2024 Breast Implant Revision Guide - Signs for Breast Implant Replacement

Breast implants are a popular cosmetic enhancement, but they are not designed to last a lifetime. Even with the most advanced implant technology, there may come a time when you need to consider removing or replacing your breast implants. Below are the various scenarios and signs that indicate it might be time to undergo breast implant removal or replacement surgery.

Implant Rupture or Leak

One of the most obvious reasons to remove or replace your breast implants is if they rupture or leak. Saline implants will visibly deflate within hours or days of a rupture, as the sterile saltwater solution is absorbed by the body. Silicone implants, however, may have a silent rupture that is harder to detect. If a rupture or leak is detected, implant removal is necessary.

Signs of a Ruptured Saline Implant

Saline implant ruptures are typically easy to detect, as the signs are more immediate and visible compared to silicone implants. Look out for:

1. Deflation: As the saline solution leaks out, the affected breast will lose volume and appear deflated within hours or days.

2. Change in shape: The breast may appear smaller, lopsided, or asymmetrical compared to the other breast.

3. Tenderness: The ruptured implant shell may rub against the breast tissue, causing irritation and tenderness.

Signs of a Ruptured Silicone Implant

Silicone implant ruptures are often referred to as "silent ruptures" because the signs may not be immediately apparent. The thick, cohesive gel tends to maintain its shape, and leaks are usually gradual. However, there are some warning signs to be aware of:

1. Pain or tenderness: Leaked silicone can cause inflammation in the surrounding tissue, leading to soreness or tenderness.

2. Subtle changes in shape: A ruptured silicone implant may result in a slight decrease in volume or an unevenly shaped breast.

3. Lumps: Leaked silicone may form small clumps under the skin, appearing as lumps in or near the breast. These clumps can migrate to other areas and will need to be removed, as the body cannot absorb silicone.

4. Changes in breast firmness: A ruptured implant may cause the breast to feel unusually soft as the implant loses volume or firm as scar tissue forms around the leaked silicone.

If you experience fever and illness along with the above-mentioned symptoms, it may indicate an infection. Contact your surgeon or primary physician immediately for proper treatment.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a common complication of breast augmentation, affecting nearly one in six women. When the scar tissue around the new implant hardens and contracts, it can cause pain, firmness, and visible distortion of the breast. The formation of scar tissue around the implant can lead to constriction and eventual rupture of the implant. In severe cases, the only treatment option is breast implant removal. Factors that may contribute to capsular contracture include implant type, placement, and individual healing characteristics.

Signs of Capsular Contracture

The signs and symptoms of capsular contracture often develop gradually over time, making it difficult to identify the complication early if you aren't sure what you are looking for. Early signs of capsular contracture may include a firm or tight sensation, pain, or asymmetry. As the condition worsens, you may notice more obvious symptoms, including:

1. Breast pain: As the scar tissue tightens around the implant, it can cause pain, soreness, or tenderness in the breast, especially when touched or pressed.

2. Firmness or tightness: The affected breast may feel unusually firm, hard, or tight to the touch compared to the other breast or the original implant feel.

3. Asymmetry: The affected breast may sit higher or look different in size compared to the other breast, resulting in asymmetry.

4. Distortion of breast shape: Capsular contracture can cause the breast to appear misshapen, round, ball-shaped, or "high-riding" as the scar tissue squeezes the implant.

5. Visible rippling: In some cases, the hardened scar tissue may cause visible rippling or wrinkling of the skin over the implant.

6. Progressive worsening: Capsular contracture can develop gradually, with symptoms becoming more noticeable and severe over time.

Capsular contracture is graded using the Baker scale, which ranges from Grade I (the breast is soft and appears natural) to Grade IV (the breast is hard, painful, and visibly distorted). Grades III and IV often require surgical intervention to remove the hardened scar tissue and undergo breast implant replacement surgery.

Desire to Change Implant Size or Type

Over time, your aesthetic preferences may change, and you may wish to increase or decrease the size of your breast implants. Additionally, newer implant types, such as highly cohesive silicone gel implants (aka gummy bear implants), may offer a more natural look and feel, or more projection compared to older implant types. If you're unsatisfied with your current implant size or type, removal and replacement can help you achieve your desired outcome.

Breast Implant Displacement 

Although rare, implant displacement can occur when the breast pocket is too large or the implant shifts from its original position. Lateral displacement causes the implants to move towards the armpits, while symmastia results in a "uniboob" appearance as the implants move towards the center of the chest. Both conditions may require breast implant removal and pocket revision to restore a natural breast appearance.

Aging and Sagging

As with natural breasts, age, gravity, and changes in skin elasticity can cause the breasts to sag over time, even with implants. If you're experiencing significant sagging, combining breast implant replacement with a breast lift can help restore a more youthful, perky breast appearance. A breast lift is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue to achieve a lifted, rejuvenated look.

Breast Implant Removal 

Some women may decide to remove their breast implants permanently and return to their natural previous breast size. The reasons for this decision are highly personal and may include lifestyle changes, health concerns, or a shift in aesthetic preferences. Breast implant removal, or explantation, can be performed to remove the implants and restore the natural breast contours.

Best Breast Implant Replacement in Las Vegas

Dr. Troell, a renowned Las Vegas plastic surgeon, is at the forefront of breast implant exchange surgery, providing patients with state-of-the-art solutions for a rejuvenated and enhanced breast appearance.

With his extensive experience, spanning over 20 years, and multiple board certifications, Dr. Troell seamlessly blends his technical proficiency with a keen artistic vision to create personalized, natural-looking results.

To learn more about how Dr. Troell's expertise in breast implant revision surgery can help you achieve your desired look, reach out to our office and schedule a consultation today.