If your breast implants are over 10–15 years old, it may be time to consider removal or replacement. At Modern Surgical Arts in Highlands Ranch, CO, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in breast implant exchange procedures using the latest breast implants to ensure patient safety and preserve or enhance the results of a previous breast implant surgery.
What is an Implant Exchange?
Breast implant exchange, sometimes called breast implant revision, is a surgical procedure that removes your current breast implants and replaces them with new ones. Whether your goal is to update aging implants, change your breast size or shape, address a rupture or capsular contracture, or simply benefit from advances in implant technology, this procedure can help you achieve your aesthetic goals safely and effectively. Implant exchange can also be combined with a breast lift procedure or other plastic surgery procedures for more comprehensive results.
At Modern Surgical Arts, we offer the newest generation of Mentor® and Allergan® implants, which are designed for a softer, more natural feel that mimics the natural breast tissue. These innovative implants also have greater durability, which minimizes the risk of an implant rupture from silicone implants or leaking saline implants.
Am I a Good Candidate for Implant Exchange?
Although patients who undergo breast augmentation surgery can expect long-lasting results, implants are not permanent. If you have had your breast implants for more than 10 years, we recommend that you schedule an appointment so your breasts and the quality of your implants can be examined.
The best candidates for breast implant removal and exchange are healthy adults with realistic expectations and a commitment to following all pre- and post-surgical instructions. An implant exchange can be especially beneficial for patients experiencing discomfort after an initial breast implant surgery. Those who simply wish to replace old implants, increase or decrease the size of their implant, or change the type of implant (saline vs silicone) are also great candidates.
How to Prepare for an Implant Exchange
Preparation for a breast implant exchange begins with a comprehensive consultation at Modern Surgical Arts. Your surgeon will review your medical history, assess the condition of your current implants, and discuss implant options tailored to your desired outcome. Patients may be asked to complete certain lab tests or medical evaluations to ensure they are in good health and ready for surgery. Your surgeon may also advise you to adjust or temporarily stop medications that could interfere with the surgery or healing process. Since you will have limited activity for the first few days of recovery, it is important to arrange for transportation home and have someone available to help during this initial healing period.
Implant Exchange Procedure
The implant exchange procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia in our state-of-the-art surgical facilities. Your surgeon will typically make an incision over the existing scar to prevent additional scarring. This incision may be placed in the crease of the breast fold, around the nipple-areolar complex, or in the armpit. The implants will be removed through this incision, and new implants will be carefully placed in the breast. If scar tissue is present, this will be carefully removed to ensure a smooth texture and soft, natural feel. The incisions are then sutured and bandaged.
Breast revision surgery with implants typically takes 2-3 hours, and patients will be monitored in a comfortable recovery room for an additional hour before returning home.
Implant Exchange Recovery & Results
After an implant exchange procedure, mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected in the days following surgery. Most patients are able to return to light activities within a week, but should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks as directed by their surgical team. Visible improvements in breast shape, feel, and position are often noticeable soon after the procedure, with final results becoming more apparent as healing progresses.
With the latest Mentor® and Allergan® implants, you’ll enjoy natural-looking breasts and added peace of mind with their advanced safety features. By following all post-operative instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, patients can enjoy long-lasting results that boost their body confidence.
Schedule a Consultation
If your breast implants need an update, schedule a consultation today for implant exchange in Highlands Ranch, CO, at Modern Surgical Arts. Our board-certified cosmetic and plastic surgeons are dedicated to helping you achieve natural, beautiful results with the latest in breast implant technology.
Dr. Kamran Dastoury is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon with advanced training in both maxillofacial and aesthetic surgery, bringing unmatched expertise to every patient he serves. After earning his dental and medical degrees from USC and LSU, he went on to complete over seven years of intensive surgical training, including a fellowship in facial and body cosmetic surgery under the mentorship of world-renowned leaders in the field. His specialties include facelifts, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, liposuction, and body contouring—always delivered with a highly personalized approach that prioritizes safety, artistry, and natural-looking results. Beyond his surgical excellence, Dr. Dastoury is deeply committed to advancing the field through research, teaching, and global mission work, making him a trusted and compassionate choice for patients seeking transformative results.