When considering Breast Implant Removal, Replacement, or Revision surgery many patients have questions about what the process involves and what to expect. This blog answers some frequently asked questions to provide clear and general information about these procedures.
It’s important to remember that the information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Individual recommendations and suitability for surgery can only be assessed during a consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon, like Dr Gary Kode.
Individuals that have had a Breast Augmentation with Implants know that they do not last forever. There are several reasons that implants may need to be replaced including;
There is no specific limit to the number of times breast implants can be replaced. As they are not permanent devices they will need to be removed or replaced eventually due to either implant rupture, capsular contracture or personal preference and lifestyle changes.
The estimated lifespan of implants is approximately 10 – 15 years, however, this is just an estimate. You should attend regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor their condition and determine if implant replacement is needed.
There are several factors that can affect implant longevity, including;
Yes, breast implants can be removed and replaced during the same surgical procedure. This is known as breast implant revision surgery or Implant Removal and Replacement. It may be a suitable option for patients who wish to update or change their implants.
During the procedure, the old implants (and sometimes the surrounding capsule of scar tissue) are removed and new implants are inserted. The replacement implants may differ in size, shape, or type of filling, depending on your goals and what is medically appropriate. These details will be discussed during your consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Yes, breast implants can be removed without replacement. This procedure is known as breast explant surgery. In some cases, it may be performed with additional procedures such as a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Fat Transfer to help address changes in breast shape and volume. The final outcome will depend on factors such as skin elasticity, the amount of breast tissue and the presence of any scar tissue (capsule) around the implant.
No, a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) is not necessarily part of Breast Implant Removal Surgery although it may be performed to address the present of excess skin that has stretched overtime due to the presence of breast implants.
The decision to undergo a Breast Lift depends on the individuals anatomy, skin and tissue quality and personal desires. This will be discussed during your consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Some people report a range of symptoms they attribute to their breast implants. This is often referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII). Symptoms may include fatigue, joint or muscle pain, “brain fog,” and skin or hair changes. While BII is not a technically recognised medical diagnosis research is ongoing to understand the link between implants and these symptoms.
Another condition to be aware of is Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which is a rare cancer of the immune system that has been linked to textured breast implants.
If you have concerns about your implants or are experiencing unexplained symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your plastic surgeon.
Breast implants do not technically have an expiry date, however, they do not last a lifetime. Implants may deteriorate or develop complications over time that require revision surgery. On average, implants may last approximately 10 to 15 years, though this is only an estimate. Some people may need revision sooner, while others are able to keep their implants for longer without issues. Regular follow-up with your surgeon is important to monitor implant condition.
Breast Implant Removal and Replacement surgery can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on the complexities of the procedure, the technique used, whether just the implant or the surrounding capsule are being removed and if other procedures are being performed at the same time.
If you opt to have your breast implants removed (explant surgery) and not replaced, the appearance and feel of your breasts will change.
The size of the implants, how long they were in place, your skin elasticity, the amount of breast tissue and scar tissue (capsule) that has formed will all impact the appearance of your breast after implant removal.
Some people may find that their breasts appear flatter, emptier, or sit lower on the chest after implant removal. Additional procedures such as a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Fat Transfer may be discussed to help support the shape of the breast following removal.
It’s important to talk with your surgeon during consultation about your specific circumstances and what changes you may expect after implant removal.
Yes, you can change the size of your implants for either larger or smaller implants during implant removal and replacement surgery/Implant revision.
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your goals, examine your breast tissue, skin elasticity and chest anatomy to determine the appropriate implant size and type for your desired outcome.
Several things can happen when you remove breast implants;
Your surgeon will discuss what changes to expect based on your individual anatomy, the size of your previous implants and any additional procedures you may have at the time of implant removal.
The “pocket” refers to the space where the implant sits. After implant removal, this pocket may gradually shrink and change shape. This depends on factors such as the size of the implant, how long it was in place, the condition of your skin and the amount of breast tissue you have.
In some circumstances, the pocket may remain stretched or irregular. To address this, your surgeon may tighten or adjust the pocket during surgery, particularly if new implants are being placed.
If implants are not being replaced, procedures like a Breast Lift may be considered to help support the breast tissue and manage changes in breast shape.
