Breast Implant Exchange in Scottsdale, AZ

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., and for many patients, it produces beautiful and natural results. While results from breast augmentation procedures are long-lasting, on average, women replace their implants once every ten years. At Forma Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons provide breast implant exchange surgery and perform an in-depth consultation to help reach your desired results.

Table of Contents

What Is Breast Implant
Exchange Surgery?

Breast implant exchange is the replacement of old implants with new ones. Often, the goal is to change or improve the appearance of the breasts, increase or decrease the size of the breast implant, or update the implant material.

Before & After

Reasons for Pursuing Breast Implant Revision Surgery

Breast implant exchange surgery either removes an implant that is no longer wanted or one that may be defective. This surgery also works well for patients who desire a different implant size or type. Patients can also experience other common issues that may require revision surgery, including:

Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, our surgeons will carefully evaluate your goals, medical history, and existing breast tissue to understand your unique anatomy and concerns. We will review the details of your primary augmentation, discuss what you would like to change or maintain, and outline a personalized surgical plan to achieve balanced, natural-looking results. This visit also includes a thorough discussion of implant type, size options, and placement so patients can choose the solution that best aligns with their aesthetic goals and long-term expectations.

Breast Implant Exchange: A Step-by-Step Procedure

Anesthesia

Breast implant exchange is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure. This allows the surgeon to work precisely and efficiently while the patient remains fully asleep and pain-free. The anesthesia plan is discussed in advance and tailored to the individual’s health history and surgical needs.

Incisions

Incisions are usually made along existing scars whenever possible to minimize additional visible scarring. Common incision locations include the inframammary fold (beneath the breast), around the areola, or along prior augmentation incisions. The chosen approach depends on the patient’s anatomy, the type of implants being exchanged, and whether the surgeon needs additional access to address complications.

Removal of Existing Implants

Once the incisions are made, the surgeon carefully removes the existing breast implants. This step allows for direct evaluation of the surrounding tissue, scar capsule, and overall breast structure. If the implants are ruptured, outdated, or no longer align with the patient’s goals, they are safely removed in preparation for replacement.

Implant Pocket Adjustment

The implant pocket – the space that holds the breast implant – may be modified during exchange surgery. This can involve tightening, repositioning, or reshaping the pocket to improve implant support, symmetry, and breast contour. Adjustments to the pocket are especially important when changing implant size, profile, or placement.

Placement of New Implants

After preparing the implant pocket, new implants are selected and placed according to the customized surgical plan. Surgeons ensure proper positioning to achieve balanced proportions and a natural appearance. This step allows the surgeon to address aesthetic concerns and fine-tune results before closing the incisions.

Closure and Final Assessment

Once the new implants are securely in place, the incisions are meticulously closed. The surgeon performs a final assessment of breast shape, symmetry, and positioning while the patient is still in the operating room. This comprehensive approach allows the procedure to not only refresh prior results but also proactively address complications that may have developed since the original surgery.

How Is Recovery Following a Breast Implant Exchange?

Following your procedure, your recovery will depend on what is involved during your surgery. You should slowly start to see your results once the swelling disappears, and we will provide detailed aftercare instructions to encourage healing and increase comfort throughout this process. It’s important to follow these instructions closely, including managing any discomfort with prescribed medications and attending all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. Additionally, activities such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise should be avoided during the initial recovery period to prevent complications and support optimal results.

Recovery Timeline

First Few Days: Swelling, tightness, and mild to moderate discomfort are common. Patients are advised to rest, limit arm movement, and wear a supportive bra as directed to help minimize swelling and support the breasts.
Week 1: Many patients return for a follow-up visit to allow the surgeon to evaluate early healing. Discomfort typically continues to improve, though you may still be advised to avoid driving if you are taking certain medications.
Weeks 2–4: Swelling continues to subside, and light daily activities can usually be resumed. Most women can return to work and normal routines within this timeframe, provided their job does not involve strenuous activity.
Weeks 4–6 and beyond: As healing progresses, exercise and more demanding activities may gradually be reintroduced with surgeon approval. Breast shape and positioning continue to refine as residual swelling resolves and final results become more visible.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Implant Exchange?

