NHS Implant Removal | Deeping Surgical

What is a Contraceptive Implant?

The contraceptive implant (e.g. Nexplanon) is a small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases progestogen to prevent pregnancy. It is effective for up to 3 years.

Why Would I Need Removal?

It has expired (after 3 years)

You’re experiencing side effects

You want to try for a baby

You prefer an alternative contraceptive method

What is the NHS Criteria for this procedure?
DEEP CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT: NO prior approval needed

If a contraceptive implant is hard to remove. In the removal of a deep contraceptive implant – ‘deep’ would be described as not easy to palpate/locate and usually deep within the subcutaneous fat or below it.

Can It Be Treated Without Surgery?

?

What is the Procedure?

Performed under local anaesthetic:

A small incision is made in the arm

The implant is located and gently removed

The incision is closed with a paper strip or dissolvable stitch

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

After Surgery:

A small dressing is applied

Bruising is common and fades over 1–2 weeks

You can resume normal activity within a day, and after removal you should either consider another implant of other forms of contraception if this is still necessary.