Implant Replacement

Breast Augmentation Dr. Alexandre Mendonça Munhoz Dr. Alexandre Munhoz AMM Clinica Protese de Mama Mastopexia Silicone

AMM Prof. Alexandre Mendonça Munhoz Aesthetic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery Clinic

Implant replacement is a corrective surgery performed on patients who already have breast implants but now wish to replace them—either due to aesthetic dissatisfaction, aging implants, or complications like capsular contracture, rippling, or rupture. The approach depends on your breast condition: a simple exchange may be possible if the skin remains firm and the breast position is ideal, but if sagging or skin laxity is present, a lift (mastopexy) is often combined with the replacement. This procedure restores breast shape, comfort, and confidence.

What You Need to Know...

Initial Consultation

During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the condition of your current implants, your breast tissue, and any complications. Images exams (i.e. MRI) may be necessary. You’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, the need for a lift, the possibility to use the same previous scar and what surgical plan best suits your case.

Incision / Scars

When possible, existing incisions are reused to minimize additional scarring. However, if there is sagging or significant correction needed, larger incisions such as vertical (lollipop), “L” shaped, or inverted-T (anchor) may be necessary to reshape and support the breast.

Implant Types

New implants are chosen based on current aesthetic preferences and safety standards. New generation of Smooth implants (SmoothSilk) offers a protection for a capsular contracture. Options include modern cohesive silicone gel, and either round or ergonomic shapes. The goal is a natural, harmonious look tailored to your body.

Anesthesia

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the surgery. The anesthesia procedure can be similar to a conventional breast augmentation or a augmentation-mastopexy.

New Implant Pocket

If there are issues like capsular contracture or implant rupture, the internal pocket where the implant sits is carefully revised or replaced. This helps create a healthier environment for the new implant and improves long-term results.

Postoperative Care

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the revision. Most patients wear a surgical bra, avoid lifting, and follow detailed care instructions. Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and ensure the new implants settle properly.

Dr. Alexandre Munhoz Prof. Alexandre Mendonça Munhoz Prótese de Mama Mastopexia Breast Augmentation Silicone Reconstrução Mamária Breast Reconstruction Clinica AMM Cirurgia Plástica Enxerto de gordura Cirurgia da Mama Híbrida Hybrid Breast Augmentation

Implant replacement has become an increasingly common surgery, especially as millions of women worldwide have had implants placed in recent decades. According to data from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), more than 1.6 million breast augmentation surgeries are performed annually worldwide. It is estimated that, since the 1990s, tens of millions of women have undergone breast implant placement. Over time, it is natural for many of these patients to develop changes such as rupture, capsular contracture, rippling, or even sagging breasts, leading to the need for revision/replacement surgeries. In the US alone, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) records more than 150,000 implant replacement surgeries per year, a number that grows as the implant population ages. Awareness of this need is essential to maintaining health and aesthetic results over the years.

Dr. Alexandre Munhoz Prof.Dr. Alexandre Mendonça Munhoz Clinica AMM Cirurgia Plástica

Alexandre M. Munhoz,

M.D., PhD.

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Clinical Examples

Here you can see some illustrative clinical cases of implant replacement. This section is only to illustrate the before and after of each surgery. Remember that each anatomy is unique and results may vary according to each patient.

Pamela Andrade, 47ys.

Dr. Alexandre Munhoz Prof.Dr. Alexandre Mendonça Munhoz Prótese de Mama Silicone Mastopexia Breast Augmentation Clinica AMM Cirurgia Plástica Reconstrução Mamária Breast Reconstruction

"Do I need to replace my implants after 10 years?"

Not necessarily. If everything is fine during the exams and there are no complaints, the implants can stay in longer. But it's best to have regular checkups. Implants with older technologies have a shorter lifespan (10 years or less), while more modern ones last up to 20-25 years.

Tertiary Breast Augmentation
Subfascial Periareolar Hybrid (3D analysis with Arbrea platform)

"After years with my old implants, I finally decided to replace them. The difference is unbelievable—the shape is more natural, and I feel more comfortable than ever."

Anna Paula (6 months after implant replacement using the inframammary incision, 295 cc smooth silk round implants).