When and why to undergo the procedure, what should be considered?
It is difficult to answer how long breast implants “last” in a general sense. A common rule of thumb is that implants should be replaced after about 15 to 20 years after breast augmentation, but on the other hand, a change of breast implants is not necessarily required if there are simply no complaints or if patients are completely happy with their implants.
Learn on the following pages under what circumstances a change must be made, how the change takes place, what risks are involved and what costs you can expect for a breast implant exchange.
The most common reasons for changing a breast implant are due to complications, discomfort, and pain that patients experience.
These can be caused by:
In these cases, changing a breast implant may be beneficial or even necessary. However, in some of the above complications, good results can also be achieved by repositioning the breast implant, for example from on top of the muscle (subglandular) to under the muscle (submuscular), and/or by strengthening the breast tissue and adjusting the implant pockets.
Other reasons that can lead to an implant change are for example due to aging or weight-related skin and breast tissue sagging. Existing implants no longer fill out the breasts or can no longer support sagging and drooping.
In these cases, new implants ensure that the overall appearance is harmonious again.
Lastly, some women simply want a different appearance after a few years – a fuller bust, more curves, more volume. In this case, a breast implant exchange is often the result.
Typically, changing a breast implant or both breast implants is comparable to the first insertion of the breast implants, with the only difference being that the already implanted implants must be removed before the change.
Minimally invasive surgical techniques that rely on minimal touch and small incisions usually result in a “gentle” breast implant change. This is also true because the surgeon will try to place the new implants in the positions of the existing implants if possible, which can avoid or minimize additional incisions and scars.
If a patient does not only want to change her breast implant, but also wants to say goodbye to silicone implants permanently, fat transplantation can be performed to build up breast volume.
Or, instead of changing the breast implants or in addition to that, a tightening of the skin on the breast can be performed.
Replacing breast implants is an operation under general anesthesia. Accordingly, postoperative pain will occur, but it is usually not stronger than after the first breast operation.
Similarly to other surgeries, there may be complications such as bleeding, swelling, and other typical post-operative issues. There may also be discomfort after the placement of new implants, such as capsular contracture, rippling, etc. However, high-quality implants, thorough preoperative evaluations, highest standards of hygiene, and minimally invasive surgical techniques significantly reduce these risks.
As far as possible, the surgeon will use existing access points, avoiding new cuts and visible scars. However, this is not possible in all cases, so new, smaller scars may remain.
As with the first insertion of breast implants, it is also recommended to take it easy physically during the first few weeks after the procedure, to wear a compression bra, and to avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and sudden movements.
This allows the surgical wounds to heal, scar tissue to form around the implants, and to stabilize their position.
What are the costs for exchanging breast implants? The cost of exchanging breast implants depends on various factors, such as the quality of the new breast implants and any additional procedures (tightening of the skin, padding of the skin with autologous fat, etc.). The question of costs for a breast implant exchange cannot be answered in a general way. However, I would be happy to discuss all the details regarding “costs of a breast implant exchange” with you personally and individually.
Regarding the cost coverage by public health insurance, this is only possible if the removal of the existing implant is medically necessary. However, the cost of inserting new breast implants is usually not covered by the health insurance.
As a recognized specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery with long-standing experience in breast augmentation, I offer personal, individual and discreet advice in my modern practice in Munich for plastic and aesthetic surgery.
During a personal appointment, I will advise you very individually. Make the most of your type. I am looking forward to seeing you!
Are you interested in breast surgery, breast augmentation, or a thread lift in Munich? At the practice of Dr. Christian Lenz, you will receive personalized and confidential consultation tailored to your individual wishes and needs. Schedule an appointment and discover how modern aesthetic surgery combines natural results with the highest precision and safety.
We deliberately take plenty of time for non-binding initial consultations, while still ensuring that you can get an appointment quickly.
We deliberately take ample time for non-binding initial consultations in order to fully understand your requirements.
Our impressive results are not based on magic, but on scientific precision.
All breast surgeries are performed in our state-of-the-art operating rooms – for maximum safety and quality.
