Breast Implant Exchnage Removal or Replacement London
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that removes unwanted breast implants. Patients choose to have their implants removed for a variety of reasons, from changes in lifestyle or personal preference to complications such as capsular contracture, rupture, or discomfort. In most cases, the implants are removed without being replaced. At Real Plastic Surgery, many patients decide to combine implant removal with a breast uplift (mastopexy) to restore shape and achieve a more lifted, natural-looking result.
What Is Breast Implant Replacement?
Breast implant replacement, also known as implant exchange, involves removing and replacing existing implants with new ones. Patients choose this procedure for various reasons, such as wanting a smaller/larger size, or a different shape, changes in body proportions over time, or replacing older implants due to wear, rupture, or other complications.
Implant replacement can also be combined with procedures like a breast lift, particularly if there is sagging (known as ptosis) or a desire to restore a more youthful breast position. It’s also a helpful option for addressing asymmetry and refining the overall shape of the breasts.
Schedule a consultation with one of the best Plastic surgeons in London
Before and After
Why Consider a Breast Implant Replacement Surgery in London?
Breast implant replacement surgery in London offers a safe and effective way to update your results and rejuvenate the look and feel of your breasts. Whether your goals have changed or your implants are due for replacement, this procedure allows for a tailored approach that can resolve your insecurities and symptoms, and achieve your desired results. At Real Plastic Surgery, patients choose breast implant replacement for many reasons:
- Update size, shape or type of implant: Over time, many patients wish to change the size or style of their implants to better align with their current body proportions.
- Replace ageing implants or address complications: Implants do not have an infinite lifespan and tend to last between 10 and 20 years. Some patients undergo replacement due to rupture, capsular contracture, or general wear over time.
- Combine with a breast lift for enhanced shape: If there is sagging or loss of fullness, implant replacement can be combined with a breast uplift (mastopexy) to restore a rejuvenated and lifted breast shape.
- Improve breast symmetry or restore volume: Implant exchange can correct unevenness, enhance shape, or restore volume that may have changed due to ageing, pregnancy or weight loss.
Breast Implant Removal or Replacement in London
At Real Plastic Surgery, all breast implant removal and replacement procedures are carried out by Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Naveen Cavale and are fully tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your current concerns and symptoms, the reasons behind your decision to remove or replace your implants, and the best approach to achieve the results you’re looking for. We’ll also explain the recovery process, potential risks, and realistic outcomes of the procedure.
Why Do People Need to Replace Their Breast Implants?
There are several reasons why patients choose to replace their breast implants. In some cases, it’s recommended that implants be replaced after a certain period, typically 10 to 15 years, because of potential changes in implant integrity over time. Others decide to replace their implants because the shape of their body has changed. Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or natural ageing can affect the way implants look or feel, and some patients find that their original implant size no longer suits their frame.
Implant replacement may also be part of a wider surgical plan, such as combining it with a breast lift or breast corrective surgery to refine the shape or position of the breasts. In these cases, a different size, shape, or style of implant may help achieve a better and balanced result.
Treatment Time
Implant removal in London usually takes one to two hours under general anaesthetic.
Downtime
You may find that you’ll need to take 2 weeks off work. You may find that you’re reasonably mobile within 1 day but low activity levels will be required.
Reasonable Mobility
You’ll be walking the same day, though chest movement may feel tight for the first week.
Sport & Exercise
Gentle walking is encouraged early, but strenuous exercise should wait six weeks.
Driving
Most patients can drive again after about one week, once swelling has eased and they feel comfortable.
Shower
You can shower the day after surgery, but it's important to keep any wounds and dressings clean and completely dry.
Full Recovery
Full recovery from implant removal in London takes around six weeks, with results continuing to refine for several months.
Maintenance
Results from implant removal in London are long-lasting, though further procedures may be needed if you want additional reshaping.
Reason for doing this?
Implant removal or exchange is chosen to replace old implants, to correct capsular contracture, to improve discomfort, or to achieve a more desirable shape and size of the breasts.
