The quality of breast implants has improved dramatically over the last fifteen years, with surgical procedures and practices now offering women better results than ever before. Because of this, an increasing number of women are choosing to have breast implant exchange, or implant replacement surgery.
Some women want to improve upon an earlier augmentation (often known as a breast implant revision), while others see the more natural results of modern implants and want their breasts to look and feel the same. Another reason women opt for breast re-augmentation is to increase or decrease the size of implants. While women’s decisions for having breast implant exchange vary, the results are the same: beautiful, natural-looking breasts.
Dr. Amy Simon (formerly Dr. Ortega) performs breast implant exchange surgery for women in Melbourne and surrounding cities, providing her patients with the aesthetic results they want.
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary
Your Breast Implant Re-Do Consultation
Patients undergoing breast implant exchange surgery may already know what to expect during the procedure, but still a consultation is necessary. Dr. Simon will discuss her methods for the procedure, while you will detail your medical history since your first augmentation surgery. As this is a second procedure, you should also be ready to detail the reasons why you want another breast augmentation. Aesthetic and personal preferences are main reasons for a re-augmentation, so Dr. Simon will discuss with you whether another surgery is right for you.
Breast Implant Exchange Candidates
Any woman who has previously received a breast implant may be a candidate for breast implant exchange surgery, provided they are of good health and maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. When deciding whether you should have another breast augmentation procedure, you should consider some of the following questions:
When was your last augmentation? If you have only recently had your first operation and are not pleased with the results or wish you had a larger implant, then it may be best to wait before jumping into a breast implant revision. It is possible that you will get used to your new size and will be happy with the long-term results without needing secondary breast augmentation.
Why did you have the first augmentation? Most women decide to have a secondary breast augmentation because they are unhappy with how their breasts look. This can be caused by weight loss, pregnancy, genetics, and aging, and an augmentation can restore a youthful appearance to the breasts and enhance the shape. Think about whether your goals were achieved with the first procedure and if you really need to have a breast implant revision.
Do you really want to go bigger? Perhaps just wanting to go bigger is not a good reason to have a breast implant exchange, although it is understandable that women with smaller breasts may want a fuller look. Dr. Simon will help you assess whether your body and structure can accommodate a larger size or whether larger implants will cause pain and discomfort.
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The Breast Implant Exchange Procedure in Melbourne
The surgery for breast re-augmentation is similar to the original procedure, although the exact nature may be different depending on the type of breast implant being placed. There are several different incision locations through which the implant can be inserted, as well as differences in implant placement, and Dr. Simon will discuss which option is best for your breast implant exchange during your consultation.
Your Recovery
Patients are placed in an elastic compression wrap once dressings and drainage tubes have been placed at the end of the breast implant re-do. Breast implant exchange is an outpatient procedure, and patients can typically return home on the same day as the surgery. Swelling and bruising are common for this procedure, and while some patients will see this subside in a few days, it may take months for others.
For the mild pain and discomfort, Dr. Simon will prescribe medication. Individuals can return to work within a few days if their job does not involve heavy lifting or pushing.
Why Choose Our Practice?
If you had your original breast augmentation surgery with Dr. Simon, you know already that you will be getting the best in patient care. For patients new to our practice, you’ll find that Dr. Simon is as compassionate as she is skilled at the art of breast and body plastic surgery. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Simon is an award-winning board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast and body procedures, including breast implant revision. She is a double fellowship trained surgeon and was named among the “10 Best” Plastic Surgeons in Florida.
Breast Implant Exchange FAQ
Are my implants permanent?
Breast implants have a long life and can help to maintain a youthful appearance for your breasts. However, they are not intended to last a lifetime and some women will find that they need to have a breast implant re-do in the future.
Is a saline or silicone implant better for a natural look?
Both saline and silicone implants can result in a natural look. Modern techniques have improved the aesthetics of implants, now giving women the most natural-looking augmentation possible.
Is it safe to get pregnant after breast augmentation surgery?
Yes. Breast implants are completely safe for pregnant women and pose no additional risks, although pregnancy and nursing can cause the breasts to sag. Some women choose to have a secondary breast augmentation or a breast lift after having children.
Should I consider a re-augmentation if my other implants are old?
It depends. If you are still pleased with the results of your original augmentation, then there may be little reason to have another. However, if you want an improved look or want to change size, then a breast re-augmentation may be a good option. The best way to find out if a breast implant exchange is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Simon.