How to Know If Your Breast Implants Need to be Replaced

Breast augmentation has helped countless women in Fredericksburg, VA enhance the size and shape of their breasts. While breast implants are designed to last for many years, they are not meant to last a lifetime.

Below, our plastic surgeons discuss how to know if your implants need to be replaced and what you can expect from revision surgery. Call Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg to book an appointment and discuss any concerns you have today.

Breast pain or discomfort

Some discomfort is normal in the weeks following breast augmentation surgery. However, persistent or worsening pain may be a sign that something is wrong with your implants. This could be due to:

• Capsular contracture: This happens when scar tissue around the implant becomes thick and tight, causing pain and warping around the breast area.
• Implant rupture: A rupture or tear in your implant can cause sharp pain or soreness in the breast.
• Implant displacement: If your implant shifts from its original position, it can lead to some discomfort. Displacement is caused by trauma or force applied to the breast.
• Infection: Though less common, an infection in the breast can cause pain, redness, and swelling. An infection requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Changes in breast appearance

If you notice changes in the appearance of your breasts, it could be a sign that your implants need to be replaced in Fredericksburg, VA. Some common changes include:

• Uneven or asymmetrical breasts: One breast may seem larger or sit higher than the other.
• Rippling: This occurs when the edges of the implants can be seen or felt through the skin. It is more common in saline implants and can indicate that the implant has ruptured or shifted.
• Bottoming out: This happens when the implant slides down and causes the nipple to point upward.

Personal preference

Even if there are no complications or changes in appearance after breast augmentation, many women choose to replace their implants due to personal preferences. Sometimes, they want a different breast implant size or shape, or they have had their current implants for a long time and simply want a change. At Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, we offer a variety of implant options to help achieve your desired look.

What to expect from breast revision surgery

If you and your plastic surgeon decide that your breast implants should be replaced, here is what you can expect during breast revision surgery:

• Examination: Your surgeon will examine your current implants and assess any changes or complications.
• Implant removal: The old implants will be removed through the original incisions, if possible. If needed, new incisions may be made in a different location for better results.
• Implant replacement: The new implants are then placed and positioned according to your preferences.

Following surgery, our trained surgical team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and book follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. Our goal is to ensure that you are happy with your new breast implants for as long as possible.

Speak with a trained plastic surgeon today

At Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, we understand that breast implants are a big investment in yourself. If you have concerns about your implants or are interested in revision surgery in Fredericksburg, VA, call to book an appointment. Our experienced plastic surgeons will work with you to determine the best possible course of action for your unique needs and goals.