BREAST IMPLANT REPLACEMENT / REMOVAL

TREATMENT

BREAST IMPLANT REPLACEMENT / REMOVAL


Breast implant replacement / removal usually involves removing the existing implants and replacing them with newer ones. This may be for a number of reasons; capsular contracture, a change in desired shape or size or ruptured implants.


It may also be necessary to undergo a capsulectomy as part of this operation. A capsulectomy involves removing any scar tissue that may have built up around the existing implant causing the implant to feel hard and potentially altering the shape of the breast, before it is replaced.

2-12 WEEKS

GENEREAL ANAESTHETIC

RECOVERY

ANAESTHETIC

CAN BE PERMANENT

DURATION

2-3 HOURS

TIME TAKEN

TIME TAKEN

DURATION

ANAESTHETIC

RECOVERY

2-3 HOURS

CAN BE PERMANENT

GENERAL ANAESTHETIC

2-12 WEEKS


Many women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery will retain their implants for many years without complication, or desire to change. However, when implant exchange is recommended, in some cases where the original implants have dropped over time, a breast uplift (mastopexy) may also be considered. We will work together with you to determine the correct course of action taking into consideration your personal desires and concerns, during your pre-operative assessment.

During your surgery, we will usually try to follow the pattern of the previous incisions so as to minimise visible scarring; it is worth noting that this may not be possible when a mastopexy is also being performed. The new implant will then be placed either in front of or behind the chest muscle (the placement of the implant will also be decided during your pre-operative assessment), and the wound will be closed.


At The REAL Clinic, breast implant removal / exchange is carried out under general anaesthetic. We use total intravenous anaesthesia as it has greater potential benefits compared to other forms of anaesthesia. Intravenous anaesthesia is more rapid in onset, and elimination which allows for speedier recovery. Further benefits include; increased haemodynamic stability (stabilised blood flow), decreased risk of organ toxicity, decrease in surgical haemostasis (bleeding), reduced risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and improved, more predictable recovery.


LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAST IMPLANT REPLACEMENT / REMOVAL

QUESTIONS OFTEN ASKED ABOUT BREAST IMPLANT REPLACEMENT / REMOVAL


  • Are there any risks associated with breast implant exchange / removal?

    The most common side effects are much the same as with your original breast augmentation surgery; swelling, bruising, tenderness and mild discomfort which can be managed with pain relief. Infrequently a patient may experience bleeding (haematoma), delayed healing and breast asymmetry. The visibility of scarring will vary depending on the procedures carried out alongside breast implant exchange / removal, as well as the overall health of the patient.

  • Is there any downtime associated with breast implant exchange / removal?

    You can typically allow it to take up to two weeks to ‘heal’ from breast implant / exchange surgery. It would be advisable if possible to rest during this period and refrain from any stress inducing activities including going to work and driving. You should not travel abroad for at least 3 weeks post surgery, and should not resume activities such as going to the gym or sports for at least 12 weeks post surgery.

RELATED TREATMENTS


BREAT IMPLANT REPLACEMENT

BREAST REDUCTION

BREAST AUGMENTATION

WOULD YOU LIKE A LITTLE EXTRA HELP?


If you’re not sure what treatment you need, or you would just like a chat to get some advice, give our team a call or drop us a message and we’ll be happy to help.

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