Let’s be honest—breast implants aren’t meant to last forever. While many women enjoy their results for years (or even decades), time, lifestyle changes, or simple wear and tear can lead to the need for a revision.
If you’ve been wondering, "Is something off with my implants?"—you’re not alone. In our practice, implant revision is one of our most common procedures, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.
In this post, we’ll cover:
✔ The most common reasons women need revisions
✔ Early warning signs you shouldn’t ignore
✔ What the process looks like (it’s easier than you think!)
✔ How to decide if it’s time for a refresh
No scare tactics—just straight talk from a board-certified surgeon who’s helped hundreds of women through this process.
First Things First: Why Do Implants Need Revision?
Implants are durable, but they’re not indestructible. Here’s what can happen over time:
1. Capsular Contracture (When Scar Tissue Tightens)
- What it feels like: Breasts become hard, painful, or misshapen.
- Why it happens: Your body’s natural scar tissue around the implant tightens.
- Fix: Removing scar tissue and replacing the implant.
2. Implant Rupture (Silicone or Saline Leakage)
- Silicone rupture: Often silent—you may need an MRI to detect it.
- Saline rupture: Deflates noticeably (you’ll see a size change).
- Fix: Remove and replace the implant.
3. "Bottoming Out" or Shifting Position
- What it looks like: Implants sit too low, nipples point upward.
- Why it happens: Weak support tissues or aging skin.
- Fix: Repositioning with internal sutures or a supportive mesh.
4. Size Regret ("Too Big" or "Too Small")
- Common triggers: Weight changes, lifestyle shifts, or just evolving preferences.
- Fix: Swap for a different size or even remove implants entirely.
5. Rippling or Wrinkling (Visible Wrinkles in the Implant)
- Most common with: Saline implants or very thin natural breast tissue.
- Fix: Switching to silicone or adding fat grafting for coverage.
Early Signs You Might Need a Revision
Not sure if what you’re experiencing is "normal" or a red flag? Here’s when to consider a consultation:
Physical Changes:
- Sudden asymmetry (one breast looks different)
- Pain or discomfort (especially if new or worsening)
- Hardening (breasts feel unnaturally firm)
- Visible rippling (you can see wrinkles through the skin)
Aesthetic Concerns:
- Implants look "too high" or "too low"
- Cleavage doesn’t look right anymore
- Skin stretching or sagging around implants
Lifestyle Shifts:
- You’ve had significant weight loss/gain
- You’re more active now (and implants feel cumbersome)
- Your taste has changed (you prefer a more natural look now)
Real Patient Example:
"After 15 years, my saline implants started rippling. I could see waves in my breasts when I bent over—that’s when I knew it was time for an update."
"How Long Do Implants Last?" (The Truth About Lifespan)
You’ve probably heard:
- "Implants last 10 years." (Not always true—many last longer.)
- "You must replace them every decade." (Only if there’s an issue.)
Our stance:
- No expiration date, but monitor them like you would a car—regular check-ups help.
- MRI screenings (for silicone implants) every few years after the 10-year mark.
- Revision is elective unless there’s a problem.
What Does Implant Revision Surgery Involve?
Step 1: Consultation
We’ll assess:
✔ Implant position
✔ Tissue quality
✔ Your goals (same size? smaller? remove entirely?)
Step 2: Surgery (Usually Quicker Than the First Time!)
- Typical time: 1–2 hours (vs. 2+ for initial augmentation).
- Anesthesia: Usually general (you’ll be asleep).
- Recovery: Often easier than the first round (you’ve been through it before!).
Step 3: Recovery Timeline
- First 48 hours: Rest, light walking.
- 1 week: Back to desk work.
- 4–6 weeks: Return to exercise.
Bonus: Many women combine revisions with a breast lift for a perkier look.
How to Decide If It’s Time for a Revision
Ask yourself:
- Are my implants causing me physical discomfort?
- Do I dislike how they look now?
- Has my lifestyle changed enough that my implants don’t fit it anymore?
If you answered yes to any of these, it’s worth a consultation.
Why Choose a Surgeon Who Specializes in Revisions?
Revision surgery is more complex than the first go-round. You want someone who:
✔ Knows how to handle scar tissue
✔ Understands implant options (silicone vs. saline, round vs. teardrop)
✔ Can combine procedures (like a lift) if needed
Needing a revision doesn’t mean your first surgery ‘failed.’ Bodies change, implants age, and preferences evolve—that’s life!
If you’re noticing changes in your implants, don’t wait until it’s a bigger problem. Early intervention often means an easier fix.
Ready to explore your options? Contact us for a consultation—we’ll help you decide what’s right for you.
Have questions? Drop them below or DM us. We’re happy to help!
