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Home»Breast & Body»Breast Implant Exchange

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  1. What is Breast Implant Exchange Surgery?
  2. Why Consider Breast Implant Exchange?
  3. Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Breast Implants
  4. Benefits of Replacing Breast Implants with Fat Grafting
  5. Natural-Looking Results: Fat Grafting vs. Implants
  6. Breast Implant Exchange: What to Expect During the Procedure
  7. Recovery and Results: Your Journey After Implant Exchange
  8. Choosing the Right Implants: Options for Your Exchange Surgery
  9. Combining Breast Implant Exchange with Other Procedures
  10. How to Prepare for Your Breast Implant Exchange Surgery
  11. Why Choose CARE Plastic Surgery for your Breast Implant Removal or Breast Implant Exchange Surgery?
  12. Before and After
  13. Frequently Asked Questions
  14. Related Videos
  15. Meet Dr. Coan
  16. Gallery
  17. Request a Consultation!
  18. Real Testimonials
  19. Contact Us
  20. Beauty of the Ages
  21. Patient Stories
  22. Additional Treatments to Consider

Perhaps you have grown tired of having implants that are too large for your frame. Perhaps after progressing through years of pregnancy and breastfeeding, your implants no longer lend the correct volume or shape that you want. It could be that you have a ruptured implant that needs to be replaced or you just want a different size.

What is Breast Implant Exchange Surgery?

Breast implant exchange surgery is an operation done under general anesthesia to remove an existing implant and replace it with a new implant. Commonly both implants are changed for the best match. It is not uncommon to do this in conjunction with a breast lift, which helps reshape the breast mound and elevate a drooping nipple.

Why Consider Breast Implant Exchange?

As life changes, so do your aesthetic goals. Whether your current implants no longer suit your lifestyle, your body has changed over time, or you are ready for a new look, breast implant exchange surgery can help you feel more confident with your appearance. At CARE Plastic Surgery, we are here to help you feel comfortable and confident about your next step.

Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Breast Implants

There are several reasons patients choose to exchange their breast implants. You may notice changes in size, shape, or position after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight fluctuations. Common signs that it is time for a breast implant removal and exchange include implant rupture, hardening (known as capsular contracture), rippling, asymmetry, or feeling that your implants no longer align with your aesthetic.

Benefits of Replacing Breast Implants with Fat Grafting

For those seeking a more natural look and feel, fat grafting is an ideal option. Using liposuction, fat is harvested from another area of your body and then carefully injected into the breasts to enhance shape and volume, especially if you have experienced breast volume loss. This technique enables a subtle and gentle enhancement, with body contouring in the area where fat is removed.

Natural-Looking Results: Fat Grafting vs. Implants

Fat grafting provides a subtle enhancement that mimics the texture and movement of natural breast tissue. Implants, on the other hand, allow for more dramatic changes in size and projection and can be placed to enhance fullness in the upper pole of the breast. At CARE Plastic Surgery, we will help you compare both options so you can choose what feels right for your lifestyle and goals. Natural does not mean one-size-fits-all.

Breast Implant Exchange: What to Expect During the Procedure

Implant exchange surgery is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, typically taking one to two hours to complete. Dr. Coan will remove the existing implants, make any needed adjustments to the breast pocket, and place new implants or perform fat grafting if that is your choice. In some cases, a breast lift is also performed to elevate the breast and improve its overall shape.

Recovery and Results: Your Journey After Implant Exchange

You will be able to go home the same day as your procedure and can expect some soreness, swelling, and tightness for the first few days. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a week and resume exercise after a few weeks. Your final results become visible as swelling subsides, especially if you had your breast implants removed and opted for fat grafting or a lift to restore contour.

Choosing the Right Implants: Options for Your Exchange Surgery

Whether you are going larger or smaller or switching implant types, Dr. Coan will guide you through all your options. You can choose from silicone implants or saline implants, in various shapes, including round or teardrop, and select the ideal size and projection to suit your frame. We will help you visualize your implant replacement choices and ensure your new implants feel just right.

Combining Breast Implant Exchange with Other Procedures

It is common to pair implant exchange with a breast lift, liposuction, or other body contouring procedures. These combination procedures can help you achieve more cohesive results and can minimize overall recovery time. During your consultation, we will also address any previous breast implant complications that may influence your surgical plan.

