Breast implants, like any medical device, do not last forever and tend to run into issues with time. The two most common long-term issues are capsular contracture, and rupture of implants.
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue surrounding the implant becomes thickened or calcified with time, which results in the breast feeling firmer, becoming fixed and less mobile, and on occasion becoming painful.
Rupture of implants sounds very dramatic, but in truth occurs when the outer silicone shell cracks which can allow some of the inner silicone gel to escape. The silicone gel is inert and harmless but can get picked up by the nearby lymph nodes.
Implant manufacturers do not give an expected lifespan of breast implants as it is highly variable, however anecdotally they tend to last 10-15 years before running into these longer-term issues. Some women wish to have their implants replaced prior to these issues occurring.
A breast implant revision, or exchange procedure, aims to remove the older implants which may or may not have malfunctioned, and place new implants in the existing cavity. It allows an opportunity to revise the shape or size of your breasts too, as your preference may have changed than when you first had the implants inserted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure times can vary depending on the integrity of the existing implants, the capsule, and intra-operatively findings. A simple implant removal without any need to address the capsule can take approximately 45 minutes. Implant revision work can take longer, especially if the existing implants have ruptured and/or capsular contracture exists. The latter can be addressed with via a capsulotomy to incise the capsule and release the tension, or with a partial or full capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue entirely. This adds significant length to the operating time and increases the risk of post-operative complications such as bleeding and fluid build-up (seroma) and so often a drain is left in overnight to remove any fluid. The procedure can either be performed as a day case surgery or include an overnight stay.
What is the typical post operative recovery following an implant removal or revision?
Recovery following implant removal or revision is typically quick and you can expect to be back to normal duties within a few days. Simple pain relief may be required but often isn’t, and this largely depends on if the capsule needs to be disrupted or removed as part of the procedure.
I would advise you to take at least one week off work following an implant removal or revision procedure and to avoid any strenuous physical exertion for 6 weeks. This includes gym classes and any upper limb-based exercise. Lower limb exercise such as walking and treadmill is encouraged after the first week.
You will be placed in a supportive post operative bra, and I ask that you wear this day and night for 8-12 weeks as it reduces swelling and allows the breast tissue to heal. It is not advised to drive for two weeks after an implant removal or revision procedure and to check with your insurer for any specific advice.
Do I need any imaging prior to surgery?
If over 40, an up-to-date mammogram within the last 12 months is advised to screen the underlying breast tissue for any issues that need resolving prior to embarking on breast uplift surgery. In addition, ultrasound assessment of the integrity of your implants is essential to know prior to surgery to allow for adequate planning. If any ambiguity exists as to the implants, then an MRI breast implant protocol may be recommended. In addition, if any fluid exists around the implant, then this will need to be sent for analysis to see if any abnormal cells exist. All of this will be carefully explained by Mr Kenny prior to surgery.
How much does breast implant removal/exchange cost?
The total price for the procedure includes the surgical fee, anaesthetic fee and hospital fee and start from £4,500 for breast implant removal. Please contact Mr Kenny and the team for further information and to get booked in for an initial consultation.
For implant exchange procedures costs start at £6,000 and vary depending on complexity and implants desired. An individual quote will be provided following an initial consultation with Mr Kenny.