Implant replacement
The key facts
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How does an implant replacement work?
Over the years, silicone implants – whether inserted for aesthetic reasons or as part of breast reconstruction – may need to be replaced. The most common reason for this is what is known as capsular contracture: A natural reaction of the body in which a connective tissue capsule forms around the implant. Over time, this can harden, cause pain and even change the shape of the breast.
The exact causes of capsular contracture are not yet fully understood. When patients experience symptoms or notice changes, surgery is usually necessary. In the procedure, the implant is removed, the capsule is partially or completely resected and, depending on the patient's wishes, a new implant is inserted.
During an implant replacement, the breast can also be reshaped or optimised depending on the individual circumstances – for example, by means of fat transfer (lipofilling) to adjust the volume or through a lifting procedure (mastopexy) if the tissue has started to sag. Both procedures can be combined with the reinsertion of implants to achieve a natural, balanced result. Existing scars, for example in the crease under the breast, can usually be reused for the replacement.
About the treatment
Patients who have had silicone implants inserted previously may find they need to replace them at a later date – usually as a result of capsular contracture.
Typical areas of application
- In cases of capsular contracture, accompanied by symptoms or visible deformation
- Ruptured (torn) or leaking implants
- Desire for a change in breast shape or size
- When implants have displaced or rotated
- Ageing of implants (e.g. after 10 to 15 years)
- Visible wrinkling or irregularities (rippling)
- Pain or tightness in the chest area
When is it recommended?
- In cases of medically diagnosed capsular contracture (from Baker stage III–IV)
- In the event of proven implant rupture or defect
- For functional complaints or aesthetically disturbing changes
- In response to a medical examination as part of the recommended aftercare
- At the patient's request to optimise shape, size or material
- If rare complications such as BIA-ALCL are suspected (after evaluation)
"Every woman undergoing breast reconstruction deserves to have individualised and natural results – my goal is to fulfil this wish."
FAQs
What will the sensation in my breast be like after implant replacement?
After implant replacement, the sensation in the breast may be temporarily altered. Temporary numbness, feelings of tightness or increased sensitivity often occur immediately after the operation. These changes usually subside within a few weeks to months. In most cases, sensation returns to normal over time, but slight differences in sensitivity – especially in the nipple area – may persist in rare cases.
What scars will I have?
The incision for implant replacement is usually made in the crease under the breast. In certain cases, e.g. if a breast lift is performed at the same time, additional incisions may be necessary, for example to reposition the nipple. These then run, for example, vertically to the crease under the breast or around the areola ("scar-minimising technique"). The final scarring is individual and depends heavily on skin type and wound healing – however, the scars usually fade significantly over time.
Is the procedure covered by health insurance?
Implant replacement may be necessary for both medical and aesthetic reasons. Whether the costs are covered by health insurance depends on the individual circumstances. If there is a medical necessity – for example, in the case of capsular contracture, implant rupture or symptoms such as pain and deformation – health insurance companies usually cover all or part of the costs. This applies in particular if the implants were used within a breast reconstruction procedure. In most cases, a medical justification and prior approval of costs are required.
However, if the procedure is undertaken for purely aesthetic reasons, such as the desire for a different size or shape without any medical symptoms, the costs are not usually covered by health insurance. We would be happy to advise you in a personal consultation regarding your individual situation and, if necessary, assist you in clarifying matters with your health insurance provider.
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