Breast Implant Removal and Replacement

A breast augmentation usually leaves women with a satisfying appearance that lasts many years. Sometimes patients wish to undergo a second breast enhancement procedure to replace their implants for various reasons.

Ideal Candidates

Good candidates for breast implant replacement are in good physical and emotional health. Patients should not smoke or take anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, to avoid blood-thinning complications during surgery. Even though implant replacement is safe and effective, patients should have realistic expectations about the results of their procedure.

Candidates should undergo breast implant replacement if they have one or more of the following:

• Desire to improve breast size
• Capsular contracture
• Double bubble deformity
• Implant leak or rupture

During your consultation, Dr. Chiu will discuss your goals and medical history to determine if breast implant removal surgery is beneficial for you.

The Procedure

Breast implant replacement is performed on an outpatient basis under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. To perform the procedure, Dr. Chiu will either reopen the incisions from the previous breast enhancement surgery or make new inconspicuous incisions in the breasts. Once the old implants are removed, new implants are inserted through the same incisions and placed in the proper position.

Recovery

After the procedure is complete, the breast area will be wrapped with bandages and a specialized compression garment to minimize swelling. Any pain or discomfort that exists after surgery can be alleviated with prescribed pain medication. Most women can return to work about a week after surgery, but should avoid any form of strenuous activity for the first 4-6 weeks thereafter.

Your New Look

The final results of breast implant replacement are not immediately apparent after the procedure is complete. However, your new look will become more apparent as swelling and bruising subside over the next few weeks and your breasts achieve their new contour.

Whether you want to replace implants because of capsular contracture or simply wish to increase the size of your breasts, please contact Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Chiu, please call (888) 754-8955 or fill out our online contact form today.