Capsulectomy / Implant Exchange

Modern breast implants are strong, safe and durable and last for many years. Despite this, there are a number of reasons why women may chose to change or replace their implants. Some women may wish to change the shape and size of their breasts, for others the implants may rupture, or form a tight capsule of scar tissue which can distort the implant and cause pain. When implants are exchanged Mr West will remove some or all of the capsule around the implants.

About the surgery

At your consultation, Mr West will discuss your concerns and what you hope to achieve from surgery. Following an examination of your chest, Mr West can suggest the best plan to achieve the results you want. This could include a number of different procedures including exchanging the implants, fat grafting and a breast lift.

Indication

Patients wishing to change their implants

Anesthetic

General

Downtime

2 weeks

Results

Improvements in size shape and feel can be achieved.

Anatomy

Implants along with the surrounding capsule are removed and replaced with new ones

Duration

2 hours

Exercise

4 – 6 weeks

Price

from £7495

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. You will meet the consultant anaesthetist who will discuss this aspect of the operation with you. Mr West will draw markings on your chest to plan procedure and the incisions. Usually the scar from previous surgery will be used. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.

Once in theatre and asleep, Mr West will make small cuts in the crease under your breast to find your implants and the capsule surrounding them. Part of the capsule will be removed and a new pocket for the replacement implants created. When the new implants have been inserted Mr West will check to ensure he is happy with the size and shape of the breasts. The incision is closed with absorbable surtures and covered with steristrips and a small dressing. A support garment is put on to provide comfort and support as the wounds heal.

Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and will be looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.

Frequently asked questions

How are breast implants selected?

Mr West only uses implants from manufacturers he trusts, backed up with years of follow up data on safety and durability. At your consultation Mr West will assess your breasts, your chest dimensions and your body shape. He will discuss your aims from enlargemtn surgery and how best to achieve this. Mr West will then discuss the size and shape of implants to get the right one for you.

Do you need to know the size of my current implants?

Yes. To make sure we get the correct replacement implants we need to know the size of your current ones. The surgeon/hospital that put them in should be able to provide you with this information.

Can I have my implants removed and not replaced?

Yes, however due to the reduction in volume it is likely that your breasts will look empty and drop. A breast lift (mastopexy) might help in this situation.

What are the follow up or aftercare procedures?

Initial review and wound check is usually 1-2 weeks after surgery. Further review appointment is usually made 4-6 weeks after surgery.

When can I start playing sports again?

Light activity is ok after 2 weeks, and it is important to keep your shoulders moving. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

Do implants last forever?

Breast implants are very durable and manufactured to a exceptionally high standards. However, they eventually will need replacing due to a variety of different reasons. You should therefore consider the need for, and cost of further surgery in the future.

Can I still breast feed after breast enlargement?

Yes, there is no reason why breast enlargement surgery or exchange of implants should prevent you from breast feeding.

When can I shower?

Your dressings are shower proof and therefore it is fine to shower the day after surgery. Mr West recommends dabbing your dressings dry with a towel after your shower. Baths should be avoided until the dressings have been removed.

Related Treatments

Mastopexy

Breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and lifts sagging breasts by tightening skin and repositioning the nipple. It does not increase volume but can create a fuller appearance; implants or fat grafting can be added for more volume.

Mastopexy with implants

Fat transfer to breasts

Fat transfer (fat grafting) adds natural breast volume by injecting fat taken from other body areas, also improving skin quality and treating asymmetry. It can be done alone or with procedures like augmentation or mastopexy for long-lasting, natural results.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation uses implants to enhance breast size and shape, boosting body image and self-esteem. It’s tailored to individual needs, with various implant options discussed during consultation to achieve desired results.

Related Conditions

Contracture / tight painful implant

Implant rupture

Implant rippling

Small breasts

Asymmetry / uneven breasts

Client Results

Testimonials

“After years of being self conscious about my eyes, i decided to have my upper blepharoplasty with Chris and the results are better than I had ever anticipated. The service I received before during and after the operation is unmatched. Dr west is a patient, calming and a highly skilled surgeon. If you’re thinking of going for it. Do it, you won’t regret it! Thank you again.”

“I recently had upper eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty ) with Mr Christopher West. Very experienced surgeon so I felt straight away I’m in a good hands. I had barely any bruising or swelling and the scars are so neat. Overall the results exceeded my expectations which I’m extremely grateful for! 10/10 highly recommended! Thank you.”

“I found Dr Christopher West from 3 people's recommendation and came all the way from London. The upper blepharoplasty procedure was completely painless. I had a small amount of post op bruising, but could carry on with life almost immediately after. The recovery time was around one week. Once my sutures were removed the result was immediately evident. I am extremely pleased with the results of my upper blepharoplasty, and cannot hesitate to praise the skills of Dr Christopher West. Fantastic results. I highly recommend Mr Christopher West”

“I had been researching my options for surgery for a couple of years, I'd had lots of consultations with London based surgeons, I opted for Mr West as not only had I seen his work first hand on a few friends, I liked his approach to surgery, he is very honest and if he feels you don't need something or wouldn't benefit from it he will tell you straight, he's very good at managing your expectations. After a couple of consultations I booked in with him, for an upper blepharoplasty. Mr West saw me before surgery to go over everything, he has a very calming and kind nature which definitely helps before you are about to go under the knife, I am very happy with my results, Chris is very skilled surgeon, his stitches and incisions are immaculate, and I highly recommend him to anyone who is considering surgery.”