En Bloc Implant Removal Fairfield County

On social media groups and forums around the globe, a movement is gaining momentum: a movement of women demanding en bloc breast implant removal for the treatment of breast implant illness (BII). Many of these women have gone to their doctors with concerns, only to be told that breast implant illness “isn’t real” and that there is nothing wrong with them.

These women suffer from real symptoms like chronic fatigue, brain fog, depression, anxiety, and other ailments. In each case, their symptoms began after they got breast implants. When they go to medical professionals with complaints of breast implant illness and are not taken seriously, the frustration and helplessness they feel just adds another layer to their suffering.

Dr. David Passaretti is a Fairfield County en bloc breast implant removal specialist who believes and listens to his patients. He has helped hundreds of women on their journeys to wellness by safely removing their implants through en bloc capsulectomy - a procedure that removes both the breast implant and scar tissue around it to minimize the risk of further contamination. He is a nationally recognized expert on BII and is leading the push to investigate this issue. He and his entire staff are here to help you.

En Bloc Implant Removal Before & Afters

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Breast Implant Illness: What you need to know

A “remove movement” is building

In the last few years, hundreds of thousands of women with similar issues have found each other online and been empowered to seek out en bloc breast implant removals for treatment of their breast implant-related illness.

Dr. Passaretti listens to his patients and believes them. He will take your concerns seriously and work with you to restore your health. This is why patients from across the country seek out Dr. Passaretti - for his experience and the safety of his private Fairfield County plastic surgery facility.

Through his experience with hundreds of patients, Dr. Passaretti has seen the powerful and positive effects of en bloc breast implant removal (also known as en bloc capsulectomy). The vast majority of women who have en bloc removals with Dr. Passaretti reported significant relief from their breast implant illness symptoms following removal.

Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence

Many women feel as though their medical issues and concerns have been dismissed by their surgeons and other health care professionals. Despite being plagued with an array of complicated symptoms, they are told there is nothing wrong with them; that breast implant illness is “not real.” They are left alone, frustrated, and devastated.

Simply because modern medicine cannot diagnose or prove the existence of breast implant illness does not mean that it does not exist. It only means that we do not yet have a thorough understanding of the physiology behind the condition.

While BII is not an officially recognized diagnosis at this time due to lack of testing and study, the studies that have been donce seem to indicate that breast implant-related illness is most likely an autoimmune reaction to the presence of the implants or bacteria on the implants. There is no way to accurately diagnose it and it does not seem to lead to cancer. A 2013 study published in the Netherlands Journal of Medicine suggested that most of the symptoms of BII disappeared in 69% of women after their implants were taken out.

Breast Implant Illness

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a catch-all term that includes numerous symptoms that implant patients associate with their breast implants, including:

Anxiety
Body odor
Brain fog
Chest pain
Chills
Chronic pain
Depression
Fatigue
Hair loss
Headaches
Hormonal or neurologic issues
Photosensitivity (sensitivity to light)
Rashes
Sleep disturbance

En bloc breast implant removal:

Advanced Removal - Less Risk

What Is en bloc breast implant removal (capsulectomy)?

At our practice in Fairfield County en bloc breast implant removal is offered as a highly specialized surgical procedure that removes a breast implant and all of the surrounding scar tissue (or capsule) as one unit. This prevents any additional contact between your tissues and the implant. By doing this, the patient can ensure that all of the capsule and contaminated tissue is removed and that she has no exposure to contamination during the procedure.

For your safety and comfort, Dr. Passaretti can perform the procedure in our private operating facility. Because we operate with the highest safety standards, we can ensure that you are not exposed to any additional contamination or bacteria that is commonly found in hospitals.

When to choose en bloc capsulectomy

En bloc is a significantly more in-depth surgery than traditional implant removal or capsulectomy.

DO I QUALIFY for en bloc capsulectomy?

While Dr. Passaretti believes that en bloc capsulectomy is the preferred method for treating the above issues, there are a few potential complications that could restrict your ability to receive this treatment option.

En bloc removal for breast implant illness

If you are concerned about the impact of your breast implants on your health or if you have a breast implant-related illness, an en bloc procedure may be right for you. En bloc removal is considered the gold standard for treating BII. Dr. Passaretti strongly believes that anything less is unacceptable and only leads to more problems down the line.

Dr. Passaretti is one of the few surgeons in Connecticut and across the country to be certified by leading en bloc patient groups, including the group Healing Breast Implant Illness. He will listen to your concerns, help you narrow down potential causes for your symptoms, and use whatever tools he can (including breast implant removal through en bloc capsulectomy) to attempt treatment of your symptoms.

