Breast Implant Exchange
The Next Chapter
For some, a breast implant exchange may be required after their initial breast augmentation surgery.
A breast implant exchange involves removing breast implants and replacing them with new ones. There are several reasons you might choose Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery for breast implant exchange, including a preference for a different size, shape, or style of implant; implant rupture; or capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue surrounding the implant).
As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Tina Sauerhammer has extensive experience in performing breast implant exchange procedures for patients in Appleton and Green Bay.
Breast implant exchange is a tailored surgical procedure designed to revise the results of prior breast implant surgery. It is distinct from the initial breast augmentation as it involves working within existing scar tissue and addressing the current condition of the breast pocket. Reasons for the implant replacement vary, including:
Capsular contracture is a potential complication of breast augmentation surgery. It occurs when the natural scar tissue capsule that forms around the implant begins to tighten. This can cause the breast to feel firm, look distorted, and sometimes even be painful. The exact cause of capsular contracture isn’t always clear, but factors like infection, hematoma (blood collection), and the type of implant used may play a role. While capsular contracture is not inherently dangerous, it can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort, prompting some women to seek a breast implant exchange.
Before surgery, Dr. Sauerhammer will take time to discuss the types of breast implants available, including saline and silicone implants, to determine which implants are most suitable for you. During your consultation, Dr. Sauerhammer will recommend different sizes and shapes of implants to ensure the procedure provides the breast size and shape you hope to achieve.
The procedure involves the careful removal of your current implants. If you’re experiencing issues like capsular contracture, Dr. Sauerhammer will address this during your procedure. Your new implants will then be placed.
Understanding the breast implant exchange procedure is essential to making an informed decision about your surgery. Here’s what to expect:
Dr. Sauerhammer will guide you through the process with a thorough initial consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Sauerhammer will discuss your medical history, your goals for the surgery, and any concerns you may have. Your consultation will also explain what you can expect from your initial recovery period.
Imaging, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, may be required during the consultation.
Dr. Sauerhammer will also talk you through the procedure itself. She will explain the type of anesthesia to be used during the surgery—typically a general anesthetic—and the incisions that will be used during the surgery. Common incisions used for this procedure include inframammary fold (the line below the natural curve of the breast), axillary (to the outer side of the breast), and periareolar (an incision around the outside of the areola).
Dr. Sauerhammer will also discuss the placement of your breast implants, which could be subglandular (in front of the muscle but behind the glandular tissue of the breast) or submuscular (under the pectoralis major muscle). The pocket is then prepared, and the new breast implant (or none, if implant removal is requested) is inserted. The breast volume is carefully assessed.
Incisions are closed to minimize new scarring. Drainage tubes may be necessary temporarily to manage excess fluid.
Breast implant exchange specifically addresses the following complications and patient dissatisfaction issues:
The benefits of breast implant exchange are centered on restored comfort, safety, and confidence.
Restored Comfort and Breast Shape
For patients experiencing complications like capsular contracture or breast pain, the exchange provides significant relief and corrects the distorted breast shape, restoring a soft, natural contour.
Updated Aesthetics and Peace of Mind
The ability to update to the latest implant technology or simply achieve a newly desired implant size or type significantly boosts self-image and provides peace of mind regarding implant integrity.
You may be a good candidate if you:
A thorough consultation, often including breast imaging (MRI), is necessary to diagnose any underlying issue before a personalized treatment plan can be created.
Dr. Sauerhammer’s precise surgical skills help to reduce discomfort following your surgery. She will provide valuable advice to support your recovery following breast implant exchange surgery.
To ensure the best results, avoid strenuous activities for around four to six weeks, and wear a supportive bra while your breasts settle into position after surgery.
Dr. Sauerhammer will support your recovery and monitor your healing during follow-up appointments, which are an essential component of your post-surgery care. Following Dr. Sauerhammer’s advice during your recovery will help you maintain the best results from your breast implant exchange and reduce the chances of corrective surgery being required in the future.
The cosmetic correction is immediately noticeable, especially if you were suffering from distortion due to capsular contracture. The final, refined breast shape will emerge over several weeks as swelling subsides. Final results are typically seen within 3 months. The longevity of the new implants will depend on the type chosen, but regular breast imaging and check-ups remain critical throughout the life of the implant.
Patients in Appleton and Green Bay choose Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery because of the skill, experience, and personal attention that our team provides. Learn what other people in our community have to say about our doctors and their treatment.
Dr. Sauerhammer is a highly experienced double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in complex revision surgery. We provide the utmost care for our breast implant exchange patients, prioritizing safety by utilizing necessary diagnostic tools like breast imaging and ensuring capsulectomy is performed when medically indicated. Our focus is on achieving a renewed sense of confidence and a lasting, beautiful result in our private, accredited surgery center.
Schedule a consultation with the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery to discuss your breast implant exchange needs in Appleton or Green Bay, and we’ll be happy to help. Contact us online or call us at (920) 380-9890.
Patient satisfaction and exceptional results are just some of the reasons why residents of Appleton and Green Bay choose Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery. Our patients appreciate our:
Choosing an experienced surgeon is vital. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sauerhammer has both the skills and experience to provide you with the highest standard of care and results from your surgery.
Every patient at Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and aesthetic goals. We are committed to providing the highest standard of personalized care for every patient.
The use of advanced technology to deliver incredible results within a professional, yet comfortable space sets the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery apart from other practices.
Our patients are delighted with the results of their treatments and earnestly recommend Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery. Read about their experiences by viewing our testimonials.
Capsular contracture is the tightening of the scar tissue capsule surrounding the breast implants. It is treated surgically with a capsulectomy, where the capsule itself is entirely or partially removed before implant replacement to prevent recurrence and alleviate breast pain.
If the breast implant exchange is medically necessary—for instance, to treat implant rupture or severe capsular contracture—some portion of the surgical procedure may be covered by insurance. If the reason is purely cosmetic (e.g., change implant size), it is typically not covered.
BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is a very rare form of cancer associated primarily with textured breast implants. Dr. Sauerhammer discusses this risk during your consultation, and if diagnosed, implant removal and capsulectomy are performed.
If you desire implant removal without replacement (explant), Dr. Sauerhammer will remove the breast implants and often the scar tissue capsule. Depending on the amount of excess skin remaining, a breast lift may be recommended to create a pleasing breast shape and avoid a deflated appearance.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, you can enjoy a range of cosmetic procedures and dedicated care in our offices in Appleton and Green Bay. As a double-board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sauerhammer specializes in rejuvenating surgical solutions, including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and facelifts, designed to help you look and feel your best. We seamlessly integrate all our plastic surgery services with skilled dermatology care and aesthetic specialists: Megan MacCarthy, PA-C, Colleen Van Egeren, PA-C, and Amanda Olsen, PA-C. They prioritize your goals through comprehensive evaluations and advanced techniques to help you achieve optimal and long-lasting results.
