- Confide in us
- Certified plastic surgeon
- 25 years of experience
- Quality over quantity
- Reliable aftercare
- Confide in us
- Certified plastic surgeon
- 25 years of experience
- Quality over quantity
- Reliable aftercare
What is a breast implant exchange?
A breast implant exchange or breast implant revision is a surgical procedure in which previously placed breast implants are removed or replaced with new breast implants.
Breast implant exchange surgery is intended for patients who have had breast augmentation in the past and are:
- no longer satisfied with their implants (size, …) or now require a breast lift (aesthetic reasons) or
- are concerned about the condition of their implants (medical reasons).
Dr. Marc Nelissen
Plastic Surgeon
- We welcome you with:
- 25 years experience in breast augmentations and breast lifts
- Extensive consultation, guidance and postop care
- Natural results
- High-quality breast implants
- Small incision - minimal scar
- Pain-free and quick recovery
- General anesthesia in day clinic (home the same day)
- Safe high-tech operating theatre
- Dedicated team, paramedics and anesthesist
- Good reviews and satisfaction
Facts about breast implant exchange
What you definitely need to know about breast implant exchange:
- Price quote after consultation – starting price from €4130
- General anesthesia (anesthesiologist)
- Home the same day (day surgery)
- 1 week recovery
- Minimal (re)incision of approximately 3 cm at the bottom of the natural breast fold or breast lift scar
Why or when should a breast implant exchange be done? When should breast implants be replaced?
Aesthetic reasons
A breast implant exchange is typically performed for purely aesthetic reasons, to improve the appearance of the breasts after physical changes (aging, menopause, breastfeeding, weight loss), where a decrease in breast tissue (“atrophy”) occurs.
Some common reasons for a breast implant exchange are:
In most cases, a breast implant exchange is requested by the patient who desires a smaller or larger implant, or wishes to switch to a newer version (generation) of breast implants.
In some cases, the breast implant exchange will be combined with a breast lift for a better aesthetic result. If a larger implant is placed without a breast lift, the breasts will sag even more.
In some cases, the breast implant exchange will be combined with internal pocket modulation of the breasts so that the new breast implants fit better. This results in a more natural-looking breast with more fullness at the top.
Medical reasons
Although rarer, a breast implant exchange may also be necessary for medical reasons if there are issues with the condition or integrity of the breast implant, such as in cases of:
Capsular contracture (also referred to as capsule formation issues) refers to an abnormal healing process where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the implant to become compressed, resulting in pain, distortion, and hardening of the breasts.
When the breast implant, for example after an accident, is ruptured or displaced.
The appearance of a double fold as the natural breast tissue sags over the implant.
The appearance of visible edges of the implant under the skin.
Like other medical devices, breast implants have a limited lifespan and need to be exchanged after some time.
More info: also read here our blog about possible reasons to replace your breast implants.
How do I know if and when I should have my breast implants replaced with a breast implant exchange?
No medical complaints:
It is important to regularly have your breast implants checked with an MRI or ultrasound. This screening can potentially be done simultaneously with the recommended breast cancer screening. Make sure the radiologist is aware of the existing breast implants. Routine checks can detect potential problems such as rupture or leaks, as these may occur without noticeable symptoms or complaints.
Medical complaints:
In the case of medical complaints, such as after a car accident or a hard fall, it is recommended to undergo an additional screening.
Where is the scar in a breast implant exchange?
The incision (the scar) will usually be only 3 cm and invisible underneath the natural breast fold.
If the breast implant exchange is combined with a breast lift, the scar will take the shape of an anchor scar.
How much does a breast implant exchange cost?
A breast implant exchange is not a standard or routine surgery and must be carefully tailored to the individual medical history and specific wishes of the patient. The exact costs can only be determined after a consultation. Price estimate for a breast implant exchange starts at €4130.
During the consultation, it will be assessed whether a capsule correction is needed, for example, in the case of a hard capsule, and whether a breast lift is recommended. Additionally, the origin (and surgeon) of the original breast augmentation will be reviewed, along with the type of implants used. After the consultation, you will receive a personal all-inclusive price quote.
Check out our prices page here for rates on a regular breast augmentation and breast lift.
Before and after photos of breast implant exchange
Click here to view our before and after photos of breast implant exchange with real patient results. During the consultation, we can show you even more examples (which we will select according to your measurements).
Satisfied breast implant exchange experiences
Breast lift and breast implant exchange
I can only say nice things about GCC. Dr. Nelissen gave me a super reassuring feeling from the first consultation and is very professional. I give 10 out of 10 and will definitely recommend…
I must also say that all the staff and assistants of Dr. Nelissen are super friendly, and I am always greeted with a smile, which is very pleasant because you immediately feel at home.
I want to congratulate GCC: you are a top team…
Breast implant exchange
Second breast augmentation, this time with a breast implant exchange. A very pleasant experience. The reception at this clinic is very warm. You are immediately made to feel at ease and personally escorted to the operating room on the day of surgery. The follow-up appointments are also all organized very efficiently. The Global Care Clinic has an incredibly friendly and skilled team.
I am very happy with the result, once again!
Breast implant exchange with breast lift
I’ve been to consultations with several plastic surgeons, but only with Dr. Nelissen did I immediately feel I was in the right hands. He is very direct and tells you how it needs to be done, which can come across as a bit overwhelming, but it was clear to me right away that the doctor knows what he’s doing and that he’s a true perfectionist, proud of his work.
When you’re letting someone work on your body, that’s exactly what you want in your treating physician!
Your breast implant exchange -
step by step
The course of your treatment
On our page about the course of your treatment, you will find all the steps, from consultation to recovery. Here we also answer the most frequently asked questions.
Consultation
We also refer to the information about breast augmentation consultation.
Where will my surgery take place? When can I go home?
A breast lift is performed at the Global Care Clinic:
- in one of our modern operating rooms
- under general anesthesia administered by our permanent anesthetist
- as a day procedure: you can go home the same day
Take a look at our operating room here.
News about breast implant replacement
Make your appointment
Easily book your appointment by giving us a call, sending an email, or using our contact or callback form.
For consultations and anti-wrinkle injections, you can also book an appointment online to see available time slots directly.