En bloc removal for textured breast implants

Recent evidence suggests that highly textured implants can lead to a form of cancer called breast implant-related lymphoma. Although it is rare, any increased risk of developing cancer should be addressed by having the implant and the surrounding tissue removed. Having an en bloc procedure allows the patient to have the peace of mind of knowing the entire capsule has been removed and that there is no possibility of tissue being left behind.

Patients who are not concerned about breast implant-related illness may choose to have an implant replaced at the time of removal. This is a personal choice that Dr. Passaretti will discuss with you in thorough detail. It may also be an appropriate time to perform other corrective procedures such as breast lifts or fat transfers to restore the natural shape of the breast and correct the aesthetic changes to the breast caused by implantation and removal.

The Capsule is Too Thin

In cases where the capsule is very thin, it cannot be kept fully intact, and the contents can leak. As such, an en bloc implant removal cannot be performed safely.

State of Your Health

You should be in good overall health before undergoing surgery, as certain conditions can impact your body's ability to heal properly. As part of your consultation for en bloc implant removal Fairfield County plastic surgeon Dr. Passaretti will assess your pre-existing conditions and address potential risk factors that may impact your candidacy for en bloc procedures.

En bloc removal for ruptured implants

The rupture of a breast implant is probably the most common fear women have when considering breast implants - and there is a logic behind those concerns. Ruptures do happen, and the risk of rupture increases with the age of the implant. In fact, some studies say that the rate of rupture for both saline and silicone implants is between 7 and 10% a decade after implantation.

The symptoms of a rupture are different depending on the type of implant you have. Saline implants experience a near-immediate “deflation” as the saline solution inside the implant leaves the capsule. With silicone implants, a rupture is more of a slow leak - one that can lead to health complications if not detected quickly.

By removing the implant within an intact capsule, Dr. Passaretti avoids any further tissue contamination from the leaking silicone. Patients undergoing en bloc removal may also opt to have their implants replaced for a breast lift at the same time.

If you suspect that your implant may have ruptured, contact Dr. Passaretti’s office as soon as possible to schedule an emergency appointment.

Overly Large Implant & Capsule

If the implant and capsule are too large to remove as a unit, this technique may not be recommended because it cannot fit through the small incision.

There are alternative techniques that can be used to remove the capsule in this case, but an en bloc capsulectomy may wind up not being the most beneficial. Dr. Passaretti works with each patient to determine the treatment solution that minimizes damage to the body and maximizes overall patient safety.

What are my options after En Bloc Capsulectomy?

Some patients who have their breast implants removed choose to do nothing further and are simply happy to return to their pre-operative breast size. Meanwhile, others are interested in discussing options such as breast implant replacement with Dr. Passaretti. Some of the options patients may consider after en bloc capsulectomy include:

Breast Implant Replacement

If breast-implant-related illness is not a concern, Dr. Passaretti can replace the problematic breast implants with new ones. Generally, patients who consider this option have experienced an implant rupture or are dissatisfied with the size of their current implants.

Breast Lift

Removing overly large implants may contribute to the stretching of the breast tissues and skin. Aging, pregnancy, and breastfeeding also frequently result in loss of elasticity. As a corrective procedure, Dr. Passaretti may perform a breast lift (mastopexy) to elevate the breasts and apex to a more youthful position after en bloc capsulectomy.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

Rather than replacing the implants after en bloc capsulectomy, Dr. Passaretti can restore volume to the breasts using fat harvested from another area of your body. Fat transfer, also known as microlipoinjections, has gained popularity as a means of increasing breast size naturally over the last few years. Fat injections allow patients to increase the size of their natural breasts by one or two cup sizes.

Who is a candidate for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

There are many variables involved in selecting the ideal breast fat transfer candidate. One of the main factors is whether you have enough excess body fat to warrant the procedure.

Patients who have lean body types may not qualify. While individuals with a tight skin envelope may also not be good candidates, many patients have adequate breast elasticity after implant removal, making them suitable for the procedure. It is important to have realistic expectations of what breast fat transfer can do. The procedure is best for patients who desire a modest increase in bust size, usually no more than one or two bra cup sizes.

A Destination for Healing

Because of the innovative and specialized nature of en bloc capsulectomy to treat breast implant illness, surgeons who are knowledgeable and experienced in this procedure are difficult to find.

