Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2025

13:35
Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Published on: May 17, 2024
2.3K
Practical Method for the Removal of Silicone Breast Implants
Vicki McClure1, Mansoor Mirkazemi1
1From the Plastic and Reconstructive Unit, Dandenong Hospital, Monash Health, Dandenong, Victoria, Australia.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|April 15, 2025
Summary
A new, low-cost device facilitates the sterile removal of ruptured silicone breast implants. This customizable, autoclavable tool addresses limitations of improvised methods and expensive commercial options, ensuring compliance with sterilization standards.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Technology
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Silicone breast implants are prevalent in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
- Limited tools exist for implant removal, especially for ruptured devices.
- Improvised removal tools face sterilization challenges and volume limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel, cost-effective device for sterile silicone implant removal.
- To address the need for a compliant and accessible explantation tool.
- To provide a solution for ruptured silicone breast implants.
Main Methods:
- Development of a customizable, low-cost, autoclavable extraction device.
- Utilized readily available operating room equipment for assembly.
- Device features a large diameter opening and 1L collection capacity.
Main Results:
- The described device allows for easy extraction of both ruptured and intact implants.
- It meets volume requirements for most procedures.
- Assembly takes under 3 minutes and adheres to updated sterilization protocols.
Conclusions:
- The described device offers a practical, compliant, and cost-effective solution for silicone implant removal.
- This technique enhances patient safety by minimizing silicone contamination risk.
- It provides an accessible alternative to expensive or unavailable commercial devices.

