Revitalize your silhouette with a breast implant exchange—a personalized procedure for updating or modifying implants, allowing adjustments in size, shape, or type to achieve your aesthetic goals. Whether seeking volume changes or addressing implant-related concerns, this surgery offers a transformative approach for an enhanced breast appearance.

Is it right for me? 

Breast implant exchange is a highly personalized procedure, and the decision should be driven by your own aspirations, not external influences or societal ideals. Consider breast implant exchange if:

• You are dissatisfied with the size, shape, or appearance of your current breast implants.
• Concerns arise about the integrity or condition of your existing implants.
• You maintain good physical health and a stable weight.
• Realistic expectations guide your decision-making process.
• You are a nonsmoker.

Ensuring these criteria align with your individual circumstances will help determine if breast implant exchange is the right choice for you.

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have.

Questions to Consider:

• What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
• Are other options available?
• What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
• Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
• Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

Your surgeon will:

• Discuss previous surgeries. 
• Assess your overall health, considering any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors.
• Thoroughly examine and measure your breasts, considering size, shape, skin quality, and the placement of nipples and areolas.
• Capture photos for reference.
• Discuss about your options.
• Provide recommendations for a tailored course of treatment.
• Discuss potential outcomes, risks, and any complications associated with breast augmentation.

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

The effectiveness and safety of your breast implant revision hinge on your open and honest communication during the consultation. Expect questions about your health, goals, and lifestyle, and feel free to openly express any emotions, whether it’s excitement or preoperative stress. Your plastic surgeon is here to address your concerns and ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.

There are several things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your Pre-Op Checklist:

• Make sure you have arranged for someone to drive you to surgery and stay with you for a few nights.
• Consult with your surgeon and adhere to their instructions.
• Take prescribed medications or modify current medication as directed.
• Complete necessary lab tests within 30 days of your procedure.
• Cease smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
• Refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements to mitigate potential bleeding.

Day of Surgery:

• Be on time for your scheduled surgery appointment.
• Bring a companion aged 18 or older.
• Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight prior to your surgery.
• Use antibacterial soap for a thorough body wash before the procedure.
• Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove on the day of your surgery.

Above all, adhering to your surgeon’s pre-surgery recommendations is key to a successful and swift recovery.

Anesthesia:

Receive medications for comfort during surgery, with options like intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will guide you toward the most suitable choice for your situation.

The Incision:

The incision type for breast implant revision varies based on the procedures involved. Options may include, but are not limited to:

• Inframammary incision – in the crease under the breast
• Breast lift incision – either vertical or Wise pattern incision
• Peri-areolar incision – part way or all the way around the areola

Closing the Incisions:

Utilize sutures, skin adhesives, tapes, or clips to securely close the skin incisions, completing the breast implant revision process.

Recovery durations after Breast Implant Exchange vary for each patient (days to months).

Following your breast implant exchange procedure, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. To minimize swelling and provide support during the healing process, an elastic bandage or support bra is recommended. 

In some cases a temporary, thin tube may be placed to drain excess blood or fluid.

You will receive detailed instructions covering:

• Proper care for your breasts post-surgery
• Medications for healing and infection prevention
• Specific signs to monitor at the surgical site and for overall health
• Follow-up schedule with your plastic surgeon

Ensure you address specific queries about your individual recovery:

• Post-surgery destination
• Prescribed medications
• Duration of dressings/bandages and removal timeline.
• Are the stitches scheduled for removal, and if so, when is the expected timeframe? 
• When can I safely resume normal activities and exercise? 
• What is the recommended timing for my follow-up care appointment?

Your plastic surgeon and/or their team will provide detailed explanations of surgery-associated risks. Consent forms will be signed to ensure your full comprehension of the procedure and potential complications.

Some Risks Involved:

• Unfavorable scarring
•  Bleeding (hematoma)
•  Infection
•  Incision healing challenges
•  Changes in nipple or breast sensation (may be temporary or long-lasting)
• Capsular contracture (formation of scar tissue around the implant)
•  Implant leakage or rupture