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  1. What is Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision?
  2. Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision?
  3. Before + After
  4. Patient Reviews
  5. Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision Procedure
  6. Breast Implant Exchange Recovery
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. Silvia Kurtovic, MD & Raman Mahabir, MD
  9. Contact us today

What is Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision?

Breast implant exchange is a procedure that is performed when a patient is dissatisfied with the look of their initial breast implants. This dissatisfaction may be caused by a number of factors, including a changing body, different aesthetic interests, a desire to switch the type of breast implant, or a problem with their breast implants such as capsular contracture.

This procedure can also correct some aspects of your initial breast procedure that you did not like, including lifting breasts that have sagged over time, restoring fullness to the upper areas of the breasts, improving the look of implant rippling, correcting breast asymmetry, and more.

Beautifully You

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision?

Individuals with are unhappy with their original implants who wish to exchange their implants for a different size, have developed sagging breasts over time, are experiencing discomfort due to capsular contracture, or more may benefit from a breast implant exchange. The first step toward determining if this procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. During this appointment, you will be able to discuss your aesthetic goals, your reasons for wanting an implant exchange and ask any questions that you may have.

Before + After

Patient Results

The breasts are a fundamental component of feminine beauty and we offer a variety of procedures to lift, enhance, or reduce the breasts. Every procedure is customized to your individual needs. Our board-certified plastic surgeons are also skilled in gynecomastia surgery for men and reconstructive surgeries for patients of all genders.

BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY

Patient Reviews

Read All Patient Reviews
As a parent of a 17 year old who needed a breast reduction I was terrified of my daughter having the surgery. However, if she didn’t have the surgery she was destined to have back…
- LM
I had a wonderful experience with Tucson Plastic Surgery. The staff, doctors and nurses were amazing. I love Dr. Mahabir's natural approach and whole body care when I went through a breast reduction and lift.…
- ET
I revived a breast reduction from Dr. Kurtovic about 2 months ago! I am healing perfectly and am so happy with my results. The staff was incredibly kind and took such great care of me…
- NM

Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision Procedure

Your breast implant exchange procedure will be unique to your individual case. Because of this, the duration of your procedure may vary. In general, this procedure is performed under general anesthesia and may include totally removing the implants, changing out the breast implants for different implants, or replacing the implants and performing a breast lift at the same time. You can discuss your desired outcomes with Dr. Mahabir or Dr. Kurtovic during your consultation, during which your plastic surgeon will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan.

Recovery Process

Breast Implant Exchange Recovery

4-6 weeks

Recovery from Breast Implant Exchange/Implant Revision surgery is very similar to the initial breast augmentation procedure. However, if the same implant pocket is used the recovery is usually shorter. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort may occur, which can be relieved with pain medication that is prescribed to you. Most patients need to take about a week off from work to recover, though this may vary from patient to patient. Be sure to follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions regarding recovery to ensure the best possible results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to recover from breast implant exchange?

Most swelling and bruising following breast implant exchange should be gone within 6-8 weeks. Your surgeon will inform you when you can return to regular activities.

What happens during breast implant exchange?

During a breast implant exchange procedure, the current breast implants will be changed out for new implants.

How painful is breast implant exchange?

Breast implant exchange patients may experience mild to moderate amount of discomfort during the first 4-5 days depending on the extent of surgery. The treated area may be swollen, tender, or bruised. Your surgeon will review with you how to manage discomfort using a combinations of medications with the goal to minimize narcotics.

How long does breast implant replacement take?

Breast implant replacement typically takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Is breast implant exchange easy?

Breast implant exchange surgery is often easier and less invasive than the original breast implant procedure. Less pain and a quicker recovery may occur since the pocket for the breast implants already exist.

What to expect after exchange surgery?

Recovery from a breast implant exchange is very similar to the initial breast augmentation procedure. Your surgeon will provide you with specific aftercare instructions for ideal results.

How long does swelling last after breast implant exchange?

Swelling can take 6-8 weeks to completely resolve following breast implant exchange.

How many times can breast implants be replaced?

Breast implants should be replaced every 10-20 years, or sooner if there are complications. There is not a set number of times breast implants can be replaced throughout a persons lifetime.

What to expect when getting a breast implant exchange?

During a breast implant exchange, Dr. Mahabir or Dr. Kurtovic will remove, or replace your implants. They may also perform a breast lift at the same time. An in-depth explanation of what to expect can be discussed during your consultation appointment.

When can I sleep on my side after implant exchange?

Patients should avoid sleeping on their side directly after a breast implant exchange procedure to avoid hindering results. However, most people can return to side sleeping after about 3-4 weeks.

Do you have drains after exchange surgery?

Most patients after an implant exchange will not require drains.

How do I prepare for breast implant exchange surgery?

To prepare for a breast implant exchange procedure, patients may be asked to undergo lab testing, breast implant imaging such as ultrasound, MRI, or mammogram, and adjust or stop taking certain medications.

How long does an implant exchange take?

The breast implant exchange procedure may take anywhere between 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the extent of surgery needed and if additional procedures are planned such as a breast lift at the same time.

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Silvia Kurtovic, MD & Raman Mahabir, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons

At Tucson Plastic Surgery, we have a patient-centric approach that sets us apart from the rest. We take the time to really get to know you and your aesthetic goals during one-on-one conversations which help us to fully understand your motivations.

Contact us today

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