Implant removal and replacement

Implant Removal and Replacement at Pinehill Hospital

What is Implant removal and replacement?

Some people choose to have their breast implants removed altogether whilst others choose to have their implants replaced and may combine it with further surgery such as a breast uplift (mastopexy).

There are several reasons why you may choose to have your breast implants removed and then potentially replaced (also known as exchange of implants). Some of the more common reasons are addressed below:

When a breast implant is inserted, the body’s natural reaction can be to form a capsule round the implant. This capsule will be soft and pliable round the implant and in the majority of cases, not cause any problems. However, in a small number of cases, the capsule can harden and cause some pain and discomfort (also known as capsular contracture). During surgery, both the capsule and the implant are removed and a replacement implant inserted if the patient so wishes.

If a breast implant tears or develops a hole, it is known to have ‘ruptured’. Ruptured breast implants can cause the shape of the breast to change or can sometimes cause pain and discomfort. If you suspect you have a ruptured implant, it is advisable to book in to see a consultant so that they can refer you for an ultrasound. Following your ultrasound, the consultant will advise you as to the next steps. If the implant has ruptured, you will need to have it removed as soon as possible.

Some people may decide that their implants are too large or too small and would like to exchange them. Others feel they would like their implants permanently removed. Permanent removal may require additional surgery such as a mastopexy to achieve a good aesthetic result.

As with any cosmetic surgery procedure, your surgeon will talk you through your desired outcome and ensure that you have realistic expectations of what is achievable.

As with any breast surgery carried out at The Westbourne Centre, the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation meaning there is no overnight stay. During the procedure, patients are given a local anaesthetic with intravenous sedation and painkillers. Patients are not unconscious; they breathe for themselves meaning that patients are able to go home the same day to recover in the comfort of their own home.

We have a range of payment plan options for those who wish to spread the cost of removing their implants or exchanging their implants. (Subject to status. Terms and conditions apply).

Please visit payment plans where you will also find our finance calculator.

Pinehill Hospital Specialists

Mr Foiz Ahmed

Mr Foiz Ahmed is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Pinehill Hospital with a special interest in Breast reconstruction
Read more
Mr Miles Dickson

Mr Miles Dickson is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon in Hertfordshire
Read more
Mr Stephanos Papanastasiou

Mr Stephanos Papanastasiou is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Pinehill Hospital in Hitchin, Hertfordshire
Read more
Mr Hyder Ridha

Mr Hyder Ridha is a Consultant Cosmetic Surgeon in Hertfordshire
Read more
Mr George Saleh

Mr George Saleh is a Consultant Ophthalmic and Oculoplastic Surgeon, specialising in cataract, oculoplastic and aesthetic surgery.
Read more

Related Treatments

Breast Reduction

A breast reduction, often known as a boob job or boob reduction, is a cosmetic operation to make your breasts smaller, lighter and sometimes to improve their shape.

Find out more

Liposuction

Liposuction (also known as suction assisted fat removal SAL or lipoplasty) - how it works, what's involved, procedure, approach - Ramsay Health Care UK

Find out more

Anti Wrinkle Injections

Wrinkles are part of the ageing process and can be attributed to sun damage, effects of gravity and muscle contraction resulting from facial expressions such as frowning and laughing. Wrinkles due to the effects of gravity represent natural sagging of tissue with age and are generally only improved by surgical tightening procedures. Wrinkles caused by muscle contraction such as frown lines, forehead lines and crows’ feet can be improved by anti-wrinkle injections.

Find out more

Latest from Pinehill Hospital

Pinehill's Private GP Service

The private general practice at Pinehill Hospital excels due to its cutting-edge facilities, expert and compassionate healthcare professionals, comprehensive and personalised care approach, and unwavering commitment to patient convenience and comfort.

Find out more

Pinehill Hospital features in Hertfordshire’s local news

Ramsay’s Pinehill Hospital has been mentioned in Hertfordshire’s local news, The Comet, for delivering high quality private hospital treatment.

Find out more

The Rise of Private General Practice

Private general practice has been available for many years but only over the last 10 years has there been a significant demand for it. It has been made more affordable and accessible to those who wish to choose this service.

Find out more

Specialties

Treatments

Tests & Scans

Your Care

Clinical Information

Funding Treatment