Why Should You Consider a Breast Implant Exchange or Replacement?

You may consider a breast implant exchange when your implants no longer match your goals, their look or feel has changed, or a medical problem has developed.

Many patients discuss breast implant replacement or breast augmentation revision with their surgeon around ten years after their first breast augmentation, even though some implants last longer.

An implant exchange can refresh your results so your breasts better fit your body, lifestyle, and comfort level over time.

Breast implant exchange is a surgery where your plastic surgeon removes your current implants and places new ones, often to change size or type, improve shape, or correct issues such as rupture, rippling, or capsular contracture.

After your breast augmentation, most implants keep a great look for many years, often 10–25 years, but it’s normal to want updates or maintenance as time goes on.

Your surgeon may even explain early on that you could want your implants revised, exchanged, or removed at some point in the future.

If you’re considering breast augmentation, it’s essential to know that although implants can last up to 25 years, many people choose an implant exchange later to maintain the look and feel they want.

Pregnancy, weight changes, shifts in activity level, and natural aging can all affect your breasts over time and may lead you to consider an exchange.

Here are some common reasons women choose a breast implant exchange or replacement:

• A desire for a different size, such as going larger, smaller, or choosing lighter implants that feel better for your back or active lifestyle.

• Changes in your body after pregnancy, weight gain or loss, or aging that make your original implants look or feel different than they did at first.

• Visible changes in the implants, like rippling, wrinkling, or deflation that affect the shape or smoothness of your breasts.

• Discomfort, tightness, or hardness in the breast that may signal capsular contracture or another medical issue.

• Wanting newer implant technology or a different implant type (such as switching from saline to silicone or vice versa) for a look or feel you prefer.

When Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?

Breast implants should be evaluated for replacement when they change in appearance or feel, or when an exam or imaging shows a problem such as rupture or capsular contracture.

Breast implants are replaced based on symptoms and exam findings, not just the number of years you have had them.

What are the Signs that Breast Implants Need Replacing?

Most women need a breast implant exchange when they notice changes in breast shape, feel new pain or tightness, or see that one breast looks very different from the other.

These changes can happen slowly or suddenly and are often the first clues that an implant has shifted, hardened, or ruptured.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

The signs you need implant exchange are changes in breast size or shape, visible rippling, uneven or high-riding implants, new pain or burning, or breasts that feel much firmer or harder than before.

Here are the most common signs you may need a breast implant replacement:

• A desire for a different size because your breasts now feel too large, too small, or too heavy for your current lifestyle.

• Uneven, high-riding, or noticeably different breasts, which can mean an implant has shifted, rotated, or “dropped” out of position.

• Visible or palpable rippling or wrinkling over the implant area, especially when you lean forward or move in certain positions.

• Deflated or suddenly smaller breasts with saline implants, or more subtle shape changes, swelling, or tingling with silicone implants that may signal a silent rupture.

• Breasts that feel very hard, tight, or painful, which can be a sign of capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant).

• Capsular contracture is when the normal scar capsule around an implant becomes too thick and tight, squeezing the implant and changing its look and feel.

Is It Worth it to Have a Breast Implant Replacement?

For many people, a breast implant replacement is worth it because it can improve comfort, restore a smoother breast shape, and better match their current style and lifestyle.
If your implants are painful, look very different from what you want, or have a confirmed problem, an implant exchange can greatly improve your quality of life.

Whether breast implant replacement is “worth it” depends on your goals, your symptoms, and a clear discussion with a board-certified plastic surgeon about risks, benefits, and costs.

What Should I Avoid If I Think I Need an Implant Exchange?

Avoid ignoring new pain, swelling, or sudden changes in your breast shape, and avoid delaying an appointment with a qualified plastic surgeon if you see or feel something different.
Do not try to diagnose yourself based on photos online; instead, follow your surgeon’s advice and get any recommended imaging such as ultrasound or MRI.

If you suspect a problem with your implants, it is safest to avoid heavy chest workouts or trauma to the area until your surgeon has examined you.

Does Insurance Cover Implant Exchange Costs? 

In most cases, health insurance does not cover a breast implant exchange if your original surgery was done for cosmetic reasons, but there are some exceptions and warranty programs that may help with costs.

Insurance is more likely to help if your implants were placed for reconstruction after breast cancer or another medical condition and your surgeon documents a clear medical need for breast augmentation revision.

Insurance coverage for breast implant replacement is usually limited, so it is important to review your policy and talk with your surgeon’s office about what may or may not be covered.

Here are a few key points to know about paying for a breast implant exchange:

• Cosmetic implant exchanges are usually self-pay, while medically necessary revisions for reconstruction may qualify for some coverage.

• Implant manufacturers such as Allergan, Mentor, or Sientra often offer warranties that may provide free replacement implants if there is a rupture or certain complications.

• Some warranties may also help with surgeon fees, facility costs, or anesthesia, depending on the problem and the specific plan.

• Your eligibility for reimbursement may depend on why you need the exchange and how long you have had the implants.

How Much Does a Breast Implant Exchange Usually Cost?

The cost of a breast implant exchange can vary widely based on your surgeon’s experience, your geographic area, the type of implants you choose, and whether you combine it with another procedure such as a breast lift.
Because prices differ between practices, the most accurate way to understand your costs is to schedule a consultation and request an all-inclusive quote that lists every fee in detail.

The total price for breast implant replacement typically includes surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, operating room or facility fees, and the cost of the new implants themselves.

Common factors that affect breast implant exchange cost include:

• The surgeon’s training, board certification, and years of experience with breast surgery and revision cases.

• Whether you choose saline or silicone implants and any special implant style or brand.

• Operating room and anesthesia fees at the hospital or surgery center.

• Additional procedures done at the same time, such as a breast lift or capsular contracture release.

How Can You Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Deutsch in Atlanta?

If you think you may need a breast implant exchange, breast implant replacement, or breast augmentation revision, the next step is to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a one-on-one consultation.

During this visit, your surgeon will review your medical history, examine your breasts, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized plan to help you feel more confident and comfortable.

A consultation for breast implant exchange is simply an in-depth visit where you and your surgeon talk through your concerns, review your options, and decide together whether now is the right time for surgery.

For breast augmentation in Atlanta, Dr. Deutsch of Perimeter Plastic Surgery is a field leader. Double board-certified and now with 25 years of experience in plastic surgery, Dr. Deutsch is at the top of his profession.

 In addition to his skill and experience, empathy and being a good listener are also among Dr. Deutsch’s strengths. 

From consultation to post-procedure recovery, Dr. Deutsch will understand how vital your results are to you, and he will ask questions and provide answers to help you make the best decisions for you.

If you think you’re a candidate for breast augmentation or an implant exchange, schedule a consultation with Dr. Deutsch today! Call (404) 255-0886.