Reasons to Avoid
If you have any doubts. Our team of experts will provide support and guidance all the way through your treatment journey; using the consultation to determine your suitability and your certainty.
The Patient Journey: Implant Removal or Replacement London
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with Mr Naveen Cavale at The REAL Clinic in Battersea, London. This appointment typically lasts around 60 minutes and is an opportunity to explore whether breast implant removal or replacement is the right approach for you. Mr Cavale will take the time to understand your symptoms and goals, assess your medical history, and do a physical examination if necessary. You’ll discuss the likely outcomes of your treatment and whether this approach aligns with what you hope to achieve. If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to book additional consultations to ensure you’re confident in your decision. It’s very important that patients feel comfortable and confident in their decisions, so Mr Cavale encourages all of his patients to speak to their consultant and close support network before making their final decision.
After surgery, you’ll need to be collected from the clinic and have someone stay with you overnight. If you live more than an hour away, we recommend booking a local hotel for the night with family or a friend to look after you. For patients travelling from abroad, we suggest staying in the UK for 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your individual recovery and treatment plan.
Your aftercare is fully supported by our team. You’ll have virtual contact with our nurses via WhatsApp or phone, or you can contact us at any time, and we’ll see you for a follow-up appointment around one week after surgery to check your incisions, change dressings, and monitor the healing process. At around six weeks, you’ll return to the clinic for a check-up. Most patients can resume many of their normal activities by this point, however, it is very dependent on healing, so we review on a case-by-case basis. We may also request you back in three months to assess the longer-term outcome as your final result begins to take shape.
You’ll need to wear a supportive surgical or sports bra for around six weeks after your implant removal or replacement procedure. This helps support the healing tissue, maintain breast shape, and encourages the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns during your recovery, our specialist nursing team and Mr Cavale are available to support, advise, and reassure you.
What is Capsular Contracture?
When a breast implant is put into the breast, a layer of scar tissue, known as a capsule, forms around it. This happens in every case and is part of the body’s natural healing response. For some patients, the capsule becomes unusually firm or tightens around the implant. This is known as capsular contracture. It can affect the appearance of the breast, causing it to feel hard, look distorted, or sit higher than expected. In more advanced cases, it can also lead to pain or discomfort. Capsular contracture is more likely in individuals who naturally form more scar tissue, though it can happen to anyone. At Real Plastic Surgery, capsular contracture is treated by removing the capsule, known as a capsulectomy, and replacing the implant. This allows a new, healthy capsule to form and restores the natural shape, softness, and symmetry of the breast.
What to Expect on the Day: Implant Removal or Replacement
Breast implant removal or replacement is typically a straightforward procedure, and usually takes a few hours, with patients returning home the same day. Surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic using TIVA (Total Intravenous Anaesthesia), which helps reduce nausea and supports a smoother initial recovery.
The approach depends on whether you are having your implants removed, replaced, or undergoing a combination procedure such as a breast uplift. For implant removal, an incision is made along the existing scar line, often under the breast, and the implants are removed. The incision is closed with fresh sutures to support healing and minimise new scarring. In some cases with capsular contracture, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) is also removed, in a procedure known as a capsulectomy.
If you’re having your implants replaced, the process is similar. If the new implants are a similar size and shape to your previous ones, the existing capsule is usually preserved, making the surgery quicker and less invasive. If your new implants are significantly different to the previous ones, a capsulectomy may be required to ensure the new implants sit correctly and achieve the best result.
Once the procedure is complete, soft dressings will be applied. At Real Plastic Surgery, we use paper tape dressings that are safe to get wet in the shower and typically stay in place for around a week. You can shower the day after surgery, but we advise avoiding baths for around two weeks. After showering, gently pat the area dry with clean tissue or use a hairdryer on the cool setting before putting your support bra back on.
To learn more about implant removal or replacement in London, or to book a consultation with Mr Naveen Cavale, please book online or get in touch here. We’re here to help you feel confident in your body and supported every step of the way.
