Breast Implant Replacement Surgery

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Benefits of Breast Implant Replacement

There are many benefits for addressing or correcting complications with your breast implants. In most cases, breast implant replacement benefits will achieve greater comfort for the woman, and giving them better peace of mind.

If complications arose around the shape or look, these corrective procedures can also help to increase confidence in the woman. And in the more extreme cases, this procedure can help improve the woman’s health and physical condition.

Reasons for breast implant replacement surgery include the following:

Updated Aesthetic Alignment:

• Achieve a refreshed appearance that better matches current beauty ideals or personal style preferences.
• Address dissatisfaction with the size, shape, or appearance of older implants that no longer complement your body.

Longevity and Safety of Implants:

• Maintain optimal health and safety standards by replacing implants that may be at risk of complications due to age.
• Prevent potential issues such as implant rupture or leakage, which can occur with older implants.

Enhancement of Comfort and Fit:

• Enhance daily comfort and confidence by adjusting implant size or type to better suit your body’s current shape and lifestyle changes.
• Alleviate discomfort, pain, or awkwardness from implants that no longer fit well due to body changes like significant weight loss or gain.

Access to Advanced Technology:

• Take advantage of the latest advancements in implant materials and design for improved feel and appearance.
• Upgrade from older implant technologies that may have limitations or increased risk of complications.

Personal Health and Wellbeing:

• Prioritise your health by addressing any medical recommendations to replace implants for safety reasons.
• Resolve any physical symptoms or health concerns directly related to older or malfunctioning implants, such as unusual swelling or changes in breast texture.

When is it Recommended to Replace your Implants?

Breast implant replacement is typically recommended based on a combination of clinical guidelines and personal circumstances. Me Clinic Specialist Plastic Surgeons advise considering replacement includes the following:

• General Timeframe: It is typically recommended to have breast implant replacement around the 10-year mark. This guideline is based on the average lifespan of implants and aims to pre-empt any risks associated with older implants such as rupture or degradation.
• Following Significant Life Events: This includes changes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, or substantial weight fluctuations. These events can alter the breast’s size and shape, potentially making the existing implants look disproportionate or feel uncomfortable.
• Desire for Aesthetic Update: If you wish to modify the size, type, or shape of your implants due to changed aesthetic preferences or advancements in implant technology, replacement can be a suitable option. This allows alignment of the implants with current beauty standards or personal satisfaction.
• Personal Comfort and Lifestyle Changes: Replacement may be considered if there is a need for implants that better suit your current lifestyle. For example, some may switch from high-profile implants to a more natural look or vice versa depending on new lifestyle requirements or personal comfort.
• Proactive Maintenance: To ensure optimal implant integrity and aesthetics, replacement may be advised before any visible complications occur. This proactive approach helps maintain the aesthetic quality and safety of the implants.
• Addressing Complications: If complications such as capsular contracture, pain, or malposition are observed, a removal and replacement of your existing implants is necessary. This is associated with a Breast Implant Revision Surgery, which at times is a more comprehensive correction procedure.

By scheduling a consultation at Me Clinic, individuals can receive a personalised assessment from our Specialist Plastic Surgeons who can determine the most opportune time for implant replacement, taking into account all medical, aesthetic, and personal factors.

About the Breast Implant Replacement Procedure

Breast implant replacement is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia by our Specialist Plastic Surgeons at Me Clinic. The surgery is meticulously planned and performed to ensure the highest standards of safety and aesthetics.

The breast implant replacement surgery typically involves the following:

• Consultation and Planning: The process begins with a thorough consultation where your Plastic Surgeon will discuss your medical history, current implants, and your goals for the replacement. This includes deciding on the type, size, and shape of the new implants.
• Anesthesia: On the day of the surgery, you will be administered general anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon will make incisions usually along the lines of the previous scars to minimise additional scarring. The location of the incision depends on the type of implant, the particular technique optimised for the procedure, and your body’s anatomy.
• Removal of Old Implants: The existing implants are carefully removed. If there is any scar tissue that has formed around the old implants (capsular contracture), it may also be removed during this time.
• Insertion of New Implants: New implants are then inserted into the breast pockets. The positioning (either above or below the muscle) will depend on your previous placement, your body structure, and the agreed-upon aesthetic goals.
• Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and in some cases, surgical glue or tapes might be used to aid the healing of the incision sites.
• Recovery: After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be closely monitored as you wake from anesthesia. Most breast implant replacement surgeries are outpatient procedures, meaning you can go home the same day once your recovery from anesthesia is deemed safe.
• Post-Operative Care: Before leaving the clinic, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical sites, medications to take to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow up with your surgeon. You will also be advised on when you can resume normal activities and what signs to watch for in case of complications.

Breast implant replacement at Me Clinic is designed to be a transformative experience, with every step taken to ensure optimal results that meet your expectations and enhance your wellbeing. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeons are committed to providing personalised care and attention throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to full recovery.

Breast Implant Replacement vs Breast Implant Revision

The primary contention for breast implant replacement is based on personal choice and proactive maintenance. The focus is on updating or upgrading to new implants due to natural lifecycle, aesthetic preferences, or advancements in implant technology. It’s typically viewed as an elective update that reflects personal desires or life changes rather than a corrective necessity.

Breast implant revision is typically contentious due to medical necessity or corrective action. It involves addressing complications, dissatisfaction with previous surgical outcomes, or unexpected changes post-surgery. The focus here is on resolving issues that impact the health, safety, or satisfaction of the patient.

