Breast implant exchange, which involves the removal of a woman’s present implants and replacing them with new ones, is a commonly performed procedure. This type of breast revision surgery is done for many reasons including:
1) size change – going bigger or rarely, smaller
2) replacing old implants with a new and similar ones
3) breast implant rupture
4) switching the implant type from saline to silicone (going from silicone to saline is very rare)
5) capsular contracture
6) shape/configuration alterations such as going to a higher profile implant (more projection)
7) development of infection (exceedingly rare)
This type of breast revision is usually associated with little or no significant discomfort. Compared to their initial breast implant placement for breast augmentation, this is generally a far easier and more pleasant experience.
The following patient of mine is a typical example of breast implant exchange surgery. She originally underwent breast augmentation surgery 6 years ago, at age 18, with the placement of moderate profile, smooth surfaced saline breast implants base size 240cc that were filled to 240cc on the left and 265cc on the right (Fig A, C and E). These were placed in a submuscular pocket employing an inframammary incision. This translated into a “C” cup bra for her which was exactly what she had wanted. She was very happy with the results.
A) 7 years after breast enlargement with saline implants in submuscular pocket
B) After implant exchange using smooth surfaced silicone implants
C) Before implant exchange – side view
D) After implant exchange – side view
E) Before implant exchange – oblique view
F) After implant exchange – oblique view
Several years later now, she decided that she would like to be somewhat larger and more projecting as well as switch to silicone breast implants. In this intervening period of time, she had experienced absolutely no problems with her breast implants.
This patient the underwent bilateral breast implant exchange with the insertion of ultra-high profile smooth surfaced silicone breast implants, sizes 360cc on the left and 400cc on the right (Fig B, D and F). Virtually no discomfort was experienced postoperatively and she returned to work within a few days. She was very thrilled with the outcome as this was exactly what she had wanted.
If you would like more information on breast revision surgery, breast augmentation, breast implants or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform, you can call my office at 480-451-3000. At that time, we would also be happy to schedule you for a complimentary consultation with me.
Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona