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
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Mr Miles Dickson

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

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

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

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

Breast Uplift

Breast uplift (mastopexy) is a cosmetic operation to remove excess skin from your breasts to improve their shape. The procedure is very similar to breast reduction surgery. However, in a breast lift procedure your breasts are reshaped by tightening the skin, without removing any breast tissue.

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Fat Transfer

Fat transfer involves removing fat from one part of the body using liposuction, and re-inserting it into another part of the body to add volume to that particular area.

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Septoplasty

A septoplasty and a submucous resection are operations to correct a deviated nasal septum.

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