Dr. Passaretti understands this, which is why he is available to help out-of-town patients from across New England and the rest of the world. No matter where you live, you can schedule a virtual consultation to discuss your symptoms with Dr. Passaretti and schedule a time for surgery.

Our world-class staff can assist you with setting up your travel plans for surgery - as well as making arrangements for your initial recovery in Darien, Connecticut. Just minutes away from Long Island Sound, the quiet shoreline community of Darien offers a serene, relaxing environment for your post-surgery recuperation. Tourist attractions like the famous Salt Cave of Darien provide the perfect opportunities to absorb healing energy and reinvigorate your body and mind as you begin your recovery.

FAQs

ABOUT EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY AND BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

Will I need a drain?

Usually not! Although most surgeons use surgical drains, with Dr. Passaretti's meticulous technique and gentle tissue handling, the procedure is performed drainless with no use of surgical drains. This helps to reduce the risk of outside contamination of the surgical field, one of the many reasons why he has a 0% infection rate for his breast surgeries.

Will there be a scar?

To ensure minimal scarring, the en bloc procedure is usually performed through your existing surgical scar. But since the implant and capsule are removed as one unit, the scar is often longer than that from a typical breast augmentation - usually about four or five inches. In the end, the size of your scar will depend on the size of your breast and the size of the implant. Dr. Passaretti understands that minimizing external scar tissue is important, and works with each patient to create a treatment plan that prevents harm to the body wherever possible.

Will I need a breast lift?

While a breast lift is not required, many women choose to undergo a breast lift at the same time as their implant removal. If the breast skin is stretched or the nipple is situated too low, a breast lift (or mastopexy) can help reshape, elevate, and rejuvenate the breast. Many plastic surgeons will not perform a breast lift at the same time as the En Bloc procedure, but Dr. Passaretti has the surgical experience and skill to safely combine the two procedures for virtually all of the patients who desire it.

How will I know if all of the scar tissue was removed?

All too often, we hear of patients needing additional surgery because some scar tissue was left behind. Due to the complex nature of an en bloc removal, many surgeons fail to completely remove all of the scars.

This is where experience counts.

Dr. Passaretti has performed hundreds of en bloc procedures. Although we cannot make any guarantees, Dr. Passaretti has never failed to completely perform a patient-requested en bloc procedure over the past 15 years.

After removal, we also photograph the implant and scar to give patients peace of mind that it was all removed.

Will the tissue and implant be tested?

Yes! Do not trust your pathology to just anyone. Dr. Passaretti has worked closely with Dr. Babkowski, a breast pathologist with a specialty in BII and lymphoma, to develop a protocol for bacterial and pathological testing of all the specimens.

What is the recovery like?

During an en bloc implant removal, it is often necessary for the surgeon to remove portions of muscle and rib. While this is a completely safe and essential part of the procedure, it does make the first week of recovery slightly more difficult than that of the original breast augmentation.

What Are the Types of Capsulectomy?

If you have decided to have your implants removed, there are several different ways you can go about it. For example, en bloc capsulectomy is often confused with total capsulectomy, but they are very different procedures. While both procedures remove the breast implant and the surrounding scar tissue known as the capsule, they require different approaches.

There are several common capsulectomy procedures used to treat breast implant issues, including:

En Bloc

En Bloc comes from the French term meaning "all together." The term is used to describe the surgical removal of something as one piece and without disruption. When performing an En Bloc capsulectomy, the plastic surgeon cuts around the implant, and the capsule enclosing the implant. Then, he carefully removes it without causing any contamination to the body.

This technique allows the silicone to stay safely inside the capsule during its removal, preventing chemicals and bacteria from leaking inside the body and potentially causing health issues. Often, this technique requires the removal of portions of muscle and rib due to the adherent, sticky nature of the scar.

Total Capsulectomy

Total capsulectomy removes all the scar tissue. During this procedure, a cosmetic surgeon will remove the implants first, then remove all of the capsule tissue. This technique increases the risk of introducing contamination from the implant into the patient's body as the implant is cut away first. However, it can also result in smaller incisions and faster healing times if done carefully.

Partial Capsulectomy

A partial capsulectomy is a procedure that removes only part of the scar tissue. This procedure is commonly used by plastic surgeons to correct capsular contracture. There are also nonsurgical methods to attempt to address capsular contracture. During your consultation at our Darien office, Dr. Passaretti will assess your symptoms and help you evaluate your risks and the procedures that are available to you.

