As much as plastic surgeons try to inform and educate their patients during consultations about what implants of different sizes and shapes will feel or look like, some patients don’t fully realize that some implant sizes may be uncomfortable or look disproportionate to the rest of their features after being placed. Some patients may like the size of the implants they chose but feel their plastic surgeon has inserted them incorrectly. Other patients may be happy with the look of their implants but start to experience complications as time progresses.
Whatever the reason may be, if you are unhappy with your breast implants, you do have some options to be both completely satisfied and comfortable with your figure. For patients who want to enhance their breasts but aren’t satisfied with the size they initially chose, Dr. Amy Alderman offers a breast implant exchange. For patients who are experiencing complications from their breast implants or would rather go back to their natural size, Dr. Alderman can perform a breast implant removal. Continue reading to learn more about these procedures and how they can help you love your figure again.
What Are the Reasons For Considering Breast Implant Exchange?
There are a variety of reasons why someone might choose to undergo a breast implant exchange. In some cases, breast implant replacement may be a necessity. Some of the most common reasons for breast implant exchange that Dr. Alderman sees include:
Breast Implant Malfunction
Although breast implant complications are rare, they can occur and will likely require implant replacement. These complications include:
- Capsular Contracture
- Breast Implant Leak
- Breast Implant Rupture
- Implant Bottoming Out
- Displaced Breast Implant
- Rippling
Change in Implant Size
One of the most common scenarios leading to breast implant exchange is the patient’s desire for larger or smaller implants. Whether they are experiencing changes in their lifestyle or are simply dissatisfied with the initial size of the implants, a replacement procedure can help patients who feel their breast implants look too small or too big for their figure.
Change in Implant Type
Some women may desire to replace their implants with a different type. For instance, some patients will go from saline to silicone implants, or vice-versa, often due to concerns about the look or feel of their implants.
How Does Breast Implant Exchange Work?
Oftentimes, during a breast implant exchange, Dr. Alderman can use the same incisions used during the original breast augmentation so there will be no additional scarring. Together, you and Dr. Alderman will decide on the right size and type of implants for your aesthetic goals. On the day of your surgery, Dr. Alderman will create incisions to access and remove the old implants and replace them with the new ones.
What Can You Expect During Breast Implant Removal Surgery?
On some occasions, women experience a change in personal preferences and decide to have their implants removed altogether. In rare cases, women may experience implant-related pain or illness that will prompt the immediate removal of their implants. Regardless of your reasons for considering breast implant removal, Dr. Alderman will discuss your goals, answer all of your questions, and help create a customized surgical plan that meets your specific needs.
Removal of breast implants is a simple procedure. A small incision is made in the natural fold of the breasts, which allows Dr. Alderman to access the implants and the capsule surrounding them. This capsule is a type of scar tissue that your body creates around the implants. The capsule won’t need to be removed if it is thin, but in cases where the capsule has become thick, both the capsule and the implant will need to be removed.
Once both the capsule and implants are removed, the incisions are closed, drains may be placed, and you’ll be taken to a separate room where you’ll wake up from anesthesia and begin your recovery.
Are You A Candidate for Breast Implant Exchange or Removal?
In general, if you are unhappy with the appearance or feeling of your breasts for any reason, you are likely a candidate for breast implant revision or removal. Characteristics of a good candidate include:
- You desire a change in the size of your breasts
- You are experiencing discomfort or infection from capsular contracture
- Your implants have ruptured or migrated
- You want to exchange the type of your implants
- You are in good general health and can undergo the procedure without risks related to underlying health conditions
How Do You Choose Between Breast Implant Exchange and Removal?
When deciding between breast implant replacement or removal, it’s essential to consider several factors to help you make your decision.
If you love having breast implants and would rather avoid going back to your natural size, but you’re experiencing complications, a change in aesthetic preferences, have symptoms of implant aging, or your lifestyle has changed, a breast implant exchange may be the best choice for you.
For patients who are experiencing health concerns from their original implants or desire a more natural body image, a breast implant removal procedure will likely be the best choice for you.
What is the Recovery Process Like for Breast Implant Exchange or Removal?
Breast Implant Exchange Recovery
The recovery after your breast implant exchange will be similar to your breast augmentation recovery. Most women can return to work after a few days to a week, as long as their job isn’t physically strenuous. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise will need to be limited for three to four weeks after their procedure.
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
Patients experience minimal pain after their implant removal procedure and can resume most normal activities within three to five days. Exercise will need to remain limited for two to three weeks after surgery. Dr. Alderman recommends that her patients wear a compression bra after their implant removal procedure to provide support to the healing tissue and skin.
Some patients experience mild to moderate amounts of breast sagging after their breast implants have been removed. If this is a concern for you, discuss the possibility of undergoing a breast lift after your implant removal to return your breasts to a natural, youthful position.
How Do I Find the Right Surgeon?
When it comes to any cosmetic procedure, especially a revision or corrective surgery, choosing an experienced, skilled, and qualified plastic surgeon is essential. During your consultation, prepare questions about your potential surgeon’s experience and training. Review their before-and-after galleries and read previous patient’s testimonials to help you gain an understanding of what to expect.
Schedule Your Personalized Consultation For Breast Implant Removal or Exchange in Atlanta, GA
Deciding to have your breast implant exchanged or removed is a deeply personal decision. At The Spa at NAPS in Atlanta, GA, we are committed to guiding you through the decision process with professionalism, empathy, and expert care.
Whether you’re leaning towards a replacement for a fresh look or removal to return to your natural figure, we are here to support you through every step. We invite you to schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Alderman to explore your options in a safe and supportive environment. You can contact us online or by calling us at (470) 381-3610, and a member of our patient care team will happily assist you.