Breast Implant Removal & Replacement in Beverly Hills, CA
For many women, having an attractive, proportionate bust is essential to feeling feminine and boosting self-confidence. It is a common reason why women decide to have breast augmentation and why it remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures.
Table of Contents
- Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Options for Breast Implant Replacement
- Signs Breast Implant Removal Is Right for You
- Benefits of Breast Implant Removal
- Before & After Photos
- Results That Speak for Themselves
- Overview of a Typical Breast Implant Removal Procedure
- Recovering from Your Breast Implant Replacement
- What Are the Results Like?
- Combining Breast Procedures?
- Why choose Dr. Chiu?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
For many women, having an attractive, proportionate bust is essential to feeling feminine and boosting self-confidence. It is a common reason why women decide to have breast augmentation and why it remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Patients typically choose breast implant removal or replacement for one of three reasons: medical, comfort, or aesthetics. Each reason is valid and can be a sign that having your implants removed or replaced is the right choice for you.
Rippling
Occasionally, saline implants can cause a visual rippling effect when the skin is too thin to cover the implant properly. The implant needs to be removed.
Capsular Contracture
Scar tissue can form in the capsule around the implants. If this scar tissue hardens and tightens, it can lead to discomfort and compromised breast appearance. Possible solutions include en bloc capsulectomy.
Implant Rupture or Damage
Implants can rupture from damage or age. Saline implants will visibly deflate, but the saline can be absorbed by the body. A ruptured silicone implant may require an imaging study for a definitive diagnosis. Both instances require that the implant be removed.
Malposition
Implants can move or shift from their original position, leading to a change in the breast’s appearance.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
This is an autoimmune disease with a range of symptoms that patients may experience due to textured implants.
Implant Age
While implants can last for years, they do have a shelf life. Most patients can expect to have about 10 to 15 years in which implants stay in good shape. Beyond that, the FDA recommends replacing them to avoid complications.
Dr. Chiu is among the best plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills. He will evaluate your concerns and body type to determine the best options to achieve your breast revision goals.
Options for Breast Implant Replacement
Replace With the Same Implant Type:
If you are happy with how your body looks and feels with implants, you may simply wish to replace them with the same size, shape, and type of implant that you had before.
Removal Only:
Particularly in medical cases, implant removal alone may be the best course of action. This involves removing the implant and addressing any health-related concerns.
Change Implant Type:
Patients who are dissatisfied with the look or feel of their implants may benefit from an implant exchange. For example, a patient with saline implants could replace them with silicone implants. Or you could choose a different implant size and profile that may be more appropriate for you.
Signs Breast Implant Removal Is Right for You
A candidate for breast implant removal usually wants to address:
- Complications or illness: If you have experienced any medical symptoms due to breast implants, removing them may be important.
- Dissatisfaction with breast appearance: Whether you want to return to your pre-pregnancy breast size or further increase breast size.
- Peace of mind: Some patients prefer to have peace of mind by removing recalled textured implants to avoid the potential risks involved.
Benefits of Breast Implant Removal
- Address complications and improve health.
- Provide relief from uncomfortable implants.
- The peace of mind of not having foreign material in your body.
Overview of a Typical Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Initial Consultation
Visiting Dr. Chiu for a confidential, informative consultation appointment is the first step. He walks through your situation, conducts an exam, and explains your available options. Whether you pursue implant removal surgery or replacement, he works with you to create a plan that will deliver the outcome you want. If needed, he may recommend imaging studies.
Preparing for the Procedure
Preparing for your breast implant removal surgery will be similar to your breast augmentation procedure. There is nothing complicated to worry about. Preparing for breast implant replacement involves:
- Obtaining bloodwork
- Arranging for someone to drive you home
- Avoiding smoking or tobacco products
- Completing any imaging (e.g., X-rays)
Day of the Procedure
- Duration: On its own, breast implant removal can take between 1.5 and 3 hours. However, some cases may be longer. Factors that impact duration include whether one or both breasts are to be treated, any medical complications, and whether you are replacing implants.
