the Office

Zone 1

West Lake Hills & Hill Country

Closest to the practice

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

4.5 miles
5.0

Premier hill country luxury resort with world-class spa and golf.

Residence Inn by Marriott Austin Southwest

2.5 miles
3.0

Extended-stay suites with fully equipped kitchens for multi-day recovery.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunset Valley

1.8 miles
3.9

Closest functional choice with clean, convenient proximity.

Hampton Inn Austin/Oak Hill

3.5 miles
4.3

Dependable corporate standard with quick southwest corridor access.

Zone 2

Zilker Park & South Congress

Approximately 4–6 miles from the practice

The Loren Hotel Austin

4.2 miles
5.0

Luxury boutique on edge of Zilker Park with park and skyline views.

Zone 3

Downtown Austin

Approximately 4–6 miles from the practice

Austin Proper Hotel

4.8 miles
5.0

Acclaimed luxury in Second Street District with wellness programs.

Personalized Travel Support

Traveling for surgery? Let our patient coordinator help plan your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Patient Questions

Can I do my consultation virtually?

+

Yes. Dr. Whitfield offers virtual consultations via secure telehealth for all out-of-state patients. You can complete your initial evaluation, discuss your symptoms, review imaging, and develop a surgical plan without traveling to Austin until you are ready for surgery.

How long do I need to stay in Austin after surgery?

+

Most patients stay in Austin for 3–5 days after surgery. This allows for your first post-operative appointment, initial recovery monitoring, and drain management if applicable. After that, follow-up can be managed via telehealth.

Can I fly home after surgery?

+

Most patients can fly home 3–5 days after surgery, depending on their individual recovery. Dr. Whitfield will clear you for travel at your post-operative appointment. We recommend booking a flexible return flight.

How do I get pre-operative testing done in my home state?

+

The practice coordinates pre-operative lab work and imaging with facilities in your home state. You will receive specific orders and instructions so everything is completed before you travel to Austin. Results are reviewed by Dr. Whitfield's team before your surgery date.

Do you recommend specific hotels or recovery houses?

+

Yes. The practice maintains a list of recommended accommodations near the surgical center, including recovery-friendly options with kitchen facilities. The patient coordinator provides this information after your surgery is scheduled.

What if I have a complication after I return home?

+

Dr. Whitfield's team is available via telehealth for post-operative concerns. If an in-person evaluation is needed, the team can coordinate with a local provider in your area or arrange a return visit. Complications requiring intervention are rare.

Can I combine SHARP preparation with being out of state?

+

Absolutely. The SHARP Phase 1 preparation protocol is designed to be completed remotely. Your SHARP practitioner works with you via telehealth, and all supplements and protocols are shipped to your home. You arrive in Austin fully prepared.

How far in advance should I schedule my surgery?

+

Most patients schedule 6–12 weeks in advance to allow time for SHARP Phase 1 preparation, pre-operative testing, and travel planning. Availability varies, so earlier scheduling provides more date flexibility.

Your Next Step

You Deserve a Surgeon Who Prepares You, Not Just Operates on You.

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.

Not ready to book? Download the free Inflammation Support Guide to start your journey.