Breast Implant Replacement
Breast implant replacement is about more than exchanging one implant for another. Careful planning determines whether implant replacement alone, or in combination with procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer, is most likely to achieve each patient's goals.
Introduction
Breast implant replacement involves removal of existing implants and placement of new implants during the same operation. This may be performed for a range of reasons, including implant ageing, rupture, capsular contracture, changes in breast shape over time, or a desire to change implant size, type, or position.
Some women undergo implant replacement to address implant-related complications, while others wish to revise breast shape or volume following pregnancy, weight changes, or changing personal preferences.
THE PROCEDURE
Breast implant replacement is performed under general anaesthetic with Dr Raymond's experienced surgical team at Hunter Valley Private Hospital or Newcastle Private Hospital.
The procedure involves removal of the existing implants, assessment of the implant pocket and capsule, and placement of new implants. Implant size, shape, and position are selected during the planning process to best match the planned breast shape and the quality of the surrounding tissues.
Depending on individual findings and goals, surgery may also include adjustments to the implant pocket, internal support sutures, or changes in implant position.
Where replacement is performed for medical indications such as rupture or capsular contracture, additional procedures such as partial or complete capsulectomy may be required.
THE PROCESS
Breast implant replacement begins with a detailed consultation to understand your concerns, review your implant history, and assess breast shape, skin quality, implant position, and implant type.
Key considerations include:
- Whether implants are being upsized, downsized, or replaced at a similar volume
- The type of implant being selected
- The condition of the implant capsule and surrounding tissues
- Whether breast shape has changed sufficiently to warrant additional procedures
Revision surgery is highly individualised. Not every patient requires capsulectomy, pocket modification, or additional procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer. Recommendations are based on implant position, breast shape, tissue quality, examination findings, and each patient's goals for surgery.
In some cases, implant replacement alone is sufficient. In others, additional surgery may be recommended to improve breast shape and support the long-term result, such as a breast lift or fat transfer.
Breast Shape and Implant Replacement
Over time, the breast skin and supporting tissues can stretch, particularly in the presence of implants. As a result, implant replacement alone may not always achieve the desired breast shape.
Implant Replacement Without Breast Lift
This may be suitable where:
Implant Replacement With Breast Lift
When implants are downsized, when significant drooping is present, or when breast shape has changed substantially, a breast lift (mastopexy) is often recommended at the same time as implant replacement to restore breast shape and nipple position.
Fat Transfer as an Adjunct
Fat transfer may be used in selected cases to improve breast contours, enhance soft tissue coverage, and provide focused volume in specific areas such as the upper breast or cleavage.
THE RECOVERY
Recovery depends on the extent of surgery performed.
Treatment Risks
All surgery carries risk. Risks specific to breast implant removal may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Unfavourable scarring
- Changes in breast shape or contour
- Asymmetry
- Persistent discomfort
- Seroma (fluid collection)
- Dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome
- Need for further surgery
These risks are discussed in detail during consultation. Further information is available on our dedicated Treatment Risks page.
Pricing
Breast implant removal pricing is individualised and depends on whether the procedure is medically indicated, whether capsulectomy is required, and whether additional procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer are performed.
Pricing is provided as an all-inclusive estimate incorporating surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital admission, post-operative garments, routine follow-up appointments, scar care products, LED light therapy, and ongoing nursing support.
Medically Indicated Implant Replacement
For patients who meet Medicare criteria and have appropriate private health insurance, Medicare and private health fund rebates may apply.
As a guide:
- Total upfront cost: approximately $9,500–16,000
- Estimated out-of-pocket cost after rebates: approximately $8,000–14,000
The range reflects whether capsulectomy or pocket revision is required.
Cosmetic Implant Replacement
For patients who do not meet Medicare criteria or who do not have private health insurance:
As a guide:
- Implant replacement only: $14,000–17,000
- Implant replacement with breast lift: $22,000–28,000
Additional options:
- Anatomical implants: add approximately $2,000
- Fat transfer (where indicated): add approximately $3,000–5,000
A personalised written quotation is provided following consultation. All treatment options, implant choices, and associated costs will be discussed before proceeding.
For patients considering implant removal without replacement, you can read more about Breast Implant Removal here.
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