What is Implant Replacement?

Implant replacement (breast augmentation revision) is a procedure commonly chosen when a person would like to replace an aged implant or would like to change the size or shape of an original implant.

Thousands of women undergo breast augmentation surgery each year and many of these patients will require a revision surgery. The most common reason to have a second breast implant revision surgery is to change the size of the implant.

Another common reason to need a revision would be to treat a condition known as capsular contracture. This basically refers to hard scar tissue which can form around the breast implant causing the implant to become distorted and firm. This occurs in about 10% of all patients undergoing breast augmentation. It is known to occur more commonly in breast implants inserted through the areolar incision as well as implants placed above the muscle (subglandular).

Besides size requests, capsular contracture is the main reason for needing a breast implant revision surgery.

Reasons for Breast Implant Replacement

• Exchanging breast implants for a different size, style, or fill material
• Replacing ruptured or leaking implants
• Improving disappointing results from previous breast augmentation
• Correcting a complication such as capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant), bottoming out (implant drops too low), or symmastia (implants placed too close together)
• Removing implants without replacing them (It is called explantation)

Who can benefit?

If you are considering breast revision surgery, you may fall into one of these:

• Poor implant choice
• Weak breast tissue
• Complications

Who is a good candidate for Implant Replacement?

If you are in good general health and have realistic expectations regarding the results of your revision surgery, you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.

What to expect after breast implant replacement?