What is Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
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Breast implants replacement surgery is the surgical replacement of breast implants to enlarge the breasts. Neither saline or silicone breast implants are guaranteed to last a lifetime, so implants will need to be replaced at some later stage in almost every implant patient.
Also known as breast augmentation mammoplasty revision, the breast implants are replaced behind the breasts after an incision is made (breast implant reimplantation). *(Educational Image of placement - not a patient) |
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During the replacement procedure:
In Perth, the two main types of breast implants now used are:
Saline implants - a silicone envelope filled with varying amounts of sterile salt water (saline).
Silicone implants - a silicone envelope filled with an elastic cohesive gel.
- An incision is made, usually in the crease below the breast
- The old breast implants are removed together with most, if not all, of the scar capsule from the previous implants
- The scar capsule is sent to pathology for further testing
- Once the old implants and the capsules have been removed, a suitable pocket (space) is created for the new implants. This may be in the same layer as the previous implants or may be made in a completely new layer. This assessment will be discussed with you before the surgery and depends on multiple factors.
- Once the new pockets (spaces) are made and are satisfactory, the new implants are inserted and carefully positioned.
- The incisions are then carefully closed.
In Perth, the two main types of breast implants now used are:
Saline implants - a silicone envelope filled with varying amounts of sterile salt water (saline).
Silicone implants - a silicone envelope filled with an elastic cohesive gel.
Breast Implant Types
Shape – round or teardrop etc.
Surface - smooth vs textured.
Current recommendations are to avoid macro-textured implants of grade 3 or 4 to minimise the risk of complications. Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett will discuss the updates on this during your first consultation with him. Read updates on the latest advice on breast implants.
Placement – in front or behind the pectoralis muscle.
During breast implants surgery, Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett places implants either in front or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle. The decision regarding this is made on an individual basis and requires a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your breast shape, breast size and specific aesthetic requirements will determine this, as will the possible issues that may have arisen from your previous breast implants.
*Surgery risks listed below
Surface - smooth vs textured.
Current recommendations are to avoid macro-textured implants of grade 3 or 4 to minimise the risk of complications. Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett will discuss the updates on this during your first consultation with him. Read updates on the latest advice on breast implants.
Placement – in front or behind the pectoralis muscle.
During breast implants surgery, Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett places implants either in front or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle. The decision regarding this is made on an individual basis and requires a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your breast shape, breast size and specific aesthetic requirements will determine this, as will the possible issues that may have arisen from your previous breast implants.
*Surgery risks listed below
Why Choose to Have Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
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The key reasons women seek breast implants replacement surgery with Dr Blennerhassett are:
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There are five key things that the replaced breast implants do:
Breast Implants Replacement Surgery can be done in conjunction with a breast lift (mastopexy). This can be discussed at your consultation with Perth breast implant surgeon Dr Blennerhassett. The decision as to whether this is required needs a thorough and careful examination.
- Enlarge small breasts
- Add breast volume after weight loss or pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Even up breasts that are a different size
- Reconstruct a breast after mastectomy or injury
- Correct congenital anomalies such as tuberous breast deformity
Breast Implants Replacement Surgery can be done in conjunction with a breast lift (mastopexy). This can be discussed at your consultation with Perth breast implant surgeon Dr Blennerhassett. The decision as to whether this is required needs a thorough and careful examination.
Dr Lewis Blennerhassett, Perth Breast Implants Replacement Surgeon
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Highly experienced in this procedure, Dr Lewis Blennerhassett is a skilled Perth breast implants surgeon and respected Specialist Plastic Surgeon and has performed breast implant surgery for more than 25 years.
His breast implants replacement work is focused on being meticulous and precise, prioritising safety and standards. His breast implants surgery is performed only in fully accredited, fully equipped Perth hospitals. His anaesthetists are skilled and highly qualified. |
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His choice of implant is taken with great care. He does NOT use the macro-textured implants that have been featured in the media as being of higher risk and have been subject to overseas and local bans.
