Breast Implant Revision (Implant Replacement)

What is breast implant revision?

Revision surgery replaces existing breast implants with new ones and may also adjust breast shape, position, or size. Plans are individualized and can include pocket reshaping, a lift or reduction, and switching implant types or volumes.

Candidates

• Past breast augmentation with new concerns (size, symmetry, feel, appearance).
• Worries about implant integrity (e.g., rupture or position changes).
• Generally healthy, stable weight, nonsmoker, and realistic expectations.

Cost

Total costs vary by surgeon experience and location and may include surgeon’s fee, facility/anesthesia fees, implant costs, tests, medications, and garments. Health insurance or manufacturer warranties occasionally apply in limited scenarios—ask your surgeon.

Consultation

The surgeon reviews goals, examines breast tissue and implants, discusses options (size change, implant type, lift), explains scars and recovery, and outlines potential risks and need for future imaging (especially for silicone implants).

Questions to Ask

• Board certification and specific experience with revision techniques.
• Where the procedure is performed and facility accreditation.
• Recommended approach, scar locations, expected recovery help needed.
• All risks, complication handling, and likely long-term look.
• Options if results aren’t as expected; before/after examples relevant to you.

Risks and Safety

• General surgical risks (bleeding, infection, anesthesia events).
• Sensation changes, scarring, malposition, rippling, pain, capsular contracture.
• Implant rupture/leak; possibility of additional surgery later.

Discuss rare implant-related conditions (e.g., BIA-ALCL, BIA-SCC) and systemic symptom reports with your surgeon; choose a board-certified plastic surgeon and accredited facility.

Preparation

• Follow pre-op tests and medication instructions; avoid nicotine/NSAIDs as directed.
• Arrange transport and early aftercare; plan time off work and support garments.

Procedure Steps

Incisions

May include inframammary, peri-areolar, and, when combined with a lift, vertical/Wise-pattern incisions—chosen to fit your revision plan.

Implant Management

Old implants are removed; pockets may be modified; new implants placed. A lift or reduction may be performed if needed.

Closure

Layered sutures and skin closure with sutures/adhesives/tapes. Scar maturation takes months.

Recovery

Support bras/garments reduce swelling and support new position. Expect soreness and swelling for days to weeks; activity increases gradually per your surgeon’s timeline. Follow instructions for wound care, meds, and follow-up.

Results

Size and contour change is immediate, with shape settling as swelling subsides. Breasts continue to evolve with aging, hormones, and weight changes. Implants are not lifetime devices; future imaging and possible exchange may be recommended.

Glossary

• Capsular contracture:Tightening/thickening of tissue around the implant.
• Implant pocket: Space in which the implant rests; may be reshaped during revision.
• Inframammary fold (IMF): Crease under the breast where incisions often hide.

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

• Verify board certification in plastic surgery and hospital privileges.
• Confirm specific experience with revision cases and see case examples.
• Ensure the facility is accredited and you feel comfortable with the plan.