Breast Implant Revision and Replacement in Bali
Medically reviewed by Dr Marco Aurélio Faria-Corrêa
Introduction
If you’re experiencing complications with existing breast implants or simply wish to update them, breast implant revision and replacement surgery may help address your concerns. This procedure involves removing existing implants and either replacing them with new ones or removing them entirely, depending on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re dealing with capsular contracture (scar tissue that tightens around the implant), implant rupture, or aesthetic concerns, revision surgery can be an option to consider. Our Plastic Surgeons have experience in revision procedures and can provide personalised treatment plans. Individual results and timelines may vary.
What is Breast Implant Revision and Replacement?
Breast implant revision and replacement is a surgical procedure that removes existing breast implants and addresses any complications or aesthetic concerns that have developed. This surgery may include replacing the implants with new ones of a different size, shape, or type, or removing them without replacement. The procedure often addresses issues such as capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening around the implant), implant rupture or leakage, implant malposition, or dissatisfaction with size or appearance.
The complexity of revision surgery varies significantly depending on the specific issues being addressed. Some revisions involve straightforward implant exchange, while others may require extensive reconstruction work, including capsule removal (capsulectomy), tissue rearrangement, or fat grafting. The procedure typically takes longer than initial breast augmentation due to the need to work with existing scar tissue and potentially compromised tissue planes. Revision surgery can help address various concerns when performed by plastic surgeons, though multiple procedures may occasionally be necessary to achieve desired outcomes.
Who is a Suitable Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Women experiencing complications from previous breast augmentation such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or rippling
- Patients with implant malposition, including bottoming out, lateral displacement, or symmastia
- Individuals seeking size change due to lifestyle changes, weight fluctuations, or personal preference
- Women with older implants requiring routine replacement
- Patients experiencing breast implant illness (BII) symptoms seeking explantation
- Those with asymmetry or results from previous surgery that may benefit from revision
- Women in good general health without conditions that impair healing
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery
- Patients with realistic expectations about revision outcomes
Contraindications
- Active infection anywhere in the body, particularly in the breast area
- Uncontrolled diabetes or other systemic diseases affecting healing
- Blood clotting disorders or use of certain anticoagulant medications
- Pregnancy or active breastfeeding
- Unrealistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Severe psychological conditions affecting decision-making
- Recent radiation therapy to the chest area
A thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon is essential to determine your suitability for revision surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your current implants, tissue quality, and overall health to develop a surgical plan tailored to your specific situation.
Treatment Techniques & Approaches
Implant Exchange
Implant exchange involves removing existing implants and replacing them with new ones. This approach may be suitable for updating implant size or type, or for addressing positioning issues. The surgeon may use existing incisions when possible, though new incisions may be necessary depending on the revision requirements. This technique can involve changing from saline to silicone implants, adjusting the implant profile, or updating to newer-generation implants.
Capsulectomy Procedures
Capsulectomy involves removing the scar tissue capsule that naturally forms around breast implants. A partial capsulectomy removes portions of the capsule, whilst a total capsulectomy removes the entire capsule. En bloc capsulectomy, where the implant and capsule are removed together as a single unit, may be recommended for ruptured silicone implants or capsular contracture. The extent of capsule removal depends on individual circumstances and surgical findings.
Pocket Modification
Pocket modification techniques adjust the implant position by altering the space where the implant sits. This may involve changing from subglandular to submuscular placement (or vice versa), creating internal sutures to reposition the inframammary fold, or using acellular dermal matrix to provide additional support. These modifications may address issues such as implant malposition, rippling, or inadequate tissue coverage.
Technology & Equipment Used
Revision surgery utilises various technologies. High-resolution ultrasound and MRI imaging help assess implant integrity and surrounding tissue pre-operatively. During surgery, surgical instruments designed for revision procedures allow for precise dissection. Some surgeons employ endoscopic techniques for visualisation in complex cases.
This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
Considering revision surgery?
Our Plastic Surgeon will evaluate your specific needs and discuss suitable treatment options.
The Treatment Process
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before revision surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examination and imaging studies to assess current implants and surrounding tissue. Blood tests help determine surgical readiness. Patients may need to discontinue certain medications, particularly blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, as advised by their healthcare professional. Smoking cessation is recommended prior to surgery to support healing. Patients should arrange for assistance during the initial recovery period. Comfortable, front-opening clothing and any prescribed medications should be prepared.
During the Procedure
On surgery day, patients receive general anaesthesia. The surgeon reopens previous incisions when possible or creates new ones if necessary. Existing implants are carefully removed, and any capsule work is performed in accordance with the surgical plan. If replacing implants, the pocket may be modified before inserting new implants. The surgeon checks positioning before closing incisions with layered sutures. Surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation. The procedure duration varies depending on complexity.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Following surgery, patients recover in a monitored setting until fully awake from anaesthesia. Pain medication is administered for comfort. A surgical support garment is worn to minimise swelling and support healing tissues. Initial recovery involves gentle arm movements as directed, though strenuous activity is restricted. Patients may return to their accommodation the same day, though complex revisions might require overnight observation. Detailed post-operative instructions are provided, including drain care if applicable, medication schedules, and warning signs to monitor.
