Breast Implant Replacement
Do I Have to Replace My Breast Implants?
Breast implants can give great long-term results from a breast augmentation procedure, but the reality is that you will likely have to replace them at some point during your life. Sometimes this is due to an implant failure, but other times it is due to the natural changes in your breasts that may lead to less attractive results over time. If you are unhappy with the results from a previous procedure, you may decide you want to improve those results with a different size of implant.
Reasons for Breast Implant Replacement
There are many reasons why women seek to replace their breast implants, including:
- Breast implant rupture or deflation
- Capsular contracture
- Changes in results over time
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
- A desire for a different size
- The normal aging process of the breast
In the past, some surgeons recommended that you regularly replace your breast implants every ten years or so, but this is no longer the case. As long as you are happy with them and not having any issues, we can leave your breast implants in place indefinitely.
Breast Implant Failure
Silicone breast implants do not visibly deflate when ruptured. Instead, rupture of a silicone breast implant is normally detected with a regular MRI. Although it is not an emergency, we will still try to get you scheduled for a consultation quickly.
Changes in Results Over Time
The majority of women are initially satisfied with the results of their breast augmentation. Over time, these results may change. Just like natural breasts, augmented breasts can age and shift over time, which may diminish your satisfaction with their appearance. Capsular contracture can also cause your results to change over time, and when serious (or painful) may require breast implant replacement.
Unsatisfactory Cosmetic Results
Sometimes, you may not get the results you desire from breast augmentation. It could be because you may not like the shape of your breasts, they may be uneven, or you may have poor scarring. Unacceptable results can be corrected with a breast implant revision surgery. Remember, it’s important to wait until you’re fully healed before you begin to critically evaluate your results. Results can take at least 6 months, or more before fully healed.
Changing the Size or Style of Breast Implants
The most common reason why women are not satisfied with the results of their breast augmentation is that they simply want a different size or style of breast implant. Women choose to go larger or smaller with their implant size and the reasons are varied. Another common request for breast implant replacement is to change from saline to silicone gel breast implants. Silicone implants often produce a more natural appearance.
Satisfactory Results Backed With Years of Experience
No matter the reason why you want to replace your breast implants, it is crucial to talk to a surgeon with experience in breast implant revision surgery. Our certified plastic surgeons have extensive experience performing breast augmentation with all types and styles of breast implants for patients in the Tampa Bay area and across Florida. You can see examples of these great results in our Before and After Gallery. We invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our providers to discuss replacing your breast implants and providing you with the restorative results you need.