Breast implants replacement surgery offered by Dr Blennerhassett is highly individualised and based on your needs. After a comprehensive and thorough discussion with you, he will personally work with you on your operation plan.
A great communicator, he oversees all patient care, from the first consultation until full recovery.
Dr Lewis Blennerhassett (MED0001532372), registered medical practitioner
Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery
*Be aware that some local doctors performing breast implants surgery are not Specialist Plastic Surgeons.
Learn why it is important to insist on a well-trained surgeon.
Breast implants replacement surgery offered by Dr Blennerhassett is highly individualised and based on your needs. After a comprehensive and thorough discussion with you, he will personally work with you on your operation plan.
A great communicator, he oversees all patient care, from the first consultation until full recovery.
Dr Lewis Blennerhassett (MED0001532372), registered medical practitioner
Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery
*Be aware that some local doctors performing breast implants surgery are not Specialist Plastic Surgeons.
Learn why it is important to insist on a well-trained surgeon.
Does Breast Implants Replacement Surgery Require Anaesthesia?
Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett always performs his breast implants surgery under a general anaesthetic (with the patient asleep).
To ensure the prioritisation of safety and standards, his breast implants surgery is performed only in fully accredited fully equipped Perth hospitals. His anaesthetists are skilled and highly qualified.
Breast Implants Replacement Surgery Risks
From the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons - https://plasticsurgery.org.au/
Modern surgery is generally safe but does have the potential for risks and complications to occur, states the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Some possible complications and risks associated with breast surgery may include:
To ensure the prioritisation of safety and standards, his breast implants surgery is performed only in fully accredited fully equipped Perth hospitals. His anaesthetists are skilled and highly qualified.
Breast Implants Replacement Surgery Risks
From the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons - https://plasticsurgery.org.au/
Modern surgery is generally safe but does have the potential for risks and complications to occur, states the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Some possible complications and risks associated with breast surgery may include:
- Surgical risks such as bleeding or infection
- Fluid accumulation around the implant after surgery
- Allergic reaction to suture materials, tape adhesive or other medical materials and lotions
- Changes in breast and nipple sensation
- Temporary or permanent areas of numbness
- Wrinkling of the skin over the implant
- Keloid, or lumpy scar tissue, which is pink, raised and irregularly shaped. These scars may be inflamed and itchy. There are several possible sites for the incision. Discuss this with your surgeon
- Capsular contracture, where firm scar tissue forms around the implant causing it to lose shape and softness
- Inappropriate implant size
- Implant rupture or deflation
- Asymmetry (unevenness) of the breasts
- Calcium deposits in the scar capsule around the implant
- Granulomas, or lumps in local lymph node tissue formed by leaking silicone
- Breastfeeding difficulties, including reduced milk supply
- Reduced effectiveness of breast cancer screening, since an implant may hide breast tissue (and tumours) during a mammogram
- Movement of the implants from their original position
- Further surgery to treat complications
- Risks of anaesthesia including allergic reaction or potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack
- A blood clot in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis), which can move to the lungs (pulmonary embolus) or to the brain and may be life threatening.
- Dr Blennerhassett will discuss your individual expectations, risks and recovery management with you in person
Do My Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced By the Same Surgeon?
If recently – If your surgery was done recently, we would recommend that you see your original surgeon to obtain advice on the management of your breast implants.
If a while ago – If you choose not to see your original surgeon, or if your original surgeon is no longer an option (you have relocated to Perth from elsewhere for example), then you are welcome to see Dr Lewis Blennerhassett for an assessment. It is important for you to try to obtain as much information on your previous surgery as possible. The most important information is size and manufacturer of implants, date of surgery and location of the implants (under the muscle or in front of the muscle).
