Written by Raghuveer Boddireddy, MD. Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Breast Implant Revision?
A plastic surgeon, a surgeon who reshapes the body, performs breast implant revision. The surgeon should be board-certified and well trained and experienced in all types of breast surgery. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
We cover breast implant revision only, which is surgery on breasts that already have implants, to replace the old implants with new ones. Often the goal is also to change or improve how the breasts look. Over time, implants can change shape or size, and the breast tissue over them can change too. Revision is not a standard or routine procedure, so it is tailored to each patient's goals.
Why a doctor might recommend it
People choose revision for reasons such as wanting a different breast size. Others have pain from capsular contracture, or worry that an implant has broken open or moved. Some want to switch from saline to silicone implants, or to a different style of implant. Many implants have a lifetime warranty on the implant device itself, but after ten years the costs of replacement surgery are no longer covered. Because of this, many women choose to replace or update their implants at around 10 years.
How to prepare
Your plastic surgeon will explain the risks of surgery in detail. You will be asked to sign consent forms to show you understand the procedure and its risks. Ask your plastic surgeon directly about anything you want to know.
What happens during it
The surgeon replaces the old breast implants with new implants. The surgeon may also reshape the implant pocket to put the implant in a new position on the chest. The new implant can be larger or smaller, or a different shape or style. A breast lift or reduction may be done at the same time.
Recovery
You may or may not wear a support bra or other garment, depending on your surgery. In some cases, a small, thin tube is placed under the skin for a short time to drain extra blood or fluid. You will get instructions on how to care for the surgical site. You may also get medicines to help healing and be told what to watch for. Healing continues for several weeks as swelling goes down. You should attend follow-up visits as scheduled.
Risks and side effects
Possible risks include bleeding, blood clots in the deep veins, and heart and lung problems. Other risks are infection, fluid buildup called a seroma, and a pool of blood called a hematoma. Numbness or other changes in skin feeling, lasting pain, and poor healing of the cuts are also possible. Very rare cancers can form in the capsule around the breast, including one called BIA-ALCL. Some people link symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, muscle or joint pain, and rash to their implants, which is called breast implant illness. The vast majority of people with breast implants have no serious complications. If a complication develops, you should see a board-certified plastic surgeon in a timely manner.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain lasting two minutes or more, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A board-certified plastic surgeon should perform it. Your surgeon should listen to your goals and plan the surgery to address all of the issues at the time of surgery.
Common questions
Why do people have breast implant revision?
People have it for reasons such as wanting a different size, pain from capsular contracture, or concern about a ruptured or moved implant.
Do breast implants last a lifetime?
No, breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, and future surgery may be needed to replace one or both implants.
How often should breast implants be checked?
The FDA recommends screening with an MRI or ultrasound five to six years after silicone implant placement and every two to three years after that.
Can a breast implant rupture without symptoms?
Yes, some women with ruptured implants have no symptoms.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. If you want your breast implants removed for any reason, you should consult your plastic surgeon.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Breast Implant Revision
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Breast Implant Revision Risks and Safety
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Breast Implant Revision Recovery
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
