Breast implant revision

There are several reasons why patients choose breast implants.

What are breast implants?

Breast implants are medical devices used in plastic surgery to augment or reconstruct the breasts. Typically composed of a silicone or polyurethane shell, they are filled with silicone gel or saline solution.

Breast implants come in various sizes, shapes, and textures to meet the individual needs of patients and the recommendations of the surgeon.

In what cases can breast implants be requested?

Breast implants are indicated for cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. Plastic surgeons use implants for breast augmentation to increase breast size and cup size, or following a mastectomy after breast cancer to reconstruct the breast.

Breast implant revision refers to a surgical procedure in which existing breast implants are removed and replaced with new ones.

The goal is to ensure a natural appearance, perfect fit, and harmonious aesthetic result, while considering the patient’s health and well-being.

This procedure may be sought to transition to a different breast size, address issues related to previous implants, or replace aging implants. However, it is not necessary to replace breast implants every 10 years.

While it is not feasible to keep the same implants indefinitely, their removal and replacement occur in case of complications or because they show signs of wear. They can last up to 20 years depending on the material used, their placement, and manufacturing.

After determining the need to change breast implants, ensuring there are no contraindications, and completing all necessary pre-operative appointments essential for the smooth progress of the procedure, the operation can take place.

Replacing breast implants is a procedure performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis or with a 24-hour hospital stay. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the existing implants, and sometimes the fibrous capsule surrounding them. Then, they adjust the pocket in which the new implants will be placed to improve the shape and position of the breasts, and insert the new implants. The surgeon may choose to reopen the old incision or create a new one. These incisions minimize visible scarring.

Patients may also request a breast lift (mastopexy) along with implant replacement to achieve firmer and younger-looking breasts.

The first few days after the operation are typically associated with mild pain, swelling, and bruising, which gradually decrease over time. Patients are advised to wear a compression bra to reduce swelling and keep the new implants in place.

It is recommended to avoid intense physical activities for several weeks, but returning to light daily activities may be possible within a few days following the procedure.

Following the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon ensures optimal recovery.

Similar to initial breast implant placement, the cost of implant replacement varies based on their size and composition:

• For a pair of round or anatomical silicone breast implants: prices range between 450 and 550 euros.
• For a pair of round or anatomical saline breast implants: prices range between 250 and 350 euros.
• For a pair of round or anatomical polyurethane breast implants: prices are around 740 euros.