Replacement of Implants after Breast Augmentation
Many women who have undergone breast augmentation wish to replace or remove the implants, because they are not satisfied with the shape and size of her breast or there is a need due to discomfort that has arisen, following capsular contracture. This is a reaction of the body tissue to the implant which may deform the shape of the breasts and may lead to rupture of the implant.
The age of silicone prostheses is another reason, as not all silicone prostheses are equally durable.
Another reason is that implants may develop rippling in their surface over time, which could be palpable or visible, especially in women with lack of breast tissue.
Finally, displacement of implants can lead to a change in the shape of the breasts.
In any case, where the treatment involves the removal or replacement of implants, a diagnostic test with ultrasound or/and magnetic resonance imaging of the breasts is necessary prior surgery, in order to check the integrity of the existing implants.
Dr. Tsekouras, having pioneered innovative techniques to repair the problem offering you the best possible result.
What to expect after surgery:
- During the first 24-48 hours post-operatively, it is not uncommon to feel some pain or discomfort.
- The use of a bra is necessary to stabilize the implants in place for several months after surgery.
- Forced activities are restricted for about 2 to 3 weeks postoperatively. After the third week you can return to your normal activities, avoiding strenuous exercise in the gym.
- After healing, the incision scars usually become inconspicuous.
Risks and Side Effects
In less than 3%, a capsular contracture can re-form around the implant, leading to breast hardening and a change in shape. The capsule should then again be surgically removed and the implant repositioned in a new location.
More rarely, the body may reject the implant, which can be seen in the first weeks after surgery. Then the implants should be removed for a few months and to be replaced after.
After significant weight loss or pregnancy, due to changes in the body, the implants may no longer fit the breasts, so they should be replaced with new ones.
Finally, gravity can change the image of the breasts and a significant breast ptosis can be observed with the progression of time. For this reason, the patient must follow the doctor's instructions and to wear a special bra-base for the first six months at least, so that the body will have the opportunity to develop an internal bra-envelop and thus holding the implants in place.
It is also not advised to wear bra with underwires because it attenuates a ligature in the inframammary fold of the breast that holds the breast in place with result to atrophy and breast ptosis.
Useful Information
- With new implant technology, the complication rates of capsule formation have drooped even further . The results are more natural and the breasts are stable.
- Breast replacement of implants procedure can be performed even during the summer months.
- Women with implants are able to have screening mammograms, but it is important that they consult their doctor in advance.
