7 Signs You Need A Breast Implant Exchange

7 Signs You Need a Breast Implant Exchange: When to Consider Replacing Your Implants

Breast implants are designed to enhance your figure and boost your confidence, but like any medical device, they are not intended to last forever. While most saline and silicone implants are expected to last up to 20 years, there are 7 signs that you need a breast implant exchange before reaching that time frame. Whether due to natural wear and tear or unforeseen complications, knowing when it’s time for a replacement is crucial to maintaining your health and satisfaction with your results.

At Selarom Plastic Surgery in Salt Lake City, Utah, Dr. Rod Schmelzer specializes in breast implant exchange procedures. In this blog, we’ll explore the top seven signs that may signal it’s time to consider replacing your breast implants and why regular check-ups are essential.

1. Your Breast Implants Are Causing Pain or Discomfort

One of the most common signs that it’s time to exchange your breast implants is persistent pain or discomfort. While mild discomfort after surgery is normal, ongoing pain is not. If your breast implants are causing you pain years after your initial surgery, this could indicate an issue such as capsular contracture, nerve damage, or improper positioning of the implants.

Pain may also be associated with changes in your body, such as weight gain, pregnancy, or hormonal fluctuations, which can impact the positioning of your implants. If you’re experiencing discomfort, it’s important to consult with Dr. Schmelzer to determine the cause and explore options for resolving the issue.

2. Your Breast Implant Has Ruptured

Breast implant rupture is another clear sign that you need an implant exchange. In the case of saline implants, a rupture is easily noticeable, as the breast will deflate and lose volume. The saline solution is safely absorbed by the body, but the ruptured implant will need to be replaced.

With silicone implants, a rupture may not be as immediately obvious. This is often referred to as a “silent rupture” because the silicone gel stays within the breast pocket. Over time, however, you may notice changes in the shape or feel of the breast. It’s recommended to undergo regular MRI scans to check for silent ruptures if you have silicone implants.

3. Your Breast Implant Has Bottomed Out

Bottoming out occurs when the breast implant moves lower on the chest, causing the nipple to appear higher than normal. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including skin laxity, improper implant placement, or the natural aging process. If your breast implant has bottomed out, it can affect the appearance of your breasts and lead to discomfort or dissatisfaction with your results.

A breast implant exchange with a repositioning of the implant may be necessary to correct this issue and restore a more balanced appearance.

4. Your Breast Implant Is Moving or Rotating

Implant displacement or rotation is another sign that it’s time to consider an exchange. This typically occurs with anatomical or teardrop-shaped implants, which are designed to have a specific orientation in the breast pocket. If the implant shifts or rotates, it can cause an unnatural appearance.

Even round implants can move within the breast pocket, leading to asymmetry or discomfort. In these cases, Dr. Schmelzer can perform a breast implant exchange to correct the positioning and ensure a more natural result.

5. Your Breast Implant Has Changed Shape

Over time, you may notice that your breast implants have changed shape or become misshapen. This can happen due to implant rupture, capsular contracture, or changes in your body. A change in the shape of your implants can affect the symmetry and appearance of your breasts, leading many women to seek a breast implant exchange to restore their desired look.

Dr. Schmelzer can evaluate the condition of your implants and recommend the best course of action to achieve the shape and appearance you want.

6. Your Breast Implant Is Causing Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue (or capsule) that naturally forms around the implant tightens and hardens. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and a distorted breast shape. Capsular contracture can happen with both saline and silicone implants and is one of the most common reasons women opt for a breast implant exchange.

If you’re experiencing capsular contracture, Dr. Schmelzer can remove the hardened capsule and replace your implants, helping to restore a softer, more natural feel.

7. It’s Been 20 Years Since Your Original Surgery

Even if you’re not experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to remember that breast implants are not lifetime devices. The general recommendation is to exchange or remove your implants after 20 years, regardless of whether they are saline or silicone.

Over time, the outer shell of the implant can weaken, increasing the risk of rupture or other complications. By scheduling regular check-ups with Dr. Schmelzer and considering an implant exchange after 20 years, you can help ensure the longevity of your results and maintain your peace of mind.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Dr. Rod Schmelzer

If you’re experiencing any of these 7 signs that you need a breast implant exchange or if it’s been 20 years since your original breast augmentation, it may be time to consider a breast implant exchange. Dr. Rod Schmelzer at Selarom Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Call 801-743-0700 today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about breast implant exchange options. You can also book your appointment online for added convenience.

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By staying proactive and recognizing the signs that it’s time for a breast implant exchange, you can continue to enjoy the confidence and beauty that comes with having the right breast implants for your body.