Breast augmentation can be a transformative procedure, but in some cases, women may choose to have their implants removed or exchanged due to complications, personal preferences, or lifestyle changes.
At Lux Plastic Surgery in Bedford, we offer breast implant removal and exchange procedures tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re dealing with complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or simply wish to update or change the look of your breasts. Under the expert care of Mr. Sandip Hindocha, we ensure that your treatment is personalised, safe, and designed to deliver the best aesthetic outcome possible.
What is Breast Implant Removal or Exchange?
Breast implant removal or exchange involves either removing existing breast implants or replacing them with new ones. These procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort.
Breast Implant Removal:
This is the procedure to remove existing breast implants without replacing them. This may be an option if you no longer wish to have implants or if your implants have caused health complications like rupture or capsular contracture.
Breast Implant Exchange:
This procedure involves removing the old implants and replacing them with new ones. You might choose to exchange your implants to adjust the size, shape, or type (such as saline or silicone) of the implants to suit your current body and aesthetic goals.
Service Details
Expected Surgery Time:
3 hours
Done Under
General Anaesthesia
Hospitalisation:
Day
Drains Required
N/A
Supporting Garment
Sports bra for 6 weeks post procedure
Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
While breast implants can provide long-lasting, beautiful results, complications can arise over time, leading to the need for implant removal or exchange. One of the most common issues is capsular contracture, which occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and tightens, leading to discomfort, pain, or changes in the appearance of the breast. In more severe cases, capsular contracture can cause the implant to become misshapen or hard.
Other potential implant-related issues include breast implant illness (BII), which may cause a range of symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or other systemic problems, and breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare type of cancer linked to textured implants.
However, not all reasons for implant removal are due to complications. Some women simply decide that they no longer wish to have implants, whether because they no longer desire the increased volume or because they prefer a more natural look.
What to Expect After Breast Implant Removal
If you decide to undergo breast implant removal, it’s important to consider how your breasts will look post-surgery. Without implants, your breasts may appear deflated or lose their youthful shape, depending on how long you’ve had the implants. To restore the appearance of your breasts and achieve a natural, youthful look, additional procedures may be required.
One option is breast uplift surgery (mastopexy), which lifts and reshapes the breasts, giving them a more youthful, firm, and natural appearance. For those who wish to restore some volume, fat transfer can be used in conjunction with breast implant removal and mastopexy. Fat transfer involves taking fat from other areas of your body—such as the abdomen or thighs—and transferring it to the breasts, providing a subtle and natural volume enhancement.
Together, these procedures can help rejuvenate your breasts, restoring a natural shape and volume, while also providing a more comfortable and personalised aesthetic. At Lux Plastic Surgery, we’ll work with you to carefully plan your surgery, ensuring the results meet your expectations.
Breast Implant Removal and Exchange Procedure
The process of breast implant removal or exchange typically involves general anaesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable throughout the procedure. The surgeon will carefully remove the implants, and if necessary, replace them with new implants or reshape the breast tissue. In cases where capsular contracture is present, the hardened capsule around the implant may also be removed to prevent further complications.
For those opting for breast uplift surgery or fat transfer during the implant removal process, these procedures can be done simultaneously. Breast uplift surgery involves removing excess skin and tightening the breast tissue to provide a firmer, lifted appearance. Fat transfer can then be used to restore natural volume in the breasts, giving them a more youthful and natural shape.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from breast implant removal and exchange is generally straightforward, though it’s important to follow the post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery process. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort, but these symptoms usually subside within a few weeks. You will be required to wear a sports bra or compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.
First Week After Surgery: Expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled during this period to monitor your healing.
2-3 Weeks After Surgery: By this point, most of the swelling and bruising should subside. You can resume light daily activities, but avoid any strenuous movement or lifting.
4-6 Weeks After Surgery: After 4-6 weeks, most patients can return to all normal activities, including exercise, though you should continue to avoid heavy lifting for a few more weeks.
Why Choose Lux Plastic Surgery for Your Breast Implant Removal?
At Lux Plastic Surgery in Bedford, breast implant removal and exchange is not just a procedure—it’s a chance for you to restore comfort, achieve a more natural look, and feel confident in your body again. Whether you’re experiencing complications such as capsular contracture or simply wish to adjust your breast implants, Mr. Sandip Hindocha and our team of experienced surgeons provide expert care tailored to your specific needs.
Using the latest techniques and personalised treatment plans, we ensure that you feel supported throughout the process, from the initial consultation to post-operative care. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable, safe, and transformative experience that leaves you feeling confident in your new look.