- Anesthesia: We use general anesthesia to ensure patients experience no pain during their procedure. We ensure patients are in suitable health for a safe experience.
- Incisions: Whenever possible, we use the same incision location as your initial breast augmentation. Incision size and placement can vary, though, and will be determined by your individual procedure plan.
- New Implant Placement: If you are replacing breast implants, we do this at the end of the procedure. Dr. Chiu carefully places each implant, ensuring the position results in the desired breast look, shape, and feel.
- Wrapping Up: All incisions are closed, and you are woken up from the anesthetic. After spending some time in a comfortable recovery room, you can return home.
Recovering from Your Breast Implant Replacement
Each patient’s recovery will vary, but the two foundational elements are getting rest and following aftercare instructions. Together, these promote a safe recovery with results that match your goals.
The First Week
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected, just like with initial breast augmentation. Likewise, avoid all physical activity and take this time off from work. Focus on following all your post-procedure instructions.
The Second Week
Continue to avoid activity and focus on caring for your breasts. Some patients may return to work at the end of the week, but continue to keep your breasts safe.
Third to Fourth Weeks
Most of the bruising, swelling, and discomfort should fade within this period. However, engage in only light activities such as walking.
Beyond
Based on your follow-up visit with Dr. Chiu, you can make a gradual return to your daily routine. Residual bruising and swelling should resolve day by day.
What Are the Results Like?
For breast implant removal, the results can vary. Larger implants may lead to a more drastic change in appearance once removed. But smaller ones may be less noticeable. In either case, patients can expect to see their results after swelling goes down in the first couple of weeks. The same applies if you have your implants replaced. While immediate volume changes may be present, it is essential to wait for swelling to fade before seeing your final results. For most patients, all swelling fades within a few months.
Combining Breast Procedures?
Due to changes in breast shape and skin stretching after breast implant removal, some patients prefer to have a breast lift at the same time. This breast procedure with implant removal allows patients to give their breasts a perkier position after the loss of volume. Even if you want to replace your implants with smaller ones, a breast lift can help keep a youthful appearance to the breasts, which otherwise might take on a deflated look.
Why Choose Dr. Chiu?
Dr. Chiu is a board-certified surgeon who has helped thousands of patients improve the look and feel of their breasts.
He understands the disappointment that can come with dissatisfaction with cosmetic outcomes and takes the time to learn about a patient’s needs to develop a suitable procedure. He combines skill, medical expertise, and an eye for aesthetic beauty to deliver results that patients can enjoy for years.
Book Your Consultation
Dr. Chiu is proud to offer patients safe breast implant removal procedures near you for patients in Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas. Start your journey toward seeing relief from painful symptoms or dissatisfaction with your results when you schedule a consultation for a breast implant removal at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery®. Call our office or use our online form to take that first step and begin working with a leading, board-certified plastic surgeon to see safe, consistent outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
How do I know if my implants need to be replaced?
Different types of implants often show different signs that they need to be replaced. If your saline implant leaks or ruptures, you will know as soon as it happens, as your breast will visibly deflate. Another sign that your saline implant needs replacing is if you notice rippling or folding under your skin that wasn’t present before.
Common signs that your silicone implant needs replacing include visible changes in breast shape, firmness, pain, or swelling. Because silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel, they often continue to retain their shape when damaged, which is known as a “silent rupture.” Imaging, like an MRI or ultrasound, can confirm silent ruptures and should be done preventatively every couple of years to ensure your implants are still in good condition.
How often should breast implants be replaced?
There’s no exact timeline, but keep in mind that breast implants are not intended to be lifetime devices. Both saline and silicone implants typically last between 10 and 20 years, although some can last longer without issue. However, some implants may need to be replaced sooner due to complications or personal preference.
Replacing older implants with newer models, especially combined with a lift or reshaping of the breast pocket, can also refresh your breast appearance—enhancing the shape, volume, symmetry, and overall aesthetic of your body contour.
Can I switch from saline to silicone (or vice versa) during implant replacement?
