Breast implant exchange or removal is a personal decision that can be driven by various factors, whether due to cosmetic preferences, medical reasons, or lifestyle changes. At Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery, we provide expert care to help you make informed decisions about your breast health and aesthetics.
We understand that every woman’s needs are unique, especially when it comes to breast implant exchange or removal. We take a personalized and holistic approach, considering both your aesthetic goals and overall well-being. During your consultation, we’ll work closely with you to determine the best path forward, whether that involves implant exchange, removal, or additional procedures like a breast lift to achieve your desired look.
Here are some of the considerations we’ll discuss during your consultation:
Your consultation at Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery will be comprehensive and tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that the end result not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Breast implant exchange involves replacing current implants with new ones. Reasons for opting for an exchange include desiring a different size or type of implant, correcting complications like implant rupture, or upgrading to newer implant technology. This procedure can also address changes in breast tissue over time or shifts in body image preferences.
Some women choose to increase or decrease their breast size after the initial surgery. Others may opt for switching from saline to silicone implants or vice versa.
Over time, complications such as capsular contracture, implant deflation, or rupture may occur, necessitating a change. In these cases, exchanging implants can restore both aesthetic appearance and comfort.
Advancements in implant materials and shapes make newer implants more durable and natural-looking, prompting some to seek an exchange for the latest innovations.
For some women, removing implants entirely is the preferred option. Whether it’s due to lifestyle changes, medical reasons like breast implant illness (BII), or the natural aging process, breast implant removal can help patients feel more comfortable in their bodies. In some cases, patients opt for a removal procedure with a breast lift to restore a youthful contour and reduce sagging.
Although rare, some women report symptoms like chronic fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog that they associate with their implants. In such cases, removal may alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.
Over time, gravity and aging may cause natural breast tissue to sag. Some women prefer to remove their implants and opt for additional procedures like a breast lift to maintain a desired shape.
A patient’s aesthetic goals or lifestyle may shift over the years. Some may prefer a more natural look, while others may decide that implants are no longer aligned with their self-image.
Both implant exchange and removal procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia and take 1 to 3 hours. If opting for implant exchange, new implants are placed, while any scar tissue is addressed as needed. For removal, the surgeon may perform a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue surrounding the implant. In some cases, a breast lift is recommended after removal to ensure optimal results.
After surgery, patients should expect some downtime. Most return to light activities within a week, with more strenuous activities resuming after 4 to 6 weeks, depending on individual recovery. As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and changes in nipple sensation. Discussing your medical history and goals with your surgeon will help determine the best approach for your individual needs.
At Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery, our experienced surgeons are dedicated to helping you achieve the look and comfort you desire. We offer personalized consultations to understand your goals and provide detailed guidance throughout the entire process—whether you are considering an implant exchange or complete removal. Our priority is ensuring your safety, comfort, and satisfaction with long-term results.
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, I was given a peer recommendation for Dr. Bruno, and I am so grateful for it. I required a unilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, and a breast reduction. Dr. Bruno was sensitive to my insecurities and was available at any time to answer questions and provide complete explanations. His kindness and soothing demeanor was very helpful during the entire process and made me feel confident about coming out of this health crisis successfully, which I did, and with a beautifully reduced breast that shows no scar whatsoever.”
— Christine F.“Dr. Brown is a true artist and very concerned with aesthetics when approaching all procedures. I had my ear lobes repaired from big gauges and he has fixed them better than I was born with! They are so cute and perfect now. I would trust him to improve anything I found bothersome about myself!”
— Jourdan D.