Breast implants are not designed to last forever. Although they don’t have an official expiry date, they can wear down over time, increasing the risk of issues like implant rupture, rippling, or changes in shape. Many women also choose to replace their implants for aesthetic reasons, such as altering size, switching implant types, or updating older implants.
If you’re considering breast implant replacement, understanding the cost is an important part of planning. At Centre for Surgery, we offer transparent pricing that covers all aspects of your care — from your initial consultation to post-operative follow-ups. We offer flexible financing options to make the procedure more affordable, including interest-free payment plans through Chrysalis Finance.
What Is Breast Implant Replacement?
Breast implant replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing your existing breast implants and inserting new ones. Some patients choose to replace their implants due to complications such as implant rupture, leakage, or visible rippling under the skin. In other cases, patients may wish to change the look of their breasts by opting for implants of a different size, shape, or material. Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime — over time, the natural ageing process, changes in body weight, pregnancy, or the breakdown of implant materials can lead to changes in how the implants look or feel.
RELATED: How Do I Know When My Breast Implants Need Replacing?
How Much is Breast Implant Replacement Surgery at Centre for Surgery?
At Centre for Surgery, prices for implant replacement start from £4,000. However, the total cost can vary depending on your individual requirements. For example, if you need a capsulectomy — a procedure to remove scar tissue (capsular contracture) that has formed around the implants — prices start from £7,000.
Centre for Surgery offers interest-free financing for up to 12 months, allowing you to spread the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly payments. Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive, covering hospital and theatre fees, surgeon’s fees, anaesthetist and anaesthesia costs, the cost of new implants, and comprehensive aftercare including follow-up appointments.
Benefits of Breast Implant Replacement
One of the most significant advantages of breast implant replacement is the ability to correct complications associated with older implants — replacing damaged implants restores fullness to the chest, bringing back a more youthful, balanced appearance. Another key benefit is the opportunity to modify the size of the implants, whether increasing for a fuller look or reducing for a more natural silhouette.
For those experiencing capsular contracture, implant replacement offers an effective solution. During the procedure, the surgeon can perform a capsulectomy to remove the problematic scar tissue, relieving discomfort and improving the natural look and feel of the breasts. In cases where saline implants have led to visible rippling on the skin, replacement with silicone implants can significantly improve the appearance.
RELATED: Silicone vs Saline Breast Implants
Is Breast Implant Replacement Cheaper Than Initial Breast Augmentation?
Breast implant replacement surgery is generally similar in cost to your initial breast augmentation. However, the price can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. If there are complications, such as capsular contracture, additional surgery will be required to remove the scar tissue, which can increase the overall cost. A detailed price breakdown will be provided after an in-person consultation with one of our expert breast surgeons.
Am I Suitable for Breast Implant Replacement?
Breast implant replacement is suitable for individuals who are dissatisfied with their current implants, whether due to medical complications or aesthetic concerns. The best candidates are those who are in good overall health, have a stable, healthy weight (ideally a BMI below 30), are fully healed from their initial breast augmentation, have realistic expectations about the results, and have a clear understanding of why they want the procedure.
RELATED: How Often Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?
The Breast Implant Replacement Procedure
Breast implant replacement is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon begins by making an incision, typically in the same location as your original breast augmentation scar — often along the breast crease (inframammary fold), but it can also be beneath the nipple (periareolar) or in the armpit (transaxillary). Using the existing scar helps minimise additional scarring.
Once the incision is made, the surgeon carefully removes the old implants. If necessary, they will also perform a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. The new implants are then inserted, either above or below the chest muscle, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Types of Incisions for Breast Implant Replacement
The type of incision used often mirrors that of your original augmentation to reduce additional scarring. Common options include the Inframammary Incision along the natural crease under the breast, the Periareolar Incision around the edge of the areola, and the Transaxillary Incision placed in the natural folds of the underarm.
Recovery After Implant Exchange
In the first few days after surgery, it’s common to experience soreness, swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness around the chest area. Most patients feel well enough to return to work within 7 to 10 days. Light activities can generally be resumed after 2 to 4 weeks, but you should avoid exercises or movements that place strain on the chest muscles. For more vigorous activities, waiting until you are fully healed is essential — typically around six weeks.
What Procedures Can Be Combined with Breast Implant Replacement?
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift combined with implant replacement is ideal for patients who wish to achieve a perkier, more youthful contour while replacing their implants. While implants add volume, the breast lift addresses issues like drooping nipples and stretched skin, ensuring the new implants sit higher and more naturally on the chest.
Fat Transfer (Hybrid Breast Augmentation)
Hybrid breast augmentation allows for a customised, natural-looking enhancement. The implants provide the primary volume and structure, while fat transfer smooths out contours, improves symmetry, and softens the edges of the implants for a more seamless, natural feel.
Breast Implant Replacement Cost FAQs
How Much Does Breast Implant Replacement Cost in the UK?
At Centre for Surgery, the starting price for breast implant replacement is from £4,000. The final cost can vary depending on factors such as the type of implants chosen, the complexity of the procedure, and whether additional surgeries are required.
Does Private Medical Insurance Cover the Cost?
In most cases, UK private medical insurance does not cover the cost of breast implant replacement because it is typically viewed as a cosmetic procedure. However, if the replacement is required due to medical complications, some insurance providers may consider partial coverage. It’s always best to check directly with your insurance provider to confirm.
How Long Should I Wait Before Having Breast Implant Replacement Surgery?
Generally, you should wait at least six months after your original surgery before undergoing breast implant replacement, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances. This ensures that your implants have fully settled into position and any swelling has subsided.
Will I Need to Replace My Breast Implants Again in the Future?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Many people choose to have their implants replaced after 10 to 15 years due to natural wear and tear, or to change the size or shape of their breasts as their personal preferences evolve. Regular check-ups with your surgeon can help monitor the condition of your implants over time.
What Are the Risks of Breast Implant Replacement Surgery?
The risks are similar to those associated with your initial augmentation — potential complications include changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, haematoma, capsular contracture, implant rotation, implant rupture, and aesthetic concerns such as rippling or wrinkling.
Why Choose Centre for Surgery for Breast Implant Replacement?
At Centre for Surgery, we are proud to be a leading plastic surgery clinic in London, specialising in breast procedures including complex implant replacements and revisions. Our team of specialist breast surgeons have extensive experience managing everything from straightforward implant exchanges to complex revision cases. We use the latest surgical techniques and premium-quality implants to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results tailored to your individual goals.
For more information, visit our About Us page and Meet the Team section. We offer flexible finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance.
📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849 | 📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com | 📍 Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN | Baker Street Clinic Information
For more insights into breast surgery, visit our plastic surgery blog and browse our clinic FAQs.
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