Whether a patient is looking to change implant size, switch implant type, correct asymmetry, address capsular contracture, or remove implants altogether, this surgery is tailored to meet specific goals. It’s often more complex than the initial augmentation, requiring the expertise of a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Breast implant revision is a highly personalized surgery tailored to correct or enhance the results of a previous breast augmentation. The procedure typically begins with a detailed consultation, where the surgeon evaluates your current implants, skin quality, breast tissue, and overall goals.

Together, you’ll decide whether you want to change implant type, size, or placement—or address issues such as rippling, asymmetry, or capsular contracture.

• Initial Consultation: The journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Your surgeon will discuss previous surgeries, current implant condition, aesthetic goals, and health history. Imaging or ultrasound may be used to assess internal structures.
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to keep the patient fully comfortable and unaware during the procedure.
• Exploration and Removal: The surgeon reopens the previous incision or creates a new one if necessary. Existing implants are removed with care, especially if there’s scar tissue or leakage in silicone implants.
• Capsule Treatment: If a thick or tight capsule has formed around the implant, a capsulectomy (removal) or capsulotomy (release) is performed to improve the breast’s softness and shape.
• Implant Replacement: New implants may be inserted—sometimes of a different size, profile, or type. The pocket may be adjusted to accommodate changes in placement, such as moving from subglandular to submuscular positioning.
• Breast Lift or Reshaping: If needed, a breast lift (mastopexy) may be performed concurrently to address sagging or loss of skin elasticity, especially after implant removal or downsizing.
• Closure: Incisions are carefully closed using layered sutures and skin adhesives, minimizing tension and supporting a clean scar line. Surgical drains may be placed temporarily to reduce fluid buildup.

During surgery, your surgeon will follow a customized plan based on your needs. This might involve removing the old implant, modifying the implant pocket, performing a breast lift, or inserting new implants.

The incisions are usually placed in the same location as the original surgery to minimize additional scarring, though adjustments may be made for optimal access or aesthetics.

Revision surgery is often more complex than initial augmentation and requires advanced techniques to ensure safe outcomes and beautiful, natural-looking results.

A good candidate for breast implant revision is someone who is physically healthy, emotionally prepared, and motivated by personal reasons rather than external pressure. Many women choose revision due to physical discomfort, dissatisfaction with previous results, implant aging, or complications such as rupture or hardening.

The ideal candidate for breast implant revision is someone who has previously undergone breast augmentation and now seeks aesthetic or functional improvements. Whether due to implant complications, aging, body changes, or simply a shift in personal preference, this procedure is designed for individuals ready to improve their breast contour, comfort, or implant condition.

You May Be a Good Candidate If You:

• Experience Implant Complications: Issues such as rupture, leakage, rippling, bottoming out, or capsular contracture are common reasons for revision.
• Desire a Change in Size or Shape: Over time, many patients opt to increase, reduce, or change the shape or projection of their implants for better alignment with current body proportions or aesthetic desires.
• Have Aesthetic Concerns: Asymmetry, poor placement, or dissatisfaction with previous results can all be addressed with revision surgery.
• Notice Aging or Sagging: Breast tissue and skin change with age. Candidates may seek revision to improve sagging, drooping, or volume loss.
• Want Implant Removal: Some patients no longer wish to have implants and pursue explantation, often combined with a lift or fat transfer to preserve shape.
• Maintain Realistic Expectations: Candidates should understand that revision surgery is more complex than initial augmentation, but it can significantly improve results when performed by an experienced surgeon.
• Are in Good Overall Health: Candidates should be nonsmokers or willing to quit, and free of conditions that impair healing.

Importantly, candidates must be aware that revision surgery is not one-size-fits-all. Every body is different, and the process may require addressing scar tissue, weakened breast tissue, or stretched skin. A detailed understanding of your goals, combined with realistic expectations and a commitment to post-op care, makes you an ideal candidate for this transformative procedure.

Preparation for breast implant revision begins with a comprehensive consultation and health screening. Your plastic surgeon will review your medical history, assess your current implants, and discuss the changes you wish to make. Blood work or imaging (like a breast MRI) may be ordered to evaluate implant integrity, especially if silicone implants are involved.

During this phase, it’s crucial to share any previous surgical complications, lifestyle changes, or new medical conditions. Patients should stop smoking at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery to optimize circulation and healing. Avoid blood-thinning medications, supplements, and anti-inflammatory drugs as they may increase bleeding risk during and after surgery.

Pre-Operative Guidelines

• Arrange for time off work—typically one to two weeks depending on your revision plan.
• Prepare your recovery space at home with soft pillows, a recliner or wedge pillow, and essential items within easy reach.
• Stock up on healthy meals, hydration options, and any post-op prescriptions filled in advance.
• Coordinate transportation and aftercare help for the first 48–72 hours post-surgery.
• Follow all fasting instructions given by your surgeon if you’re undergoing general anesthesia.