If a while ago – If you choose not to see your original surgeon, or if your original surgeon is no longer an option (you have relocated to Perth from elsewhere for example), then you are welcome to see Dr Lewis Blennerhassett for an assessment. It is important for you to try to obtain as much information on your previous surgery as possible. The most important information is size and manufacturer of implants, date of surgery and location of the implants (under the muscle or in front of the muscle).
How Much Does Breast Implants Replacement Surgery Cost?
Medicare or health insurance funds will, unfortunately, not cover any costs associated with the replacement of breast prostheses – except if the original implants were from a breast reconstruction following a diagnosis of breast cancer.
Estimates of the full surgical, hospital and anaesthetic costs for breast implants replacement surgery can be obtained by phoning our practice staff - Tara, Domenica and Paula - on 9381 6977.
An exact cost estimate cannot be given until you have had your consultation with Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett, discussed your needs and a personalised plan for the surgery has been drawn up.
Costs associated with breast implant replacement surgeries include;
Estimates of the full surgical, hospital and anaesthetic costs for breast implants replacement surgery can be obtained by phoning our practice staff - Tara, Domenica and Paula - on 9381 6977.
An exact cost estimate cannot be given until you have had your consultation with Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett, discussed your needs and a personalised plan for the surgery has been drawn up.
Costs associated with breast implant replacement surgeries include;
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anaesthesia fees
- Prescriptions for medication
- Post-surgery garments
- Medical Tests
Aftercare Breast Implants Replacement Costs
Your post-op aftercare is covered in your surgical fee, you do not have to pay extra for this. This includes the removal of sutures, changing of dressings etc. and advice on wound care and recovery.
If you have a new problem, a new referral is necessary. This is a Medicare requirement.
Contact us now to arrange a consultation and quote for Breast Implants Replacement Surgery.
If you have a new problem, a new referral is necessary. This is a Medicare requirement.
Contact us now to arrange a consultation and quote for Breast Implants Replacement Surgery.
Getting Breast Implants Replacement Surgery in Perth
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Referral needed - You will now need to first obtain a referral for cosmetic surgery from your GP.
We will also get you to complete a screening questionnaire. The changes are new rulings from the Medical Board and AHPRA. They are being introduced across Australia to further support high quality care. First consultation with breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett- At your first visit, we will listen to your needs, discuss your concerns, requirements and risks, and an operative plan will be formulated specifically for you. Chat with our friendly practice staff – they will help you find a suitable date for your surgery and advise on necessary preparations. |
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Second consultation with Dr Blennerhassett prior to surgery - This is so you have an opportunity to ask any questions you may not have thought of at the first visit and so everything is still fresh in your mind for the day of surgery. For this reason, the second visit is usually close to the date of surgery.
Prioritising quality care and safety – breast implants replacement surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you will be asleep for the procedure. Breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett ensures his breast surgeries are performed only in fully accredited, fully equipped Perth hospitals, with highly qualified, skilled anaesthetists.
On the day of the surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital by the nursing staff and prepared for the operating theatre. The surgery may take several hours. A single night’s stay in hospital is usual, and Dr Blennerhassett will review your progress on the ward prior to discharge.
Aftercare - begins immediately after surgery and key post-surgery follow-up examinations are scheduled for approximately 3 months.
This is general recovery advice for educational purposes only. Dr Blennerhassett will discuss your individual expectations, risks and recovery management with you.
Prioritising quality care and safety – breast implants replacement surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you will be asleep for the procedure. Breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett ensures his breast surgeries are performed only in fully accredited, fully equipped Perth hospitals, with highly qualified, skilled anaesthetists.
On the day of the surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital by the nursing staff and prepared for the operating theatre. The surgery may take several hours. A single night’s stay in hospital is usual, and Dr Blennerhassett will review your progress on the ward prior to discharge.
Aftercare - begins immediately after surgery and key post-surgery follow-up examinations are scheduled for approximately 3 months.
This is general recovery advice for educational purposes only. Dr Blennerhassett will discuss your individual expectations, risks and recovery management with you.
