Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm, designed to provide long-term contraception for up to three years by releasing hormones. Its removal is generally straightforward and performed in an office setting. This article clarifies the nature of Nexplanon removal, detailing what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Understanding What Constitutes Surgery
The term “surgery” encompasses a broad range of medical procedures, varying in complexity and invasiveness. Medical procedures are generally categorized as either major or minor. Minor surgical procedures involve little risk to the patient and typically operate on superficial body structures. They often do not require a dedicated surgical facility, though aseptic techniques must be followed to prevent infection.
In contrast, major surgeries involve penetrating body cavities, carry higher risks, and often necessitate general anesthesia and a hospital operating room. Nexplanon removal is classified as a minor surgical procedure. It is usually performed in a healthcare provider’s office, relying on local anesthesia to numb only the specific area of the arm. This distinction means the procedure does not involve the extensive preparation, deep incisions, or prolonged recovery periods associated with major operations.
The Nexplanon Removal Process
The removal of a Nexplanon implant is typically a quick, in-office procedure performed by a trained healthcare professional, often taking less than five minutes. The process begins with the healthcare provider locating the implant by palpation. Once the implant’s position is confirmed, the area is thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection.
A local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, is then injected around the implant site to numb the area, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure. After the anesthetic takes effect, a small incision, usually about 2 to 3 millimeters, is made near the end of the implant. The healthcare provider then gently pushes the implant toward the incision, using forceps to grasp and carefully extract the small rod.
After Nexplanon Removal
Following the removal of the Nexplanon implant, the incision site is typically closed with steri-strips or a small bandage and then covered with a pressure bandage. This pressure bandage helps to minimize bleeding and bruising and should remain in place for about 24 hours. After removing the pressure bandage, a smaller adhesive bandage or steri-strips are usually kept on the site for three to five days to protect the wound as it heals.
Some mild discomfort, bruising, swelling, or tenderness at the removal site is common and generally resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. Patients are typically advised to keep the area clean and dry for three to five days and to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a few days to promote proper healing. The small scar from the incision will fade over time.
Potential Considerations During and After Removal
While Nexplanon removal is generally straightforward, certain situations can make the process more involved. Occasionally, the implant may be difficult to locate due to deep insertion or minor migration from its original position. In such cases, imaging techniques like ultrasound or X-ray may be used to pinpoint the implant’s exact location before removal. If the implant has migrated to a distant or challenging area, specialized procedures, potentially requiring a surgeon or an operating room, might be necessary for its extraction.
After removal, some individuals may experience temporary side effects as their body adjusts to hormonal changes. These can include irregular bleeding, mood fluctuations, headaches, or changes in skin texture. These effects are usually temporary, lasting from a few days to a few months, and typically resolve as the body re-establishes its natural hormonal balance. Risks such as infection at the incision site, persistent bruising, or nerve irritation can occur. Any concerns about prolonged or severe symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.