Breast Implant Exchange in Atlanta

What is Breast Implant Revision (Exchange)?

Breast implant revision and breast implant exchange surgery are procedures that aim to improve on a previous breast augmentation that you underwent with either Dr. DiFrancesco or another plastic surgeon. There are many different reasons to consider these options. For example, many women simply want to change their implants for a new type, size, or shape. Others experience changes in their results over time because of factors like aging, weight gain or loss, and childbearing. Some women experience unsatisfactory results. However, others require a revisional procedure because of complications like capsular contraction or silicone implant ruptures. No matter the motivation, revisional breast surgery can refine and improve your breast augmentation results.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Revision?

The best candidates for these procedures are prior breast augmentation patients who would like to change or revise their results. The same candidacy factors as breast augmentation apply to a revisional procedure. Primarily, you should be in overall good health and able to undergo surgery. Dr. DiFrancesco can discuss the proper timeframe for a revisional procedure if your breast augmentation was recent, since you should be fully recovered and have achieved your results from the initial surgery. During a private consultation, Dr. DiFrancesco can discuss your best options for new or different implants if you wish to change them.

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Breast Implant Revision Techniques

Removal 

Before your breast implant removal, you will consult with Dr. DiFrancesco to discuss your reasons for removal and your desired outcome. If you are considering additional procedures, such as a breast lift, this will be reviewed as well. During the procedure, an incision is made following your previous incision pattern to minimize additional scarring, and the implants are carefully removed. If necessary, the surrounding tissue is adjusted to maintain a natural breast contour. Dr. DiFrancesco will ensure your results align with your aesthetic goals for a balanced and natural appearance.

Replacement

Before your breast implant exchange, you will discuss with Dr. DiFrancesco your preferences for your new implants. If you are opting for a different placement method, you will review this as well. During the procedure, an incision is created following your prior incision pattern so that the previous implants can be removed. Then, the new implants are placed according to your goals and surgical plan.

Preparing for Breast Implant Revision

Preparing for breast implant revision begins with a consultation with Dr. DiFrancesco to discuss your concerns, goals, and the best approach for your procedure. You may need to undergo imaging or medical evaluations to assess the condition of your current implants and breast tissue. In the weeks leading up to surgery, you will receive detailed pre-operative instructions, including guidelines on medications, smoking cessation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for optimal healing. Arranging for transportation and post-surgical support is essential to ensure a smooth recovery. Dr. DiFrancesco and her team will provide personalized guidance to help you feel confident and prepared for your revision surgery.

The Breast Implant Revision Procedure

The breast implant revision procedure is tailored to your specific needs and goals, whether addressing implant size, position, complications, or aesthetic concerns. Dr. DiFrancesco begins by making an incision along your previous incision site to minimize additional scarring. Depending on your surgical plan, the existing implants may be removed or replaced, and adjustments to the breast pocket or surrounding tissue may be made for improved shape and symmetry. If necessary, a breast lift can be performed simultaneously to enhance the overall contour. Dr. DiFrancesco carefully customizes each step to ensure natural-looking, balanced results that align with your aesthetic goals.

Recovering from Breast Implant Revision

You can expect a recovery period similar to your initial breast augmentation, and Dr. DiFrancesco will ensure you have instructions to follow. You will wear a surgical bra during this time and can usually return to normal activities within one week. Dr. DiFrancesco can use a long-acting nerve blocker so that you are comfortable and experience as little discomfort as possible for the first few days, and you will be prescribed medications to manage swelling. You should avoid putting pressure on your breasts or sleeping on your side so that your incisions can heal effectively. Overall, you can expect to return to your full activities within four to six weeks.

Final Results of Breast Implant Revision

The final results of your breast implant revision will gradually become more apparent as swelling subsides and your breasts settle into their new shape. While initial improvements can be seen soon after surgery, full healing may take several months as your tissues adjust and any residual swelling resolves.

Before and After Photos

Explore our before and after photos to see real patient results from breast implant revision procedures.  Viewing these transformations can help you visualize your own results and gain confidence in your procedure.

Before & After Photos

Take a look at the results Dr. DiFrancesco can achieve!

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What to Expect During a Breast Implant Revision Consultation

During your breast implant revision consultation, Dr. DiFrancesco will discuss your concerns, goals, and medical history to determine the best approach for your procedure. She will assess your current implants, breast tissue, and overall anatomy to recommend the most effective surgical plan. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, explore implant options, and discuss additional procedures like a breast lift if needed.

What is the Cost of Breast Implant Revision?

Breast implant revision cost varies, depending on the extent of the surgical procedure, including the need for implant replacement or additional breast surgeries. Pricing will be discussed in detail at your initial consultation and we recommend financing options through Alphaeon Credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you feel a ruptured breast implant?

Depending on the type of implant, you may notice that your breast implant feels different, or the size and shape are dissimilar to before. With new ultrasound technology, Dr. DiFrancesco can examine your implants during your consultation and confirm possibility of rupture. Next, you can schedule a strategic explant procedure or replacement, depending on what type of implants you have.

How do you fix capsular contracture?

Capsular contracture exists when scar tissue forms around the implant and creates firmness that causes discomfort in the breast. To relieve the pressure around the implant, the capsule and implant are removed from the breast and new implants are inserted.

How often should breast implants be replaced?

Breast implants are designed to maintain their aesthetic form long-term and don't need to be replaced due to age. Patients are encouraged to maintain their health and observe any changes their breasts undergo through aging. If they experience changes in their breast size or laxity, or experience discomfort, they are advised to visit their plastic surgeon to discuss an implant exchange.

When should I consider breast revision surgery?

The number one reason for breast revision is to increase the size of your implants. Other reasons include implant rupture or leak, capsular contracture or scar tissue around the implant and implants which have shifted in position. Loose skin or stretched skin after pregnancy or massive weight loss may distort your breast shape and require breast revision surgery.

How long will my results last?

Breast implant surgery usually has long-lasting results. However, significant weight gain or loss, pregnancy and gravity may affect the length of your results.

Can I exchange my breast implants?

Patients with breast implants continually undergo physical changes related to weight fluctuation and aging. They reflect years after surgery that they desire a new size based on their current appearance. When visiting your plastic surgeon, you'll explore size options as well as consider a lift to accompany your implant exchange. Depending on when your initial implants were inserted, you may also change the type and profile to best accommodate your desired results.

How much does breast implant exchange cost?

Breast implant exchange cost varies, depending on the extent of the surgical procedure, including the need for implant replacement or additional breast surgeries. Pricing will be discussed in detail at your initial consultation and we recommend financing options through Alphaeon Credit.

Schedule a Consultation

It can be discouraging to complete your breast augmentation only to find you don’t like the results or experienced complications. The best way to revise your results and achieve your goals is with the help of a double board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in achieving excellent breast surgery results. To get started, contact our Atlanta office by calling or filling out our online form. Dr. DiFrancesco can begin planning your customized implant exchange or breast revision during a private consultation.