First Class Breast Implants Aftercare
During the recovery period, breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett will personally oversee your aftercare and is contactable to answer your questions. His mobile number will be provided to you during pre-surgery consultations.
Further dressings changes will take place at Dr Blennerhassett’s Subiaco Plastic Surgery rooms until all healing is complete. Our expert nursing staff will attend to your dressings and bandages.
Further dressings changes will take place at Dr Blennerhassett’s Subiaco Plastic Surgery rooms until all healing is complete. Our expert nursing staff will attend to your dressings and bandages.
What Do I Need To Do Before Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
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When you have your first consultation with Perth breast implants surgeon Dr Lewis Blennerhassett, a thorough assessment of all factors will be taken into account so that the best possible outcome can be achieved. This will be discussed carefully with you in easy-to-understand language.
We will usually recommend that you have a breast ultrasound or mammogram prior to surgery if you have not had one in the past 12 months. |
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Large selections of before and after photos of Dr Blennerhassett's patients (with patient consent) are available for you to review if you wish to see these. A thorough discussion of the risks and side effects of this surgery will also be made at the first visit.
If you decide to proceed with your surgery, our practice staff - Tara, Domenica and Paula - will be able to liaise with you to find the most suitable date for surgery. They will be able to give you full costings at this stage.
Once you have booked a date for surgery, a second visit at our rooms will be scheduled for a week or two prior to the surgery date. This is so you have an opportunity to ask any questions you may not have thought of at the first visit and so everything is still fresh in your mind for the day of surgery. There is no fee for this second visit.
If you decide to proceed with your surgery, our practice staff - Tara, Domenica and Paula - will be able to liaise with you to find the most suitable date for surgery. They will be able to give you full costings at this stage.
Once you have booked a date for surgery, a second visit at our rooms will be scheduled for a week or two prior to the surgery date. This is so you have an opportunity to ask any questions you may not have thought of at the first visit and so everything is still fresh in your mind for the day of surgery. There is no fee for this second visit.
What Do I Need To Do after Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
A first post-op visit at Dr Blennerhassett’s Subiaco Plastic Surgery rooms will be scheduled at one week after the surgery for a wound-check and change of dressings, carried out by our highly experienced nurses. A second visit is scheduled for the following week. All visits to the rooms for dressings after the surgery are included in the cost of the surgery. Further follow-up visits usually take place around 3 months after the surgery.
How Much Time Off Work Will I Need for Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
You will need about 2 weeks off work but this obviously depends upon your occupation. If you have a very physically demanding job, you may require longer.
How Much Time Will I Need Off Sport for Breast Implants Replacement Surgery?
We encourage walking as soon as possible after surgery. Contact sport or impact activities, such as running, are best avoided for three to four weeks.
This is general recovery advice for educational purposes only. Dr Blennerhassett will discuss your individual expectations, risks and recovery management with you.
This is general recovery advice for educational purposes only. Dr Blennerhassett will discuss your individual expectations, risks and recovery management with you.
Breast Implants Replacement Surgery Words to Know
(Source: Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons Glossary)
Augmentation mammoplasty: Breast enlargement by surgery
Breast Augmentation: Also known as augmentation mammoplasty; breast enlargement by surgery
Saline implants: Breast implants filled with salt water
Silicone implants: Breast implants filled with an elastic gel
Submammary or subglandular placement: Breast implants placed directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle
Submuscular or subpectoral placement: Breast implants placed under the pectoral muscle, which is located between the breast tissue and chest wall
Augmentation mammoplasty: Breast enlargement by surgery
Breast Augmentation: Also known as augmentation mammoplasty; breast enlargement by surgery
Saline implants: Breast implants filled with salt water
Silicone implants: Breast implants filled with an elastic gel
Submammary or subglandular placement: Breast implants placed directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle
Submuscular or subpectoral placement: Breast implants placed under the pectoral muscle, which is located between the breast tissue and chest wall
