BREAST SURGERY
Breast Implant Exchange
Breast implant exchange replaces existing implants with new ones. It may be considered when your preferred size or shape has changed, or when an implant problem needs evaluation. Planning starts with the reason for revision and the condition of the surrounding breast tissue, rather than selecting a new implant alone. Discuss your goals and treatment options with Dr. Bernard Salameh.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS
Understanding your reasons for revision
Changes in appearance, discomfort or concern about implant integrity deserve an individual assessment. Good general health, stable weight, realistic expectations and not smoking are relevant to candidacy. Discuss previous surgery, current medicines, medical conditions and your goals. An examination helps distinguish a size preference from a problem requiring further evaluation; those situations may lead to different treatment plans.
What an exchange may involve
The plan may include changing implant size or style, adjusting the implant pocket, or discussing a lift when skin and position are concerns. Incisions depend on the work required. The scar capsule around an implant may need treatment in selected cases; removing all capsule tissue is not an automatic part of every exchange. Ask what each proposed step addresses and what alternatives fit your goals.
Risks of surgery and replacement implants
Revision surgery can cause bleeding, infection, poor healing, scars, altered sensation, uneven shape, persistent pain or fluid collections. Anesthesia complications and blood clots are possible. New implants also carry ongoing risks, including rupture and tightening of scar tissue around the implant. Discuss implant-associated cancers, including BIA-ALCL, and reported systemic symptoms as part of informed consent. More surgery may be needed in the future.
Recovery depends on the full operation
Dressings, a support garment or temporary drains may be used. Your instructions should cover incision care, medicines, warning signs and follow-up. A simple exchange and a revision that also reshapes tissue may have different care needs. Ask about lifting, driving, work and exercise, and arrange help around the actual restrictions. Swelling can obscure early results, so follow-up matters when assessing healing.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Questions about implant exchange
Have a question that is not here? Request a consultation to discuss it with your surgeon.
How is exchange different from removal?
Exchange places new implants after the existing ones are removed. Removal without replacement is a separate choice for someone who no longer wants implants. Discuss both the desired appearance and the ongoing responsibilities that come with replacement implants.
Must implants be replaced at ten years?
There is no single replacement date that fits everyone. The FDA explains that implants are not lifetime devices and their lifespan cannot be predicted. Decisions should reflect symptoms, implant condition, appropriate monitoring and your preferences.
Will a smaller implant also lift my breasts?
A change in implant size does not answer every concern about loose skin or breast position. A lift may be discussed separately. Ask your surgeon to explain the expected shape, scar pattern and tradeoffs of each option.
What should I ask about long-term care?
Review the proposed implant’s patient labeling and decision checklist. Ask how to monitor that device, when imaging may be appropriate and which changes need assessment. Keep the implant identification information with your health records.
PATIENT RESOURCES
Further reading
Request a Consultation
Discuss your goals with our team
Request a consultation with Kassis Salameh Plastic Surgery in Bowling Green, Kentucky. We can discuss your questions and help you understand the next step toward an individual surgical evaluation.
Call 270-822-1769 · Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM
Kassis Salameh Plastic Surgery
A Plastic Surgery practice in Bowling Green, Kentucky, led by Dr. Salam Kassis and Dr. Bernard Salameh: two double board-certified surgeons. Dr. Kassis focuses on facial surgery, including deep plane facelift, rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery. Dr. Salameh focuses on lipedema, breast surgery and body contouring.
996 Wilkinson Trace, Suite C1
Bowling Green, KY
Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM
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