While breast implants have been available since the 1960s, their technology has significantly improved over the decades. Changing techniques and beauty standards have led many women to a critical question regarding their appearance and lifestyle: “Should I remove my implants or exchange them for a different size or material?”
There are several motives to consult with a plastic surgeon regarding what to do with your existing breast implants. While some relate to your overall health, most are personal and specific to your preferences.
What Are the Benefits of Replacing My Implants?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that most women seeking breast revision want to resize or reposition their implants to improve their appearance or increase their comfort.
Breast tissue stretches over time, and implants can shift or migrate. Depending on your preferences, you may want to try a larger or smaller implant size or switch from saline to silicone, or vice versa. You can enjoy the benefits of an improved breast appearance with an implant exchange. You should also consider whether you want your breast revision to include other procedures, such as a breast lift.
What About Removing Breast Implants Permanently?
If you’ve become unhappy with your breasts’ shape, comfort level, or projection, you may want to remove your implants without replacing them. Your cosmetic priorities might have changed with age, meaning you no longer enjoy the enhancements you made in your 20s or 30s a decade or so later.
Some women choose to remove their implants due to health concerns. Specific brands of textured implants have a risk of implant-associated large-cell lymphoma, a rare type of cancer that develops in scar tissues surrounding implants. Others have cited breast implant illness, a disorder that can cause muscle aches, fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog.
Though extensive clinical research trials have not conclusively proven a link between breast augmentation and illness, some women may choose to have an en bloc implant removal for their peace of mind.
What Should I Expect From My Recovery?
Because revision breast surgery is a customized procedure with many variables, you will need time to heal. Since your operation is outpatient, be sure to have someone drive you home and help out for a day or two.
Swelling may persist for weeks, and Dr. Cooper advises against performing strenuous activities for at least six weeks. Even after your dressings and sutures come off and swelling has subsided, healing may continue for up to a year.
Take Charge of Your Appearance With Palm Beach Breast Surgery
If you live in the Jupiter or Palm Beach areas and want more information about breast implant revision, reach out to Dr. Cooper through our online contact form. He can explain the pros and cons of various procedures during a one-on-one consultation.