When to Exchange Your Breast Implants
Today’s breast implants are more natural looking and problem-free than ever before. Many women who opt for breast augmentation with implants will be fortunate enough to have “one and done” surgery—but not every patient. Some patients will need to—or want to—swap out their implants for new ones.
We meet with several women who have this very procedure in mind each year in New York. A breast implant exchange may be indicated for a few different reasons:
1) If There’s a Problem
Women may consider implant exchange to correct capsular contracture, an “excessive fibrotic reaction to a foreign body,” according to the Archives of Plastic Surgery. This condition in which scar tissue squeezes and distorts an implant is one of the leading reasons for reoperation. Cosmetic surgeons, professional societies and implant manufacturers are making great progress in reducing the incidence of capsular contracture, but it still does occur.
A number of other post-surgical problems prompt patients to consult us in New York about breast implant exchange, including rippling and displacement. Since we have more than three decades of successful breast augmentation to our credit, we can most often improve poor results caused by less experienced cosmetic surgeons.
2) To “Upgrade” to Silicone
Until ten years ago, saline implants were the only choice for most women in the U.S. The current availability of FDA approved, form-stable silicone implants prompts many women to exchange saline for silicone implants each year. This can happen following a saline implant rupture, or simply because a patient favors the natural feel of the cohesive silicone gel.
3) To Adjust the Size
Although we wholeheartedly support a patient’s choice when it comes to breast size, we also feel relieved that the days of beach ball sized breast implants are largely behind us. It’s simply better for the entire body when breasts are of appropriate size.
Women who chose extra large breast implants years ago may have regrets today. They may suffer neck and back pain, they may be experiencing unwanted sagging, or they may simply be tired of extra attention they attract in public.
We often guide our do-over patients in New York to breast implants that will harmonize better with their frame, and sometimes we combine smaller implants with a breast lift for a bit of rejuvenation. The physical and psychological relief is often well worth a second surgery.
If you have undergone a breast augmentation procedure and you’re considering an implant swap, you’re in good company. And, since you have already had breast surgery, you know that the procedure is relatively straightforward and poses a recovery period that’s quite manageable.
Why not come in for a consultation? We can talk over the options, then you’ll be the one to decide if a second breast surgery is a good choice for you. Call us today at 212-570-6080 or send us an email with your questions.
