9 Reasons To Replace or Remove Your Breast Implants: Indications and Procedures

Breast implants are synthetic products and are not designed to last a lifetime. Over time, they may become damaged, displaced, or simply no longer align with your aesthetic goals. In such cases, a breast implant removal or replacement surgery may be necessary.

What is A Breast Implant Replacement Surgery?

Breast implant replacement surgery is performed to remove old implants from previous breast augmentation or reconstruction, and replace them with new ones. This can be done for medical, cosmetic, or personal reasons.

In many cases, the original incision is used—typically along the crease under the breast or around the areola—to minimize new scarring. After implant removal, your surgeon may recommend a breast lift (mastopexy) to tighten loose skin and improve the shape, especially if sagging has occurred.

Benefits of Breast Revision Surgery

• Enhanced breast shape and softness

• Relief from discomfort caused by complications (e.g. capsular contracture)

• Improved symmetry and implant positioning

• Boost in confidence and body image

9 Common Reasons to Replace or Remove Breast Implants

1. Visible Rippling or Implant Creases

Rippling may appear as visible folds or wrinkles under the skin, especially in patients with thin tissue or after significant weight loss.

2. Implant Rupture

Silicone implants can rupture silently, while saline implants usually deflate noticeably. Ruptured implants need to be removed or replaced.

3. Capsular Contracture

Normally, after 4-6 weeks of surgery, a thin layer of connective tissue forms around the breast implant - called the fibrous capsule. This is a natural physiological reaction of the body's immune system when it sees a "foreign object" appear. The fibrous capsule is thin, still retains its original shape and cannot be felt. However, in some cases, the fibrous capsule shrinks and compresses the breast implant, causing the breast to harden.

There are 4 levels of capsular contracture, from normal to severe.

1. Level I: natural shape and size of the breast implant, soft to the touch, does not affect the results of breast implant placement.

2. Level II: slightly hard breast but normal shape.

3. Level III: moderate capsular contracture.

4. Level IV: The breast implant shrinks, hardens, is clearly deformed, and has chest pain

4. Implant Displacement

Implants may shift too low (bottoming out), too far apart (lateral displacement), or too close (symmastia). Surgical revision may be necessary to reposition and stabilize the implant.

5. Unnatural Nipple Position

Nipples may appear uneven or retracted due to implant issues or sagging. Revision surgery can reposition them.

6. Areola Reduction/Correction

If you’re unhappy with large or asymmetrical areolas, this can be corrected during revision surgery, often combined with augmentation.

7. Sagging Breasts (Ptosis)

With age, weight loss, or pregnancy, breasts may droop. Patients may choose to undergo a breast lift procedure to remove excess skin and reshape breast tissue. Often, plastic surgeons may also recommend implants to give the breasts more definition and to better position the nipples.

8. Implant Size Dissatisfaction

Body changes may prompt a switch to larger or smaller implants to better suit your current preferences and frame.

9. Switching To A More Natural Looking, Softer Implant

Breast implants come in different shapes, sizes, firmness, brands, and texture. Motiva implants tend to have a textured surface and are slightly firmer, whereas Mentor implants have a smooth surface and softer touch. Some implants are also round in shape, giving patients a fuller look, whereas others are teardrop shaped, giving a more natural look. Preference may change overtime.

When is Breast Implant Revision Recommended?

While breast implants can last 10–15 years, replacement may be necessary due to:

• Capsular contracture or hard scar tissue

• Implant rupture or leakage

• Cosmetic dissatisfaction

• Age-related breast changes

• Calcium deposits around the implant

• Implant shifting or sagging

How Is the Procedure Performed?

At R&R Beauty Aesthetic, revision surgeries are performed in our partner hospitals under general anesthesia by our panel of certified plastic surgeons. Whenever possible, incisions are made along previous scars to minimize new marks.

Depending on your case, your surgeon may:

• Remove or replace the implant

• Perform a capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue)

• Modify the implant pocket for better positioning

• Add a breast lift or areola correction if needed

The procedure typically takes around 2 hours, and most patients stay overnight in the hospital for observation.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Expect mild pain, swelling, and bruising for the first 1–2 weeks

• Wear a supportive compression bra to help with healing and implant positioning

• Avoid intense physical activity for at least 2–3 weeks

• Attend all follow-up appointments for wound care and stitch/drain removal

• Contact our team immediately if you experience fever, redness, or chest pain

At R&R Beauty Aesthetic, our international clients benefit from personalized aftercare, including private transportation, private nurse services, and LED treatment at our clinic to support your recovery.

Cost of Breast Implant Revision Surgery

The cost of breast implant replacement or removal varies based on:

• Type of new implant

• Additional procedures (e.g., lift, areola correction, capsulectomy)

• Operating facility and anesthesiology fees

We provide transparent quotes after a detailed consultation. Our goal is to make quality breast revision surgery accessible while maintaining the highest medical standards.

Trust R&R Beauty Aesthetic for Safe Breast Implant Revision

If you’re experiencing discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or just feel your implants no longer suit your body or lifestyle, our team is here to help. Contact R&R Beauty Aesthetic today for a confidential consultation and explore your options with Vietnam’s leading plastic surgeons.