Absolutely. Many patients choose to switch implant types during revision surgery. Dr. Chiu can help you weigh the pros and cons of each implant type and determine the best option for your goals.
What type of incision is used for breast implant removal or replacement?
In most cases, Dr. Chiu uses the same incision as your original augmentation—typically the periareolar or inframammary incision—to avoid creating new scars. However, the implant type and whether a lift is necessary can influence the incision placement.
Will my breast size be the same after implant replacement?
It depends on the new implants. While some patients opt for a similar size, others may choose to go larger or smaller.
If you decide to remove your implants without replacing them, your breasts will return to their natural size, though some sagging or volume loss may occur. A breast lift is an excellent way to help reshape and lift your breasts, resulting in a natural and more youthful appearance.
What are breast implant capsules, and will they be removed?
A capsule is the natural scar tissue your body forms around the breast implant. If it’s soft and healthy, it may be left in place without any issue. However, if it’s hardened due to capsular contracture, painful, or calcified, Dr. Chiu will likely perform a capsulectomy to remove it.
How long is the recovery after implant removal and replacement?
Recovery after implant removal and replacement is similar to your initial breast augmentation. Most patients can return to light activities within a week, with full recovery and return to more strenuous exercise and activities typically taking four to six weeks. Your recovery time may be longer if there was significant scar tissue removal or if a breast lift was performed alongside the implant removal. Dr. Chiu will provide you with a specific recovery timeline and instructions, so you know what to expect.
Does Dr. Chiu offer financing for breast implant removal/replacement?
Yes. Dr. Chiu offers financing options for his patients using ALPHAEON® Credit, CareCredit®, PatientFi, and Med Loan Finance. His surgical consultant can assist you with navigating the financing process.
Are there risks associated with breast implant removal and replacement?
The risks associated with breast implant removal and replacement are similar to those of your initial breast augmentation, and include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Poor wound healing
- Capsular contracture
- Implant rupture or leaks
- Changes in sensation around the nipple and areola
- Breast shape and size changes (deflating or sagging if the implant isn’t replaced)
- Asymmetry
- Implant malposition
The risks associated with breast implant removal and replacement are low; however, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast procedures, like Dr. Chiu, reduces the risks even further.
What other procedures can I combine with my breast implant removal and replacement?
Dr. Chiu offers several cosmetic procedures that are an excellent complement to your breast implant removal or replacement surgery, including:
Nearly any body contouring procedure can be added to your surgery for a more comprehensive and stunning result, so be sure to talk with Dr. Chiu about your options at your consultation.
Patient Reviews
J
Being a patient at BHPS has been an amazing experience. Everyone here has been extremely sweet and welcoming. The whole process from beginning to end has been very pleasant and I am happy that I decided to get my “girls” here. I have already started recommending you guys!
Julianna
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery® is awesome! I had my breast augmentation done with Dr. Chiu, and just after a week I was driving and felt physically great! I have very natural results; my friends and family love it and told me that my new “friends” can’t look any better!…
Kelly
I would first like to thank all the staff at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery®: Dr. Chiu, Chammy, Suzy, and Mallory. I appreciate everyone’s professionalism, accommodation, and kindness throughout my breast augmentation. I found Dr. Chiu through a Google search for top plastic surgeons in the area…
Aliaksandra
Dear Dr. Chiu, You are an amazing, skilled and talented surgeon. Truly, I feel blessed to have been your patient. From my initial consultation up until today, you have been warm, genuine, caring and professional. What I appreciate most is the time you took to guide me through the process of planning my breast augmentation…
Lisa
Dr. Chiu and his staff are the absolute best! My consultation was done thoroughly and he made sure to answer all my questions and let me know that he was there for me if I needed anything else. Every followup appointment, Dr. Chiu and his staff made me feel at home, I’d highly recommend him to anybody who is interested in pursing a cosmetic procedure!
Ariel
Dr. Chiu and his staff have been more than amazing to work with. The surgery process was effortless and I felt fully prepared for everything. I am more than happy with the results and Dr. Chiu and his team was with me every step of the way. Dr Chiu is very professional and I never once felt uncomfortable…