Mental & Emotional Preparation

Revision surgery can be both physically and emotionally complex. Managing expectations is essential—results may take weeks or even months to fully settle, especially if corrective work is extensive. Journaling your goals and taking pre-op photos can help document your transformation. It’s also helpful to speak with others who have undergone similar procedures or consult with a therapist if you’re feeling anxious. A prepared mind supports a smoother recovery and more rewarding outcome.

Breast implant revision is often combined with or considered alongside other procedures to enhance results, correct complications, or meet evolving aesthetic goals. Whether the revision is functional or cosmetic, several surgeries may complement or substitute it, depending on the patient’s anatomy and objectives.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift is commonly performed with implant revision, especially when implants are removed or downsized. Removing implants may leave behind stretched or sagging tissue, which can be reshaped and lifted for a firmer, more youthful contour.

• Reshapes and tightens sagging breast tissue
• Can reposition the nipple for a more natural look
• Often performed when removing or reducing implant size

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

For patients who no longer want implants but still desire volume, fat grafting offers a natural solution. Liposuction is used to harvest fat from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs, which is then purified and injected into the breasts to add subtle fullness.

• Provides a natural look and feel using your own fat
• Ideal for patients seeking modest enhancement
• Can help refine breast shape after implant removal

Capsulectomy or Capsulotomy

If scar tissue has hardened around an implant (capsular contracture), a capsulectomy (removal of the capsule) or capsulotomy (release of the capsule) may be performed. These procedures are often part of a revision plan when correcting implant complications.

• Treats painful or distorted breasts due to contracture
• Restores soft, natural breast contours
• May be paired with new implant placement

En Bloc Implant Removal

Some patients choose to remove their implants and the surrounding capsule entirely in one piece—especially those with concerns about breast implant illness (BII) or ruptured silicone implants. This is a more involved surgery and is usually performed by experienced surgeons specializing in explant procedures.

• Removes the implant and scar capsule as a single unit
• Common among patients experiencing systemic symptoms
• May be followed by fat grafting or a breast lift

Implant Size Adjustment or Shape Conversion

Many patients undergo revision simply to change the size or shape of their implants. This is often an elective upgrade to match changes in body weight, personal style, or aging breasts. Options include switching from round to anatomical (teardrop) shapes or increasing/decreasing implant volume.

• Customizes the breast profile to match evolving preferences
• Can refresh the overall aesthetic after years with implants
• Usually a shorter recovery than full removal or replacement

The cost of breast implant revision surgery can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s expertise, and the geographical location of the practice. On average, patients can expect to pay between $6,000 and $12,000, but more intricate revisions involving implant exchange, capsulectomy, or reshaping can exceed that range.

What’s Typically Included

• Surgeon’s Fee: Based on skill level, training, and years of experience
• Anesthesia Fees: General anesthesia is most common and adds to the overall cost
• Facility Fees: Costs for the surgical suite, recovery room, and operating staff
• Implant Costs: If new implants are inserted, the type (saline, silicone, gummy bear) affects the price
• Post-Operative Garments and Medications: Includes surgical bras, pain medication, and antibiotics

Additional Factors That Influence Price

Some revision cases require more extensive correction than others. For example, correcting capsular contracture, repositioning implants, or performing a simultaneous breast lift (mastopexy) can increase surgical time and complexity, which raises the cost.

• Type of Revision: Simple implant exchange is more affordable than full capsulectomy or reconstruction
• Time Since Last Surgery: Older implants or scarred tissue may require more extensive work
• Complication Management: Treating ruptured implants or infections can involve added expenses

Insurance Coverage

Breast implant revision is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and not covered by insurance. However, if the revision is medically necessary—such as correcting implant rupture, severe capsular contracture, or complications related to prior reconstructive surgery—partial coverage may be possible. Patients should consult their provider and insurer for specific policy details.

Financing Options

Many plastic surgery practices offer financing through third-party companies like CareCredit, Alphaeon, or in-house payment plans to make surgery more accessible. Interest-free promotional periods or monthly installment options may help patients proceed with their desired procedure without fin

Breast implant revision doesn’t just fix or remove old implants—it’s also an opportunity to choose new implants that better suit your current body, goals, and lifestyle. The choice of implant plays a central role in both the aesthetic outcome and long-term satisfaction. Whether you’re upgrading for cosmetic reasons or correcting complications, knowing your implant options is key to achieving your desired results.

Saline Implants

• Filled with sterile salt water after insertion, allowing for smaller incisions.
• In the event of rupture, the body absorbs the saline safely and visibly deflates the implant.
• Offers a firmer feel and may be more prone to rippling, especially in thinner patients.

