Breast Implant Replacement

Breast implant removal and replacement is a frequently performed breast revision surgery aimed at women who wish to replace damaged, outdated, unwanted, or troublesome implants with a new set. It is typical for women to undergo breast implant removal and replacement once or twice in the years following their initial breast implant surgery.

While breast implants are FDA-approved and regarded as a reliable and effective solution for breast contouring, they are not intended to provide permanent enhancement. After approximately ten years, the integrity of the implant shell tends to diminish. Without timely replacement, this shell deterioration can lead to an implant rupture.

There are various reasons why a patient may want or need to undergo breast implant removal or replacement. We perform breast revision surgery to address aesthetic, functional, and medical issues, including: 

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE

After the placement of a breast implant, it is common for scar tissue to develop around it. Typically, this capsular scar tissue helps anchor the implant securely and is neither noticeable nor palpable. 

However, if the body's response to the implant is abnormal, an excess of dense, tough scar tissue can build up around the implant. In severe cases, this can lead to a rigid and firm breast, resulting in significant discomfort for the patient. 

IMPLANT RUPTURE

Breast implant exchange surgery is often conducted to replace ruptured saline or silicone implants. While ruptured silicone implants typically do not change the breast shape, negative reactions may occur when the body is exposed to the contents of the silicone implant, necessitating prompt attention. 

In cases of saline implant rupture, the sterile saltwater filling leaks into the body, causing deflation of the implant shell. The body can absorb the saline without complications, but the aesthetic consequences are significant. To restore lost volume, the implant must be removed and replaced. 

MALPOSITION

When your breast implants have rotated or shifted laterally—either inward or outward—it is crucial to consider breast implant removal and replacement to achieve a more natural appearance. Furthermore, breast revision surgery may be necessary if the implants descend below the breast crease, a condition known as "bottoming out." This procedure often involves breast pocket revision and tissue repairs to properly position the replacement implants for enhanced aesthetics. 

COSMETIC IMPROVEMENT

If a patient is dissatisfied with the breast shape achieved with their existing implants, implant replacement surgery can serve as an excellent solution. We can replace a patient's current implants with different types, shapes, or sizes to better align with their aesthetic desires.