Breast Implant Removal and Replacement Surgery

Many women who have had breast implants may later need to have them removed and/or replaced, as breast implants are not guaranteed to last for a lifetime.

There are a number of reasons for this, most commonly this can be due to a breast cancer diagnosis, lifestyle changes or complications as a result of the implants such as infection or capsular contracture or changes in the shape and position of the implant.

Other reasons can include:

• Calcium build-up
• The development of dead tissues surrounding the implant or necrosis
• Ruptured implants
• Shifting of the implants position due to weight gain or weight loss
• Infection and silicone leak

Breast implant removal and replacement is a revision procedure for women who have had breast implants previously and due to different circumstances, now need them removed. Sometimes the removal and replacement of a breast implant can be more complicated than the original implant and is more susceptible to infection and/or bleeding due to scar tissue.

What does breast implant removal and replacement involve:

There are 4 most common breast implant removal and replacement surgeries, these are:

• The removal of the original implants only. In this instance, the incisions are located in the same area as when the initial breast implant surgery was performed. If the implants are being removed because of capsular contracture, Dr. Verma will remove the hardened capsules at the same time. This will assist in accelerating the healing process.
• Breast implant removal with reinsertion of new implants. In this procedure, the incisions used are located in the same position as that for the original implants.
• Breast implant removal coupled with a breast lift-mastopexy. When the implants are removed, the breast skin will naturally be stretched and loose. In this procedure after the removal of the implants, Dr. Verma will remove any natural excess skin and tighten the remaining breast skin to meet your individual aesthetic needs.

Where is it done:

Your breast implant removal and replacement procedure will be performed at the brand-new Honeysuckle Day Hospital in Newcastle, a fully licensed and accredited day hospital which is purposely equipped to care for cosmetic surgical procedures.

Length of Surgery:

Time of surgery is dependent upon your individual requirements and can take between two to three hours.

Type of anaesthesia:

General anaesthetic.

Day surgery or inpatient stay:

In most instances, breast implant removal and replacement are a day surgery procedure, but certain cases may require an overnight stay. Dr. Verma will discuss this with you at the time of your consultation.

Approximate Cost:

Costs for breast implant and replacement vary according to type, complexity, and length of the procedure. You will receive a quote with a cost of the procedure after your consultation with Dr. Verma, tailored to you.

Do you want to find out more about your options in regards to breast implant removal and replacement?

We advise booking a consultation with Dr. Verma. He will be able to discuss your individual needs and advise on what options are available and best suited to your lifestyle and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs.

Please also see our list of general FAQs for more details.

Do I qualify for breast implant removal and replacement?

If you have existing implants and have had changes in your life or appearance, or your implants are causing discomfort that requires them to be removed and/or replaced, you will likely qualify for surgery.

What to expect during the consultation?

During your consultation, Dr. Verma will discuss what surgery is most suitable for you. He will also take photographs as this is an important part of cosmetic surgery to document your progress pre- and post-operatively.

What are the risks and complications of breast implant removal and replacement surgery?

There are always risks and complications associated with surgery. Particular risks associated with breast implant removal and replacement include:

• Decreased breast sensitivity for up to 6 months post-surgery
• Development of thick painful scars
• Numbness

Deformity of the breast

Care of your wounds

You will be provided with detailed instructions by Finesse Cosmetic Surgery with regards to care of your sutures, wounds etc. Any sutures are usually removed in 7-10 days.

Downtime

In most instances, return to work is possible 5 days after your surgery. In more complex cases involving capsular contracture, a longer recovery period may be necessary and Dr. Verma will discuss this with you. You will be advised to avoid lifting items over 5 kilos or excessive exercising 6 weeks post-surgery. It will take several months for your breasts to settle into their new shape and position.

When will you see results?

Typically scars from breast implant removal and replacement heal well in stages with best results achieved in 3 -4 months after your tissues heal and the majority of swelling and bruising subsides.

What will be your follow up schedule?

Dr. Verma will see you one week post the operation and then organize subsequent follow-ups according to how you recover. All follow-up visits cost up to three months after the operation are included in the cost of the surgery. Revision surgery for any complications carries an extra charge.

Similar to your consultation visit (see above), Dr. Verma will be taking photographs of your breasts in order to document healing during follow up visits.