In summary, while breast implant replacement often focuses on updating or upgrading for personal reasons, breast implant revision addresses specific clinical issues requiring medical intervention to correct or improve the outcome of a previous breast augmentation. Although both procedures involve the removal and replacement of implants, there are distinctions in circumstances.

Changing implant type, size and shape

Changing your breast implant type, size, or shape during a breast implant replacement procedure is possible at Me Clinic. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeons offer a comprehensive range of options to meet your evolving aesthetic preferences or lifestyle changes.

During a breast implant replacement, you have the flexibility to choose a different type of implant. For instance, if you initially had saline implants and are seeking a more natural feel, you might consider switching to silicone implants. Conversely, if you started with silicone and prefer the adjustability of saline, especially concerning the final volume adjustment during surgery, switching to saline implants could be the right choice for you.

Size adjustments are also a common request. Many patients opt to change the size of their implants to better suit changes in their body weight, age, or personal taste. Whether you desire a larger or smaller size, our Plastic Surgeons can accommodate your needs, ensuring that the new implants are proportionate to your body’s frame and aligned with your aesthetic goals.

Additionally, you have the option to change the shape of your implants. Implants come in various shapes, such as round or anatomical (teardrop-shaped). Each shape offers different benefits in terms of how it influences the breast’s profile and overall appearance. For example, round implants are known for providing a fuller appearance at the top of the breasts, while teardrop-shaped implants offer a more gradual slope and can look more naturally contoured.

Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons are here to guide you through the available options, helping you make informed decisions that best reflect your current desires and long-term satisfaction.

Breast Implant Replacement Recovery

The recovery and timeline following a breast implant replacement procedure at Me Clinic are carefully planned to ensure your comfort and the best possible healing outcomes. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeons and support staff are dedicated to providing comprehensive post-operative care, guiding you through each stage of the recovery process. During your consultation, Me Clinic provide a more in-depth breakdown of the recovery timeline. Here is what typically is involved with a breast implant removal and replacement surgery:

Immediate Post-Operative Period:

Immediately after the surgery, you will spend a short time in the recovery room under close monitoring to ensure your safe recovery from anesthesia. Most breast implant replacement procedures are outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day, provided there are no complications and you are feeling well enough.

First Few Weeks:

During the first few days, it’s normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical areas. Pain can typically be managed with prescribed medications. You will be advised to wear a supportive surgical bra, which helps to minimise swelling and supports the new breast shape as it heals. Strenuous activities should be avoided during this time, but gentle movements are encouraged to promote blood circulation.

Follow-Up Visits:

You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to remove any stitches (if they are not dissolvable), check on your healing progress, and ensure there are no signs of complications. These visits are also an opportunity for you to ask any questions and discuss any concerns about your recovery.

Returning to Normal Activities:

Most patients are able to return to work and normal daily activities within one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job and how they feel. However, heavy lifting, high-impact exercises, and vigorous physical activities should be avoided for up to six weeks or until your surgeon gives you the clear to resume such activities.

Long-Term Care:

The final shape and feel of your breasts will settle over several weeks to months. Swelling will gradually diminish, and scar lines will improve, although they may take several months to fade significantly. It’s important to continue monitoring your breast health and attending regular check-ups as advised by your surgeon.

Special Considerations:

If you have concerns about the appearance or feel of your implants at any point, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s crucial to contact Me Clinic immediately. Regular mammograms and, for silicone implants, occasional MRI scans may be recommended to monitor the integrity of the implants.

Our team at Me Clinic ensures that you are fully informed about what to expect during your recovery and are supported every step of the way. We aim to make your recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible, with optimal results that meet your expectations.

Suitable candidates for a Breast Implant Replacement

Ideal candidates for breast implant replacement at Me Clinic are those who have had their implants for around or beyond the typical lifespan of 10 years and are considering updates to prevent potential complications. This includes individuals looking to update the size, shape, or type of their implants to better match their current aesthetic preferences or body changes due to significant life events like weight fluctuations or pregnancy.

Candidates might also be interested in taking advantage of the latest advancements in implant technology for improved safety and a more natural appearance. Additionally, those experiencing discomfort from their current implants or who are proactive about their breast health might choose replacement as a preventative measure to ensure ongoing satisfaction and well-being.

What does a Breast Implant Replacement cost?

The variations of requirements for this procedure can be quite significant. We must first determine your specific goals and the best path to achieve them during a consultation, after which our team can provide you with an exact cost of breast implant replacement.

The Me Clinic team will provide you with a customised, no-obligation quote which you can use to consider the recommendation before deciding to move forward.

Me Clinic’s experience across a range of breast procedures

The Me Clinic portfolio features many successful breast surgeries. As a result, our team’s experienced cosmetic surgeons are experts in the field, and best positioned to achieve the results that you desire for your situation.

We focus on understanding every patient’s unique situation, applying our many years of experience and knowledge into a recommendation that will provide the best outcome. Trust our high-level of experience and many years of cosmetic surgery work and book an appointment to determine the best path forward for you today. We are strict about ensuring the highest surgical ethics and safety codes, so you have complete peace of mind as we progress.

Book a Consultation with Me Clinic

If you are considering breast implant replacement or have questions about your current implants, we encourage you to book a consultation at Me Clinic. Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons is here to provide expert guidance, assess your individual needs, and discuss all available options. During your consultation, we will take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your health and current implants, and explain the benefits of different implant types and procedures.

Me Clinic’s personalised approach ensures that you receive the most appropriate recommendations tailored to your specific circumstances. To schedule your consultation and take the first step towards ensuring your implants are as comfortable and aesthetically pleasing as possible, please contact Me Clinic today. We look forward to helping you achieve your desired results with confidence and care.