All surgical procedures carry risks, and breast implant revision surgery is no exception. Risks include:
Your individual risk profile will depend on factors such as your health, surgical history, type of implants and whether the surgery involves removal, replacement, or both. For more information please visit our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery Page.
The recovery period after Breast Implant Removal and Replacement varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing. The following is what patients can generally expect during the recovery period:
Your surgeon will provide tailored guidance on activity restrictions, support garments and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Drains are not always used after Breast Implant Removal and Replacement surgery. Whether your surgeon uses them or not depends on factors such as the surgical technique, the size of the implant pocket and the amount of fluid expected to accumulate.
If drains are used, they are typically temporary and removed after a few days. If no drains are placed, your surgeon may recommend wearing a support garment to help manage swelling and support healing.
Your surgeon will determine the need for drains during your procedure and provide instructions on care if they are used.
It is generally recommended to sleep on your back for at least 2–4 weeks. Sleeping on your back can help reduce pressure on the breasts, support healing and help maintain the shape of the breast tissue and implant pocket.
Some patients may need to extend this period, depending on their surgeon’s advice and their individual healing progress. Using extra pillows to elevate the upper body slightly can also help reduce swelling and discomfort during the early recovery.
Individuals can usually shower after drains (if used) have been removed. This typically occurs within a few days depending on your surgeon’s instructions. Patients should make sure that only warm water is used and they should avoid scrubbing near or around the incision sites and pat the area dry afterward.
If your surgeon has applied a Hypafix or other adhesive dressing, follow their instructions on when and how to remove it or keep it protected during showering.
Always follow the specific guidance provided by your surgeon, as timing may vary depending on the type of surgery, individual healing and whether drains were used.
There are several things patients are advised to avoid after surgery to support healing and reduce the risk of complications, including:
Always follow the personalised instructions provided by your plastic surgeon. Recommendations may vary depending on the specifics of the procedure.
The time it takes for skin to retract after breast implant removal varies significantly depending on;
Most patients notice changes in the breast shape within the first few weeks after surgery as swelling subsides. The skin gradually tightens over several months although residual laxity may remain. It can take up to a year or more for the breasts and surrounding skin to settle into their final position and appearance.
In cases where significant skin laxity remains, a Breast Lift may be recommended. Individual results vary. A plastic surgeon can provide a more personalised estimate based on your anatomy and surgical plan.
The appearance of breasts after implant removal can vary significantly and depends on several factors. One of the key considerations to consider is the proportion of breast tissue compared to the size of the implants. Patients with smaller implants and more breast tissue may notice only slight changes to breast shape and volume. Whereas, those with larger implants and less breast tissue are more likely to experience significant change in breast shape and volume.
In most cases, breasts appear smaller, flatter, and less full once implants are removed. Excess skin may also be present, particularly if the implants were large or had been in place for many years, which may have stretched the skin. Asymmetry, which can sometimes be masked by implants, may also become more noticeable following removal.
In some cases, a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Fat Grafting can be performed at the same time as implant removal to address changes in shape and volume.
Individual outcomes vary and a consultation with a plastic surgeon like Dr Gary Kode can provide guidance on what to expect based on your anatomy and the size of implants being removed.
The cost of Breast Implant Revision surgery (Removal and Replacement surgery) in Australia varies based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the brand of implants used, the type of implant (size, filling, shape etc), whether it is being performed alongside other surgeries, the surgeon’s fees, the hospital fee and more.
The only way to determine the cost of surgery is to attend a consultation with a plastic surgeon, during which they will assess your situation and tailor a quote for your specific procedure.
In general Medicare rebates are not available when new implants are inserted, even if there was a previous medical complication. You may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for the removal of your implants if you meet specific criteria.
You can claim a Medicare rebate for implant removal if:
Private health insurance may provide some cover but this depends on the reason for surgery and your level of cover.
You will need to check your policy details to understand what is included, whether an MBS (Medicare Benefits Schedule) item number applies, and what out-of-pocket costs may remain.
Breast Implant Removal and Replacement surgery is a personal decision that comes with many considerations. While these FAQs provide general information, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Every patient’s situation is unique. In order to understand your options, risks, and expected outcomes you will need to attend a consultation with a qualified specialist plastic surgeon like Dr Gary Kode.
If you are thinking about Breast Implant Revision (Breast Implant Removal and Replacement) Surgery, consider organising an appointment with your surgeon. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your goals and receive advice tailored specifically to your needs.