Revision Surgery vs. Implant Removal: What’s Right for You?

While breast revision surgery in New Orleans may sometimes involve removing breast implants, it doesn’t always. That means breast revision and breast implant removal are not necessarily interchangeable terms. In some cases, breast revision is used to replace damaged or ruptured implants, to correct an abnormality or asymmetry, or to swap one type or size of breast implants with another. Implant removal, on the other hand, refers to removing breast implants — which may be a strategy for relieving unwanted symptoms or simply updating your look based on a change in personal preferences. 

Here, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark W. Stalder and our knowledgeable team at Stalder Plastic Surgery share helpful information on how implant removal vs. revision compares, when each may be recommended, and which one may be right for you. 

 

What does breast revision mean? 

Breast revision surgery is a broad term that refers to a secondary breast procedure performed after a previous breast augmentation or implant-based breast reconstruction surgery. Revision surgery is customized based on the patient's concerns and goals and may address cosmetic issues, implant-related complications, or changes that have occurred over time. Breast revision surgery may be used to:  

• Replace older implants 
• Exchange implant size or type 
• Correct implant malposition 
• Improve breast symmetry 
• Address capsular contracture 
• Treat implant rupture or leakage 
• Enhance a previous surgical result 

Because breast revision is highly individualized, no two procedures are exactly alike. 

 

Are implants removed during breast revision surgery? 

In many breast revision procedures, implants are temporarily removed and then replaced with new implants during the same surgery. This is common when patients want a different implant size or type, or when a damaged implant needs replacement. However, implant removal during revision surgery does not necessarily mean the patient is choosing to remove her implants indefinitely. In many cases, removal is simply one step in the process of achieving an updated or improved result. 

 

When is explant surgery recommended? 

Explant surgery refers specifically to breast implant removal. Some women choose explant surgery because of a change in personal preferences, while others may be experiencing implant-related concerns or complications. Situations where explant surgery may be considered include:  

• Desire to return to a more natural breast size 
• Implant rupture 
• Capsular contracture 
• Discomfort related to implants 
• Changes in lifestyle or aesthetic goals 
• Concerns about long-term implant maintenance 
• Personal preference to remove implants 

In some cases, breast implant removal may be combined with a breast lift to address stretched skin and help reshape the breasts after explant. 

 

Should I get my implants removed or replaced? 

The answer depends on your goals, anatomy, and reasons for considering additional breast surgery. Patients who still enjoy the look and feel of breast implants but want adjustments to size, shape, or implant type may be better candidates for breast revision with implant replacement. Patients who no longer wish to have implants may prefer explant surgery. Factors that often influence the decision include:  

• Current satisfaction with implants 
• Presence of implant complications 
• Desired breast size 
• Amount of natural breast tissue 
• Skin elasticity 
• Long-term aesthetic goals 

During consultation, Dr. Stalder can discuss the advantages and considerations associated with each option and help determine which approach aligns best with your needs. 

 

Will I have new scars after secondary breast surgery, like revision or replacement? 

Any surgical procedure involving incisions will result in some degree of scarring. However, one advantage of breast revision surgery is that Dr. Stalder can often utilize existing incision locations whenever appropriate. Whether you’ll have new scars after breast revision depends on the specifics of the procedure being performed, including whether implants are being removed, replaced, repositioned, or combined with additional procedures such as a breast lift. During your consultation, Dr. Stalder will explain where incisions may be placed and what you can realistically expect regarding scar appearance and healing, so you can prepare accordingly and go into your procedure with confidence and peace of mind. 

 

Need breast implants replaced or removed? Consider breast revision surgery in New Orleans 

Whether you're considering implant removal, implant replacement, or another type of breast revision procedure, understanding your options is the first step toward making a confident decision. At Stalder Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark W. Stalder provides personalized treatment plans designed to help patients achieve results that align with their health, comfort, and aesthetic goals. Contact our New Orleans, LA plastic surgeon’s office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about breast revision surgery and implant removal options.