Recovery & Aftercare
First 24-48 Hours
The initial recovery period requires rest with your upper body elevated to reduce swelling. Pain may be moderate and can be managed with prescribed medications. Some drainage from incisions is normal, and dressings may need to be changed as directed. Avoid lifting arms above shoulder height and any pushing or pulling movements. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation. Stay hydrated and maintain a nutritious diet to support healing. Monitor for signs of complications such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or fever.
First Week
During the first week, swelling and bruising may peak around day 3-4 before gradually improving. Continue wearing the compression garment continuously except when showering (if permitted). Surgical drains, if present, may be removed within several days as determined by your surgeon. Follow-up appointments assess healing progress and address any concerns. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may be introduced. Patients can perform light daily activities but should avoid lifting heavy objects. Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated to minimise swelling and protect surgical sites.
Long-term Recovery
Recovery from revision surgery varies based on procedure complexity and individual healing factors. Return-to-work timing depends on the nature of your occupation and your healing progress. Exercise restrictions are gradually lifted according to your surgeon’s guidance. Scars continue to mature and fade over time. Regular follow-up appointments monitor healing and implant positioning. Mammograms or ultrasounds may be scheduled to establish a new baseline imaging. Long-term care includes regular self-examination and routine monitoring, as recommended by your surgeon.
Our Plastic Surgeon provides comprehensive post-procedure support.
Schedule your consultation to learn more about what to expect.
Benefits of Breast Implant Revision and Replacement
Revision surgery may offer benefits for women experiencing implant-related issues. Addressing physical discomfort from complications such as capsular contracture can improve quality of life. Correcting implant malposition or asymmetry aims to restore breast contour and clothing fit. Updating implant size or type may help achieve proportions that suit your current lifestyle and preferences.
For those experiencing suspected breast implant illness, explantation might help alleviate systemic symptoms, though scientific evidence remains under investigation. Replacing older implants can provide reassurance regarding implant integrity and may help reduce rupture risk. The procedure also offers an opportunity to address age-related breast changes, combining revision with lift techniques if needed. The procedure can also incorporate modern techniques and implant technologies that were not available during the initial augmentation.
Risks & Potential Complications
Common Side Effects
Temporary effects following revision surgery may include swelling, bruising, and discomfort lasting several weeks. Altered nipple or breast sensation can occur in patients, though this may resolve within months. Tightness or pulling sensations can occur as tissues adjust to surgical changes. Some patients may experience temporary asymmetry due to differential swelling between breasts. Surgical scars are inevitable, though they may fade over time. Fatigue and emotional fluctuations during recovery can occur and may resolve as healing progresses.
Rare Complications
Less common but serious complications may include infection requiring antibiotic treatment or, in severe cases, implant removal. Haematoma (blood collection) or seroma (fluid collection) may necessitate drainage procedures. Poor wound healing or incision separation can occur in revision surgery due to compromised tissue quality. Recurrent capsular contracture remains possible despite preventive measures. Implant rupture during surgery may require immediate replacement. Anaesthesia-related complications are possible with any surgical procedure.
Risk minimisation involves selecting a plastic surgeon familiar with revision techniques, carefully following pre- and post-operative instructions, and maintaining realistic expectations about outcomes. Your surgeon will discuss specific risk factors based on your individual situation during consultation.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast implant revision and replacement varies based on several factors. Procedure complexity impacts pricing, with simple exchanges differing from extensive reconstructions that may require capsulectomy or tissue work. The type and characteristics of replacement implants affect overall cost. Anaesthesia fees, facility charges, and length of surgery all contribute to total expenses.
Additional costs to consider include pre-operative imaging, laboratory tests, post-operative garments, and medications. Travel expenses, accommodation during recovery, and potential companion costs should be factored into your budget. Some patients may require secondary procedures, which may entail additional future expenses. When considering treatment options, prioritising surgeon qualification and facility standards helps ensure safe outcomes. A detailed consultation with a qualified healthcare professional can provide personalised information based on your specific surgical requirements.
Conclusion
Breast implant revision and replacement surgery provides an option for women experiencing complications or seeking changes to their previous augmentation. With a range of surgical techniques available, from simple implant exchange to complex reconstruction, plastic surgeons can address diverse concerns while prioritising safety and aesthetic outcomes. Choosing Bali for your revision surgery may combine quality medical care with a supportive recovery environment. Outcomes depend on selecting qualified surgeons, maintaining realistic expectations, and following comprehensive aftercare protocols.
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If you're considering breast implant revision and replacement, our Plastic Surgeon can help you understand if it may be a suitable option for your needs. With experience in revision procedures, we provide personalised care throughout your journey.
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