Breast implants don’t last forever. However, as surgical techniques and medical technology continue to advance, breast implants can be maintained and made to last for longer periods of time than in the past. And, with implant replacement surgeries, you can keep your implants in and looking great for the long term.
Still, you might not know what option you want to go with after you have decided to have your breast implants replaced. Here’s what you need to know about your options so you can make the best decision for yourself.
Why Do Breast Implants Need to be Replaced?
Breast implants have a shelf life. And, while many silicone implants can last for ten years or longer, this doesn’t mean that you can keep them in forever. Implants need to be replaced eventually, especially if you have a ruptured implant that is leaking or deflating.
In some cases, the scar tissue around your implants can even harden and form a capsular contracture. This could result in changes to the breast shape and even cause pain.
Breast Implant Exchange Before & After
Rest assured that your doctor will know whether you need to replace your implants or whether you can keep them in. So, consult with them if you think you need or want to replace your implants.
Breast Implant Replacement Options
Breast Implant Revision Surgery
Women are not always happy with the results of their breast implant surgery. You might decide that you want to change the size of your breasts with new implants. Or it might simply be time to change your implants and the look of your chest.
If this is your goal, you should consider breast implant revision. Revision surgery involves replacing old breast implants with new ones. Surgeons aim not only to replace the implants but also to improve your breast shape.
To give you the breasts you want, your surgeon will either increase or decrease the size of your breast implants. The pockets of your breasts might also be reshaped so your implants can be positioned in a way that helps you reach your aesthetic goals.
Breast Implant Exchange
Many breast implant surgeries conclude with extremely satisfactory results. Board-certified plastic surgeons know how to insert implants that will last for years and years. But, as we know, your breast implants will eventually need to be replaced.
Breast implant exchange is a simple yet effective surgery. Your doctor will take out your old implants and put in new ones.
This will replace the material in your chest area and give you a chance to decrease or increase the size of your implants. Breast implant exchange will also make your chest look slightly perkier.
Most women can keep their implants in for ten years or even longer. In fact, the majority of women have their implants in for over a decade.
Still, there are circumstances where your implant might rupture or otherwise experience complications. If this is the case, you need to contact a plastic surgeon right away. Breast implant leakage can be serious if not corrected quickly.
Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is another popular option you might decide to go with. Breast implants can enhance the shape and size of your chest. However, not everyone wants to replace their implants after they have expired.
Some women might even want to remove their breast implants entirely. This way they don’t have to deal with future surgeries or complications from their implants.
If you want to have your implants removed, going with this option can help decrease the size and strain associated with larger breasts. Implant removal can also help if you are experiencing serious complications with your implants.
Breast Lift Combined With Breast Implant Removal or Exchange
Finally, breast implant removal or exchange can be supplemented with a breast lift. Each woman is different, and their chest might react differently to having an implant removed or replaced. Over time, the breasts begin to sag and may need to be lifted during an implant exchange or removal.
If you are not happy with the way your chest looks after implant removal, you might want to have a breast lift done. Your doctor will have a consultation with you to discuss your options.
Many women are happy with how their breasts look after implant removal, but if you want to ensure that your breasts stay perky and upright, a breast lift can be performed.
Breast Implant Exchange Before & After
Contact Dr. Vitenas Today
If you are interested in having your breast implants replaced or you simply want to remove them, contact Dr. Paul Vitenas today. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has over thirty years of experience in the field of plastic surgery.
Dr. Vitenas can give you the results you want and will provide you with the best options for breast implant replacement. Whether you need revisions performed on your implants, need new implants, or want to take out your implants, he can discuss your choices with you and provide a personalized recommendation. Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery in Houston, TX, can be reached at 281-484-0088. You can also fill out our patient form here.