How to Prepare for Your Breast Implant Exchange Surgery

Before your breast surgery, you will have a consultation with our board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Coan, during which you will discuss your goals, medical history, and surgical plan. We will walk you through your breast augmentation surgery history and discuss breast implant exchange options, including whether implant removal or replacement is best if you have experienced breast volume loss over time. Our team will ensure you feel fully informed throughout every step of the process.

Why Choose CARE Plastic Surgery for your Breast Implant Removal or Breast Implant Exchange Surgery?

Dr. Coan is an expert in breast surgery. He will examine you and discuss your options – whether is it bigger, smaller, more uplifted, or just better! Come see us at CARE and find out what is possible.

Before and After

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that I might need a breast implant exchange?

There are several signs that might indicate it is time for a breast implant exchange. If you notice changes in the shape or feel of your breast, it could be a sign of implant rupture or leakage. While saline implants typically deflate if ruptured, silicone gel implants may not show obvious signs. Another possible reason for implant exchange is severe capsular contracture. This is when the scar tissue surrounding the implant tightens and hardens, leading to firmness, distortion, or discomfort. Changes in aesthetic preferences may also prompt a desire to exchange implants for a different size, shape, or type. Additionally, naturally occurring changes such as aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and hormonal shifts can affect the position and shape of your breasts, potentially leading to dissatisfaction with the current implants. Implant displacement, where the implants shift from their original position, can impact symmetry and overall appearance. Although rare, infections or other complications might also necessitate an exchange. If you experience any of these issues or have concerns about your implants, it is imperative to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who will assess and recommend the best course of action.

How does the breast implant exchange procedure differ from the original augmentation surgery?

Breast implant exchange differs from primary augmentation in several ways. While the original augmentation procedure primarily focuses on enhancing breast size, an exchange procedure is performed to replace existing implants for various reasons, such as rupture, capsular contracture, or changes in aesthetic desires. During an exchange, the surgeon may use the same incision sites as the initial surgery, potentially minimizing additional scarring. The condition of the existing implants and surrounding tissue will also need to be examined and potentially addressed. If there is severe capsular contracture, the procedure can become more complex with the involvement of removing the scar tissue formed around the original implants. This step is not part of an initial augmentation. Additionally, the choice of new implants may vary based on updated patient preferences or medical needs, which can impact the procedure and recovery. Overall recovery from an implant exchange is quite similar to a primary augmentation. Many patients find the recovery from an exchange to be easier since the skin/tissues have already stretched to accommodate a size increase, and they are familiar with recovery expectations. In more complex exchange cases, there may be some minor differences in early recovery. Overall, the exchange procedure requires a tailored approach to address both the condition of the old implants and the specific goals for the new ones.

What types of implants are available for an implant exchange?

For an implant exchange, patients can choose between saline and silicone implants. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. While they are often seen as more affordable, they are more prone to visible rippling and may feel less natural as compared to silicone implants. Because a saline implant deflates suddenly and unexpectedly due to a rupture, most patients do not want to deal with this again, opting for silicone implants. Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the natural feel and appearance of breast tissue. This type of implant is less likely to ripple and provides a more natural look and feel. They are often considered the gold standard when it comes to implants. Dr. Coan highly recommends silicone implants for their proven efficacy, longevity, and extensive supporting research. There is ample research supporting their safety and effectiveness, making them a preferred choice for many patients seeking a long-lasting and natural result.

How long is the recovery period after a breast implant exchange?

After a breast implant exchange, patients are advised to avoid any strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks to ensure proper healing and to prevent complications. Initial recovery includes managing swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which usually improves within the first few weeks. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a week or two, but it is crucial to follow Dr. Coan’s guidelines regarding physical activity. Adhering to these recommendations helps to support a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible outcome.

Can I change the size or shape of my implants during an exchange procedure?

Yes, you can change the size and shape of your implants during an exchange procedure. Nationwide, the most common reason for implant exchange is dissatisfaction with size. Dr. Coan provides a range of implant profiles and gel types, allowing for customization to achieve the desired look and feel. Whether you are looking for a different size or shape, the exchange procedure can accommodate these changes to enhance your overall outcome.

See More

Choose a title below to watch:

Breast Augmentation – When is the right time?
Patient Testimonial- Breast Revision
Different Types of Implants

Meet Dr. Coan

Award-winning, nationally renowned, double board-certified Plastic Surgeon and a member of the distinguished Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

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Additional Treatments to Consider

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Do I Need a Breast Implant Exchange?

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