Capsulotomy

A capsulotomy is a procedure that cuts or releases some of the scar tissue around the implant. In most cases, plastic surgeons perform this technique to reshape the breast, reposition an implant, or soften a hardened breast. With this technique, the entire capsule is left behind.

What is BIA-ALCL?

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare but treatable type of lymphoma that can develop around textured breast implants. BIA-ALCL can occur in both silicone and saline implants as well as reconstructive and cosmetic patients. It is not a form of breast cancer, but it is an indicator for an en bloc removal.

Testimonials

“I am grateful to have chosen such a skilled surgeon as Dr. Passaretti of Darien CT. I am beyond pleased with my explant surgery and experience. My symptoms are noticeably better, I am so thankful for Dr. Passaretti being part of my journey to health and wellness”.

" When I met with Dr. Passaretti, he listened to what I had to say and didn't brush me off as uninformed or tell me I was completely wrong. He explained what he could and would do, he gave me hope and was compassionate. I knew he was highly skilled just by his ability to answer all my questions. I was aware of other surgeons that do not have the advanced technique to perform an En Bloc. Dr. Passaretti is a true healer who cares with articulate gifted surgeon hands."

“From beginning to end, it has been an excellent experience with a team that is not only professional but are beyond kind, empathetic and willing to listen”.

“Thank you, yes it is wonderful that Dr. Passaretti is on the list of referred Surgeons. Dr. Passaretti is so caring and compassionate.”

“Thank you Dr. Passaretti, I look so incredible, you have restored my womanhood. I've already had a bunch of women reach out to me about Dr. Passaretti and one of them has already scheduled for explant in a couple of weeks. I'm so happy and grateful that he is able to help BII women. I hope it will inspire more women to take the step towards a healing journey”.

Why Choose

DR. PASSARETTI FOR EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY

Experience counts:. No two patients are the same and every procedure presents its own challenges. This is where experience matters. Despite the inherent difficulty of the operation, Dr. Passaretti has never failed to perform en bloc when asked to do so by a patient. You can place your trust in one of the most experienced en bloc surgeons in the country.

Private operating room: The last thing women undergoing an en bloc need is to be exposed to further risk of infection and contamination from inexperienced staff in a busy hospital’s public operating room. This is why Dr. Passaretti will only perform your procedure in his private operating suite, where he can ensure the highest standards of care and safety.

Specialized pathology: Just as the procedure itself is highly specialized, so is the pathologic evaluation of the specimen. Dr. Passaretti works exclusively with Dr. Babkowski, a highly experienced and specialized breast pathologist in BII. Dr. Bankowski and Dr. Passaretti are at the leading edge of treatment for Breast Implant Illness and will make sure your case gets the attention it deserves.

Supportive and understanding staff: An en bloc procedure is more than just an operation. It is a turning point on the journey back to wellness. Our staff has helped hundreds of women along their path. They will be there to guide and support you the entire way. You don’t have to do it alone!

Named one of Connecticut’s top doctors by multiple publications, Dr. Passaretti has performed more than 600 breast procedures and has an infection rate of 0%. He is meticulous, thoughtful, and dedicated to helping you achieve the body you want safely and with minimal downtime.

Fairfield County plastic surgeon Dr. David Passaretti

Implant Removal in Fairfield County, Connecticut

En Bloc Implant Removal Before & Afters

Breast Implant Illness: What you need to know

A “remove movement” is building

Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence

Breast Implant Illness

Certain Conditions May

WARRANT EN BLOC REMOVAL...

Ruptured Implant

Breast Implant Complications

Capsulare Contracture

En bloc breast implant removal:

Advanced Removal - Less Risk

What Is en bloc breast implant removal (capsulectomy)?

When to choose en bloc capsulectomy

DO I QUALIFY for en bloc capsulectomy?

En bloc removal for breast implant illness

En bloc removal for textured breast implants

The Capsule is Too Thin

State of Your Health

En bloc removal for ruptured implants

Overly Large Implant & Capsule

What are my options after En Bloc Capsulectomy?

Breast Implant Replacement

Breast Lift

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

What does Breast Fat Transfer entail?

Who is a candidate for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

A Destination for Healing

FAQs

ABOUT EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY AND BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

Will I need a drain?

Will there be a scar?

Will I need a breast lift?

How will I know if all of the scar tissue was removed?

Will the tissue and implant be tested?

What is the recovery like?

What Are the Types of Capsulectomy?

En Bloc

Total Capsulectomy

Partial Capsulectomy

Capsulotomy

What is BIA-ALCL?

Testimonials

Why Choose

DR. PASSARETTI FOR EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY

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