If you have previously received breast implants and are finding that over time, they have shown some signs of wear, you may be an excellent candidate for an exchange at Forma Plastic Surgery. Many of our Scottsdale patients who received implants years ago elect for an exchange to maintain the bounciness, perkiness, and touchability of their breast implants. Ideal candidates for this procedure have implants that are around 10 years old, desire to rejuvenate their breast appearance, and may be interested in revising the shape and/or size of their prior implants.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Implant Exchange?

Breast implant exchange at Forma Plastic Surgery provides several great benefits to renew and enhance your look, including:

Offers multiple implant options
Allows you to increase or decrease implant size
Replaces defective or damaged implants
Enables you to upgrade to a newer or different type of implant
Replaces implants more than ten years old
Softens the feel of implants affected by capsular contracture
Lifts implants that have migrated
Helps you achieve a new level of confidence

Cost of Breast Implant Exchange in Scottsdale, AZ

The cost of breast implant exchange in Scottsdale typically ranges from $6,000 to $12,000, depending on several individualized factors. Pricing may vary based on the use of silicone implants, advancements in breast implant technology, details related to your previous surgery, and whether you are opting for larger breasts or a different implant style. A personalized consultation is an excellent way to receive an accurate estimate tailored to your goals and surgical needs.

Enhance Your Appearance with Breast Implant Exchange

Breast implant exchange is a customized procedure designed to help patients refresh or improve the results of a previous breast augmentation. Whether you wish to change implant size or type, address natural changes over time, or resolve a medical concern, we encourage you to contact our office to schedule a consultation at Forma Plastic Surgery. During your visit, our board-certified plastic surgeons will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, discuss your goals, review available options, and develop a personalized treatment plan while setting clear and realistic expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need a breast lift after a breast implant exchange?

You will likely not need a breast lift following a breast implant exchange at Forma Plastic Surgery. However, if you are considering not replacing your implants after removal, a breast lift may be necessary to maintain an aesthetically appealing shape, size, and look. During your appointment, one of our plastic surgeons will discuss the options that are suitable for you.

What are the consequences of not exchanging my implants or holding off on the surgery?

If breast implants aren’t removed or replaced after the recommended time period, there is a much greater risk for them to rupture, leak, or develop a capsular contracture. This can lead to a less-than-ideal aesthetic, scar tissue, or hardened breasts.

I don’t think I want implants anymore, but I also don’t want to return to my natural size. Are there alternatives to an implant exchange that will still give me a fuller look in the chest?

Yes. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a fat transfer procedure at Forma Plastic Surgery, where we can harvest unwanted or excess fat from another area of the body and transfer it to the breasts for an enhanced look compared to your natural bust.

Is the recovery period for a breast implant exchange longer than the initial implant surgery?

The recovery period for a breast implant exchange is often similar to, or slightly shorter than, the recovery period for the initial breast augmentation surgery. This can vary by individual and the specifics of the procedure.

Can a breast implant exchange procedure be combined with other procedures?

Yes, a breast implant exchange is often combined with complementary procedures like a breast lift, depending on your needs and your Forma Plastic Surgery practitioner’s recommendations.

How can I maintain my results after a breast implant exchange?

Maintaining a stable weight, leading a healthy lifestyle, and regularly examining your breasts can help maintain your results. Additionally, follow-up appointments with your surgeon at our Scottsdale, AZ, facility can help ensure your implants are aging well without complications.

What are the most common breast augmentation complications?

The most common breast augmentation complications can include capsular contracture caused by excessive scar tissue, implant rupture or leakage, visible rippling, asymmetry, and changes in nipple sensation. Risks may vary depending on whether a patient has silicone breast implants or saline implants, as well as the condition of their existing breast implants. As with any surgical procedure, factors such as healing response, implant placement, and surgical technique can influence outcomes and the likelihood of complications.

When is breast implant removal the most suitable option?

When considering breast implant exchange, Scottsdale patients may find that complete removal is the best option if implants are causing ongoing discomfort, health concerns, or no longer align with aesthetic goals. In some cases, patients may choose removal instead of new implants if their preferences have changed since their initial augmentation or if maintaining implants no longer supports their desired outcome. For many women, implant removal offers relief from complications and the opportunity to pursue a more natural breast appearance.