Changing breast implants
After a breast augmentation you might need to change your breast implants. The reason may be a change in your breast shape following pregnancy, a change in weight or the natural aging of your figure. The appearance of a periprosthetic capsulitis or a rupture of the prostheses are other situations which require a change of breast prostheses.
In certain cases, this intervention may be covered by your health insurance, particularly in the event of a shell or prosthetic rupture. A pre-operative consultation with a plastic surgeon allows you to assess your problem. An ultrasound can guide the surgeon in the diagnosis.
The change of breast prosthesis can be associated with a complementary intervention to improve the aesthetic result. A breast pexy (or breast lift) can be performed at the same time. In other cases, a breast lipofilling may be performed. The goal is to obtain the most natural aesthetic result.
FAQs
– How do I know if I have a ruptured breast prosthesis? If in doubt, come and consult us. We will examine you and request a breast ultrasound which will allow us to make the diagnosis. Other examinations, notably an MRI, may be carried out in case of doubt.
– How do I know if I have a case? In the event of a shell, you will feel an induration of the implant compared to the other side. Sometimes you may feel unusual pain. If in doubt, a consultation with your plastic surgeon is advisable. He will examine you and order a breast ultrasound which will make the diagnosis. Other examinations, notably an MRI, may be carried out in case of doubt.
-After how many years may I need changing breast implants? There is no one right answer to this question. A consultation every 1-2 years with your surgeon is desirable. If you have no symptoms, are happy with the shape and volume of your breast and have regular consultations with your plastic surgeon, there is no reason to change the prostheses.
– Does my health insurance cover changing breast prostheses? Yes, in general, in the event of a rupture or periprosthetic shell.
– What should I do if I no longer want breast prostheses? You have several options. If you have enough breast tissue, in some cases the prostheses can be removed. In other situations, a breast pexy can also be considered to improve the aesthetic result. Finally, if you don’t have enough, we can discuss breast lipofilling. It is best to discuss alternatives with your plastic surgeon.
Change of breast implants after periprosthetic capsulitis (photo of before and after the procedure)
