Subdermal Implant Removal

Removal of a contraceptive implant is done at the clinic, under local anesthesia and in a single visit, walk-in.

When is it removed?

• When the implant reaches the end of its lifespan
• If you want to try for a pregnancy
• If side effects do not improve over time
• If you want to switch to another method
• If the implant has moved or feels different

What is the procedure like?

The implant is located under the skin of the arm, the area is numbed with a small injection and it is removed through an incision a few millimeters long. It takes a few minutes. You will feel pressure, not pain. It is closed with a stitch or adhesive and covered with a pressure bandage.

Before coming

• Bring the implant card if you kept it: it shows the type and insertion date
• Say if it was ever hard to locate or was inserted deep
• Mention if you take blood thinners

After removal

• Keep the bandage on for 24 hours and the area dry for two days
• A bruise on the arm for a week or two is normal
• Avoid lifting with that arm for the first few days
• Fertility returns quickly after removal: if you do not want a pregnancy, starting another method right away is advisable

A birth control visit reviews which method to continue with. Pills and the injection are started here; for a new implant or an IUD you are pointed to where to go.

When to come back

If spreading redness, pus or fever appear, or if pain increases instead of easing.

Walk-in and no insurance

Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM. The cost is given before starting.