Breast Implant Revision FAQs

If bad breast implants have led you to seek breast implant removal surgery or implant replacement, knowledge of these procedures is invaluable in choosing a competent surgeon.

Why have breast implant revision surgery?

There are two types of breast implant revision available: breast implant removal and implant replacement surgery. Breast implant removal surgery is a popular option for those who feel they have gotten the most out of their breast implants and wish to return to their naturally smaller size. Implant replacement can help those who have suffered a bad breast augmentation and have received implants that have rippled, hardened, changed shape, or shifted position. Over time, implants may rupture or leak and should be replaced.

What are “bad” breast implants?

“Bad” breast implants does not refer to a breast augmentation that appears unnatural, but rather to breast implant surgeries which are aesthetically displeasing because of complications such as rippling, capsular contracture, and implant displacement. Bad breast implants can be replaced by a certified breast implant replacement surgeon.

Should I have my breast implants removed or replaced?

Most surgeons recommend breast implant replacement rather than breast implant removal. Implant removal surgery is riskier than replacement, with heightened potential for bleeding and infection. Breast implant removal causes the same psychological trauma as a mastectomy in some patients. For some women, though, breast implant removal is the preferred option. Women who suffer from pain and rheumatological symptoms show a marked health improvement when implants are removed completely rather than replaced. This is because some women have negative reactions to the substances in breast implants. The chemicals, trace amounts of heavy metals, and silicone present in implants may be unhealthy for women at who suffer from or are at risk for autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, MS, and lupus. If you elect to have your breast implants removed, it is important to choose a surgeon experienced in removing breast implants for the best cosmetic result. Removing implants is more difficult than putting them in, and many doctors with expertise in breast augmentation will not be able to perform a cosmetically satisfactory breast implant removal.

What is breast implant removal or replacement recovery like?

Generally, neither of these procedures is as uncomfortable as the initial breast augmentation. However, the discomfort felt by breast implant removal patients can be of a similar degree, especially if scar tissue is removed along with the implant. Patients can usually return to their normal activities in a few days. Because natural breast tissue stretches to accommodate the implant, the breasts will most likely not be as attractive as they were before the implants. Breast implant replacement typically involves less discomfort than breast implant removal surgery, but the breasts will likely be sore for some time after the replacement, just as with the initial breast augmentation. Discomfort will, however, be significantly reduced. Breast implant revision recovery is relatively quick compared to other plastic surgeries involving the breasts.

What results can I expect after breast implant revision?

If you plan to have your breast implants removed, it is important to seek an experienced breast implant removal surgeon for optimal results. When large breast implants are removed, the natural breasts often have a deflated, sagging appearance. This is because the implants stretch breast tissue. A qualified surgeon can ensure your breast implant removal leaves your breasts nearly as attractive as they were prior to surgery. If you are replacing your implants, you may opt to maintain your breast size or select a larger or smaller size than your existing implants. As with the original breast augmentation, you can expect full, round breasts from your breast implant replacement. For the best breast implant revision results, talk to your breast implant revision surgeon and be sure he or she understands your goals for surgery.

What complications may occur after breast implant removal or replacement surgery?

Breast implant removal complications include loss of nipple sensation, bleeding, scarring, and some breast deformity. Breasts may sag or appear deflated if large implants are removed. This may be corrected with further breast plastic surgery. Serious complications are rare in breast implant removal. Breast implant replacement complications are similar to those of breast augmentation surgery and include rippling, rupture, implant displacement, loss of nipple sensation, and capsular contracture. See a licensed surgeon for more information about breast implant revision complications.

How much does breast implant removal or replacement surgery cost?

Breast implant revision usually costs from $1,000 to $4,000. Many factors can influence the cost of breast implant removal or replacement surgery, including the plastic surgeon you choose, the geographical location of the practice, and how involved the procedure itself will be. Cosmetic surgery financing plans can help make your breast implant revision more affordable.

Contact a Breast Implant Revision Surgeon for More Information

If you have bad breast implants or are simply unhappy with the appearance or size of your implants, a revision, whether it involves breast implant removal or replacement surgery, can restore your confidence in your body image. Find a qualified breast implant revision surgeon in your area for a personal consultation.