Book a Consultation
Every transformation starts with a conversation. During your consultation at Real Plastic Surgery, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns, assess your goals, and create a tailored treatment plan that’s right for you. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards feeling your best
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a ruptured implant that needs to be replaced?
Signs of a ruptured implant can vary. For silicone implants, you may notice changes in breast shape, firmness or slight discomfort, while saline implants often deflate more noticeably. If you suspect a rupture, it’s important to book a consultation for implant replacement in London, where Mr Cavale can confirm the diagnosis using imaging and advise on the best next steps.
What happens if you don’t replace breast implants that need to be removed?
Leaving damaged or aged implants in place can increase the risk of complications such as capsular contracture and rupture. If your implants need to be removed or replaced, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Replacing implants in London at the right time will ensure the safety and appearance of your results.
What breast implants are used in the UK?
In the UK, only CE-marked breast implants that meet strict safety and quality standards are used. At Real Plastic Surgery, we use premium, FDA-approved and CE-certified implants for all implant replacement procedures in London. Mr Cavale will discuss the best type, shape, and texture of implant to suit your goals and symptoms.
How long do I wait before replacing implants?
Most implants need replacing after 10 to 15 years. However, some patients choose to undergo implant replacement in London sooner due to changes in lifestyle, body shape, or personal preference. Regular check-ups can help monitor implant integrity and determine when replacement is needed.
Will my chest look flat after breast implant removal surgery?
Not necessarily. While some volume will be lost after implant removal in London, your final result depends on your natural breast tissue and whether additional procedures are performed. Many patients choose to combine removal with a breast lift or fat transfer to maintain shape and create a soft, natural-looking contour.
Latest Blog Posts
Doctify Reviews
Subscribe to our Youtube Channel
Empathetic care as an aesthetic nurse
#9 - Laura Summers - The Virtual Nurse
Legal agreements are not marriage agreements
#8 - Funding Your Clinic Right with Ed Keelan
What To Expect at Initial Nutrition Appointment
Lifestyle and Nutrition Introduction 1
The benefit of Medical PR #business #podcast #surgeon #medical #pr
Build Your Medical Brand with PR Expert Rebecca Lee on The REAL Clinic Podcast
#7 Building a Medical Brand with PR Expert Rebecca Lee | The REAL Clinic Podcast
The advances of day-case surgery
Post-surgery care with Georgios Orfaniotis
Episode 6 of The REAL Clinic Podcast with Georgios Orfaniotis is out now!
#6 - Mastering the Deep Plane Facelift with Georgios Orfaniotis
#5 - Protecting Your Practice with Tom Weiss | The REAL Clinic Podcast
Dr. Maryam Zamani | #4 - The Scenic Route to Building an Empire? | The REAL Clinic Podcast
#3 - How to do 4000 nose jobs and live to tell the tale | Mark Solomos - The REAL Clinic Podcast
#2 - Gary Monaghan - The Clinic Builder - The REAL Clinic Podcast
#1 - Tatler's Guide and building an impact through PR - The REAL Clinic Podcast
Types of Anaesthesia at REAL
REAL Theatre & Ambulatory Area Tour
Plastic Surgery Theatre Theatre Tour - Nav Cavale, CEO
REAL Ophthalmology Theatre Theatre Tour - Nav Cavale, CEO
REAL at The Battersea Clinic
What is breast reduction?
What is rhinoplasty?
What is hydrafacial?
Membrane After Cataract
Plastic Surgery
What is fat transfer?
What is ear surgery or otoplasty?
Mr Naveen Cavale: My Mission
What is cataract surgery?
Male Breast Surgery
The REAL Experience
Piezo Rhinoplasty
Retinal Detachment
Our Range Of Services
Eye Lid Surgery
Macular Hole Surgery
Flashes and floaters
Epiretinal Membrane
Our Expertise at REAL
Mr Naveen Cavale, Founder and CEO of REAL
An Honest Approach
Breast Enlargement
Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
#10 A Pair of Eye Surgeons - Elizabeth Hawkes and James Neffendorf