Silicone Implants

• Pre-filled with silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue.
• Preferred by many patients for a softer, more realistic texture and appearance.
• May require routine MRI or ultrasound to detect silent ruptures, as leaks aren’t always obvious.

Gummy Bear Implants

• Form-stable implants made of cohesive silicone gel that holds its shape, even if ruptured.
• Ideal for patients seeking a teardrop-shaped contour with long-lasting structure.
• Less likely to ripple or fold, but requires a slightly larger incision for placement.

Fat Transfer (as an Adjunct)

• Used in combination with implants to smooth out contours, correct asymmetry, or mask rippling.
• Involves harvesting fat from another area of the body and injecting it around the implant.
• Offers a natural enhancement but cannot replace the volume provided by full implants alone.

Breast implant revision surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with potential risks. While the majority of patients experience a smooth recovery with beautiful results, it’s important to understand the complications that could arise. Some risks are associated with surgery in general, while others are specific to breast implant procedures.

Surgical and Anesthetic Risks

General anesthesia is safe for most patients but can pose risks such as allergic reactions, breathing issues, or nausea. Bleeding, infection, or poor healing of incisions may occur, especially if post-op care guidelines are not followed carefully.

• Hematoma or fluid accumulation that may require drainage
• Delayed wound healing or thickened scars
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia medications

Implant-Related Complications

Breast implant revision typically addresses issues such as rupture, capsular contracture, or implant malposition. However, these complications can also reoccur post-surgery if proper precautions aren’t taken.

• Capsular Contracture: The formation of scar tissue that can harden around the implant
• Implant Rupture or Deflation: Especially in saline implants, this results in rapid volume loss
• Rippling or Wrinkling: Often seen in thinner patients or with saline implants
• Implant Malposition: Shifting of the implant from its ideal position

Aesthetic Dissatisfaction

Despite improvements, some patients may not achieve their desired outcome, especially if expectations weren’t clearly communicated during consultation.

• Asymmetry or uneven shape
• Unfavorable scarring or nipple displacement
• Persistent dissatisfaction with breast size or projection

Long-Term Considerations

While today’s implants are more durable than ever, they are not lifetime devices. Most implants require monitoring and may eventually need replacement or removal. In rare cases, breast implant-associated illnesses such as BIA-ALCL (a type of lymphoma) have been reported, mostly linked to textured implants.

Patients are encouraged to maintain routine follow-ups and imaging studies (like ultrasound or MRI) to ensure implants remain intact and safe.

Recovery from breast implant revision varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether new implants were placed, and the patient’s individual healing response. While the recovery timeline can resemble that of initial augmentation, revision surgery often involves more delicate work, especially if scar tissue, implant rupture, or pocket adjustments are addressed. Understanding each phase of the healing process can make your recovery smoother and more predictable.

First Week: Rest and Initial Healing

• Expect swelling, bruising, and chest tightness for the first few days. This is normal as the body adjusts to the changes.
• Pain is typically managed with prescription medications. Cold compresses and rest are encouraged.
• A surgical bra or compression garment must be worn at all times to reduce swelling and support healing tissues.
• Drains, if placed, are usually removed within a few days at your follow-up appointment.

Most patients feel tired or groggy due to anesthesia and the physical toll of surgery. Light movement, such as gentle walking, is encouraged to promote circulation and help prevent blood clots.

Week 2 to Week 3: Returning to Daily Life

• Swelling and discomfort typically begin to subside significantly during this period.
• Sutures may dissolve on their own or be removed at your surgeon’s discretion.
• You may begin to resume light daily activities, but avoid lifting, bending, or reaching above your head.
• Driving may be possible once you are off pain medications and can safely operate a vehicle.

Many patients begin to feel like themselves again, but it’s still important to listen to your body and not rush into physical activities or exercise.

Weeks 4 to 6: Resuming Activity

• You may return to work (especially non-physical jobs) if approved by your surgeon.
• Moderate swelling and sensitivity may persist but should be greatly improved.
• Most patients can switch from surgical garments to soft, non-underwire bras with clearance.
• Low-impact physical activity may be reintroduced gradually under your surgeon’s guidance.

Scars begin to mature during this time, and your new breast shape becomes more settled. Proper hydration, gentle movement, and nutrition are vital to help your body recover fully.

Long-Term Healing: After 6 Weeks

• The majority of healing is complete, though subtle changes can continue for several months.
• Final breast shape and softness become more noticeable as tissues settle.
• Scarring continues to fade over 6 to 12 months; treatments like silicone sheets or scar gel may help improve appearance.
• Patients are typically cleared for full activity, including exercise and regular bra wear.

Long-term follow-up with your surgeon is important to monitor results and address any concerns. Most patients report high satisfaction once healing is complete, especially when the revision corrects complications or enhances aesthetic outcomes.