Breast implants are not designed to last forever, and many patients choose to have them replaced at some point — whether due to age, changes in preferences, or medical reasons such as capsular contracture. This article explains when implant replacement is recommended, what the procedure involves, and what to expect from recovery. If you are considering having your implants exchanged or removed, Blooming's surgeons can help you understand all available options.
News reports about complaints related to breast implants — such as leaking silicone, ruptured implants, and capsular contracture — appear regularly. In response to these reports, we receive many questions from patients about when breast implants need to be replaced. The answer varies from patient to patient, but here we set out the key facts.
Breast Implants Do Not Always Need to Be Replaced
Have you had a breast augmentation or breast reconstruction and are wondering whether your breast implants need to be replaced? Today's silicone breast implants are of high quality, but it is still good practice to have them checked regularly. Many women choose to have new implants placed after a number of years — often at their own request, for instance because they have complaints or are no longer satisfied with the appearance of their breasts.
When Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?
Reasons for replacing breast implants include, for example:
- Leaking breast implants: This mainly occurs with implants placed before or during the 1990s.
- Excessive capsular contracture: Some degree of capsular contracture always occurs around a breast implant, but in cases of excessive contracture the breast feels hard, becomes deformed, and/or causes pain.
- Sagging breasts: Replacing the implants in combination with a breast lift restores beautiful breasts.
- Change in shape: The breasts change shape, for example differing in volume. With new implants, we can make your breasts equal in size again.
- Desire for a different size or shape: You wish to have larger or smaller implants placed. It is also possible to choose a different shape: anatomical (teardrop-shaped) instead of round, or vice versa.
Always Contact the Plastic Surgeon if You Have Complaints
If you have complaints arising from your breast implants — such as pain, an unusual shape, or a hard feeling in your breast — it is always advisable to make an appointment with the plastic surgeon. They will assess your complaints and the appearance of your breast, and advise you on any next steps.
Experience With Implant Replacement
Claire van Wiemooiwilzijn underwent an implant replacement at Blooming. She was treated by plastic surgeon Wouter van der Pot. Watch the video to hear about her experience of the procedure.
Treatment
In essence, the procedure is very similar to the original breast augmentation or reconstruction. Beforehand, you will have a consultation with the plastic surgeon to discuss your wishes and the treatment. On the day of the procedure, you must fast, as you will be under general anaesthesia. The operation takes approximately one to one and a half hours. When you wake up, you may experience some pain, for which you will receive pain relief.
Bear in mind that this is a surgical procedure and that you will need several weeks to recover from the operation. After the implant replacement, we generally keep you in the clinic overnight for observation, so we can monitor for any complications.
Differences From a Breast Augmentation or Reconstruction
When replacing breast implants, there is already a scar from the initial breast augmentation or reconstruction. Where possible, the surgeon makes the incision at the same location when replacing your implants, so that no new scar is created. The current implant is first removed through this incision, after which the new one is inserted.
B-lite Breast Implants
At Blooming Clinic, we work with B-lite breast implants. This brand is known for its lightweight implants: up to 30% lighter, meaning your breasts will sag less. Thanks to the high-quality silicone microspheres, they are highly suitable for use in breast augmentations, breast reconstructions, and implant replacements. Please be aware that B-lite breast implants carry a higher price.
Contact
Do you have complaints or are you no longer satisfied with your breast implants? Contact Blooming Clinic on 023 544 4974. We are happy to arrange an appointment with the plastic surgeon to discuss your wishes and the available options.
Why Choose Blooming Plastic Surgery?
- Experienced plastic surgeons: Our surgeons have many years of experience and expertise in performing implant replacements.
- Personal approach: We offer tailored treatment plans that match your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
- High-quality care: Your safety and satisfaction are our priority, and we provide comprehensive aftercare to ensure you are happy with the result.
Contact us for more information or to make an appointment for a consultation. Blooming Plastic Surgery is happy to help you achieve an appearance you are satisfied with.