Results: 3 Months
Recovery Time: 7 - 14 DaysProcedure Time: 2 Hours
COST ON CONSULTATION
Pain Level: Moderate
Results: Permanent
Medically reviewed by Dr Kam Singh Bsc(Hons), MRCGP, MBCAM
Medical Advisory Committee for London Private Hospital
Last Reviewed Dec 16th 2025
Breast implant replacement, also known as breast revision surgery or re-augmentation, involves removing existing breast implants and replacing them with new ones. Breast implants are not designed to last indefinitely. Over time, they can change in shape, firmness, or structural integrity, which may affect both appearance and comfort. Some patients also notice changes in breast symmetry or implant positioning as the surrounding tissue naturally evolves.
Alongside implant-related changes, your body itself may change. Factors such as ageing, pregnancy, hormonal shifts, and weight fluctuations can all influence breast volume and skin elasticity. As a result, implants that once felt well-suited to your figure may no longer align with your current body shape or personal preferences. In other cases, aesthetic goals simply change with time. Breast implant replacement offers a safe and effective way to adapt your results to reflect how you look and feel today.
A breast revision procedure also allows patients to benefit from advances in implant technology. Modern breast implants are rigorously tested, medically regulated, and designed to offer a more natural look and feel compared to older generations. During your consultation, your surgeon will explain the available options and help you choose implants that suit your anatomy and long-term goals, in line with the hospital’s commitment to patient safety, transparency, and clinical excellence outlined on our About Us page.
At London Private Hospital, breast implant replacement is always guided by patient choice and medical suitability. Whether you are considering a size change, correcting an issue, or exploring implant removal, our experienced cosmetic surgeons provide honest advice and personalised treatment plans. Our hospital-grade facilities and private aftercare ensure you feel supported throughout your surgical journey.
Breast implant replacement is suitable for patients who wish to address concerns following a previous breast augmentation, including:
Breast revision surgery may also be recommended to improve symmetry, restore softness, or refresh breast appearance many years after the original procedure. In some cases, implant replacement may be combined with other procedures offered within our breast surgery services to achieve a balanced and natural-looking result.
Breast implant replacement surgery is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety. Whenever possible, the surgeon will use the original incision site to minimise additional scarring. Depending on your individual anatomy and surgical plan, alternative incision locations may be considered, including:
The existing implants are carefully removed, and the surrounding implant pocket is assessed. If scar tissue is present, it may be treated or removed to optimise the final shape and feel of the breasts. The new implants are then placed and positioned precisely to achieve symmetry and proportion. Once complete, the incisions are closed and dressed. Surgery typically takes between 2 and 3 hours and is carried out in our fully accredited operating theatres, which meet the highest standards for safety and care within our state-of-the-art facilities.
After surgery, you will be monitored in recovery while the anaesthesia wears off. It is normal to feel tired, sore, or tight across the chest during the first few days. Pain relief will be prescribed to manage discomfort effectively.
Swelling and bruising are expected and gradually subside over the following weeks. Careful adherence to post-operative instructions plays an important role in achieving optimal results. Patients are generally advised to:
Most patients return to light work within a week, although recovery timelines vary. Throughout this period, our dedicated team provides structured follow-up and guidance as part of our comprehensive patient aftercare programme.
No. Surgery is the only way to replace breast implants or alter their size, shape, or position.
Yes. Many patients choose to replace older implants with newer options that are designed to look and feel more natural.
Yes. Both upsizing and downsizing are possible. If you choose smaller implants, a breast uplift may be recommended to manage excess skin.
Yes. Breast implant replacement can be safely combined with other breast or body procedures following a thorough consultation.
Results are long-lasting, but natural changes related to ageing, weight fluctuations, and hormones may still occur over time.
Most patients rest for at least one week. Strenuous activity should be avoided for six weeks unless advised otherwise by your surgeon.
Yes. Implant removal alone is an option, though some patients benefit from a breast lift to maintain shape and firmness.
Implants older than ten years or showing signs of damage should be assessed. Your surgeon will advise based on imaging and physical examination.
In most cases, scarring is similar to the original procedure, as surgeons aim to reuse existing incision lines.
Temporary changes in sensation can occur, but feeling often returns as healing progresses.
Flying is usually discouraged immediately after surgery. Patients are commonly advised to wait 2–3 months, particularly for long-haul travel.
Patients must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, provided you are medically suitable for surgery.
Common signs include changes in breast shape, firmness, discomfort, visible rippling, or asymmetry. Ruptured implants or capsular contracture may also indicate the need for breast implant replacement. A specialist consultation within our wider breast surgery services can determine whether revision surgery is recommended.
Modern breast implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they are not considered lifetime devices. Many patients keep their implants for 10–15 years or longer, provided there are no complications and regular check-ups are maintained.
Not always. However, if there is excess skin or breast sagging due to ageing, pregnancy, or weight changes, combining implant replacement with a breast uplift (mastopexy) can help restore firmness and achieve a more youthful breast contour.
Yes. Advances in implant technology mean newer implants often provide a softer, more natural look and feel compared to older generations.
When performed by experienced surgeons in accredited facilities, breast implant replacement is considered very safe. At London Private Hospital, patient care follows the highest clinical standards outlined on our About Us page.
In some cases, ultrasound or MRI scans are recommended to assess implant integrity, particularly for older implants or when symptoms are present.
Financing your breast revision surgery does not have to break the bank! At London Private Hospital, we offer several flexible options to help you finance your aesthetic goals. Private Surgeon Consultation FREE 30 minutes of dedicated time Complete health and goal assessment Thorough examination to determine suitability Detailed explanation of the surgical process Breast Implant Replacement Surgery Starting from £[amount]
