It is essential to consult with a specialist Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in Breast Revision Surgery. During a consultation the surgeon will evaluate your requirements and objectives, suggest the most suitable methods and discuss the potential risks and complications, results, and costs associated with the procedure.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Breast Implant Replacement (Breast Revision) Surgery
Generally, a suitable candidate for Breast Implant Replacement surgery is someone who;
- Has had an MRI diagnosed of ruptured implant/implants
- Wishes to change the shape, size and/or type of implant
- Has saline implants wishing to change to newer silicone implants
- Wishes to reduce implant visibility or rippling
- Has Capsular Contracture
- Has had same implants for 10+ years, (most manufacturers recommend a 10-year life span)
- Has Realistic expectations
- Is unhappy with the result from a previous breast surgery
Possible Results of Breast Implant Replacement Surgery
Breast Implant Replacement surgery offers several possible results which can vary depending on the individual’s specific goals and circumstances, including:
- Desired Aesthetics
- Patients can change the size, shape, or type of implants to better match their desired look or correct issues such as asymmetry.
- Addressing Complications
- Breast implant replacement can resolve complications that may have arisen with the existing implants, such as rupture, leakage, capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant), implant malposition, or visible rippling.
- Addressing Discomfort
- Patients who experienced discomfort or pain due to complications with their original implants may find relief after replacement surgery.
- Longevity
- Modern breast implants are designed to be durable but they are not intended to last a lifetime.
- Replacement allows patients to maintain their desired breast size and shape while ensuring the longevity and safety of their implants.
- Customisation
- Breast implant replacement surgery offers the opportunity to customise the breast appearance according to the patient’s preferences and lifestyle changes.
- Updated Technology
- Over time advancements in implant technology may offer better options in terms of materials, shapes, and textures.
- Replacement surgery allows patients to take advantage of these innovations.
- Symmetry
- Breast implant replacement can help correct breast asymmetry.
It is important to remember that the results of Breast Implant Replacement surgery should be discussed in detail with a highly skilled and qualified surgeon. The surgeon will assess the patient’s specific situation, goals, and concerns and provide personalised recommendations based on their individual needs.
Breast Implant Replacement Surgery The Procedure
Although every surgery is tailored to the patients needs, the steps are generally as follows:
Anesthesia
On the day of the surgery, the patient will be placed under general anesthesia.
Incision and Implant Removal
The surgeon makes incisions, typically in the same location as the initial breast augmentation surgery incisions. The old breast implants are carefully removed. If there are any complications, such as capsular contracture, the surgeon may address them during this stage.
Assessment and Tissue Adjustment
The surgeon assesses the condition of the breast tissues and the implant pocket. Any necessary adjustments to the implant pocket or surrounding tissues may be made to ensure the optimal positioning of the new implants.
New Implant Placement
If the patient chooses to replace their existing implants with new ones, the surgeon inserts the new implants according to the size, shape and type. The surgeon takes care to achieve the desired appearance.
Closure of Incisions
Once the new implants are in place the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures. Skin closure techniques aim to reduce scarring.
Recovery and Observation
The patient is monitored as they awaken from the anesthetic. They may be observed in a recovery area for a period to ensure their stability.
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding and haematoma
- Scarring
- Anesthesia complications
- Changes in breast and nipple sensation
- Capsular contracture – scar tissue forms around the implant
- Implant malposition
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Asymmetry
- Seroma
- Delayed healing
- Allergic reactions
- DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
- PE (Pulmonary Embolism)
- Unsatisfactory results
All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of Breast Implant Replacement surgery please visit the risks of surgery page.
Recovery
Recovery from Breast Implant Replacement surgery is an important phase in achieving desired results and minimising the risk of complications. The specific recovery experience can vary from person to person. Maintaining open communication with your surgeon, following their post-operative instructions and giving your body adequate time to heal are crucial for a successful recovery. It is essential to have realistic expectations about the timeline for seeing final results, as the healing process can be gradual.
It is common to experience pain, discomfort and swelling after the surgery which can be managed by pain medication. Sterile dressings and bandages are typically applied to the incision sites and patients are often instructed to wear a surgical or sports bra to provide support to the breasts and help minimise swelling.
In the first few weeks, patients should avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, or any activities that could strain the chest muscles. Your surgeon will advise when you can start gradually increasing your activity and when you can resume normal activities.
It can take several months for the breasts to settle into their final position and for swelling to fully subside. Patience is key in seeing the full results of the surgery.
Regular follow up appointments with the surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
How Much does Breast Implant Replacement Cost?
- The cost of surgery can be influenced by several factors such as the type of implant chosen, the complexity of the procedure, the Surgeon’s fees, Anaesthetist’s fees, length of stay in hospital and other related expenses.
- In Melbourne the average cost of breast implant replacement and breast revision surgery ranges from $16,000 to $30,000.
- It is important to consult with your surgeon to obtain a personalised quote based on your circumstances and desired outcome.
- Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is crucial for a desired outcome, so it is not recommended to base your decision solely on cost.
- Always prioritise safety and the quality of care when considering breast implant replacement surgery.
Why Choose Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery?
Not all Surgeons have the same experience or intensive training and qualifications. Be sure you learn the differences between a Plastic Surgeon, a General Surgeon, a Cosmetic Surgeon or other types of Surgeon.
Choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon means you are choosing an accredited recognised plastic surgeon that performs surgery in an accredited hospital. Look for members of;
- FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons)
- ASPS (Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons)
- ASAPS (Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons)
- or, ISAPS (International Society Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) as some of the Qualifications of your Plastic Surgeon.
Our Breast Implant Replacement Surgeons
Dr Craig Rubinstein, Dr Gary Kode and Dr Broughton Snell are highly experienced, fully qualified specialist plastic surgeons with current FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) memberships.
How to Book your Initial Consultation
- Email us below or Call on (03) 8849 1400 to arrange your surgeon consultation appointment OR
- A Referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or from your Medical Specialist is required (as of 1st July 2023).
- A consultation with one of our surgeons is $300.00
Want more information before Scheduling your Surgeon consultation?
- Browse our Frequently Asked Questions including how to choose a Surgeon for your procedure
Further Reading Medical References
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal- Prepectoral Revision Breast Reconstruction for Treatment of Implant-Associated Animation Deformity: A Review of 102 Reconstructions
- Breast Implant Replacement Melbourne
- ABCS- Guide to Breast Revision Surgery
- RealSelf- what do you need to know about Breast Revision Surgery
- The Aesthetic Society- Guide to Breast Revision
