Breast implant removal and replacement is requested for many reasons, including correction, cosmetic, medical, or lifestyle reasons. Women who have previously undergone breast enhancement surgery may find that their implants’ shape and feel have changed with time. Others may find that the results of their previous procedure did not achieve their goals. Some women may be experiencing medical issues from back pain to ruptured implants. Whatever the reason, Southfield’s Dr. Mariam Awada will help you to replace an unwanted implant with a new one that gives you a look and comfort level you were expecting in the first place.

With the advancement of time, older implants can cause the breast to lose its natural volume and elasticity. Skin aging results in stretched tissue, leaving the breasts sitting lower on your chest. When replacing older (or ruptured) breast implants, patients often consider a breast lift to add perkiness. A simple removal of implants may leave your breast looking saggy and deflated. With a lift, you can restore the volume and lift your aging breast tissue. When you consult with Dr. Mariam Awada, she will evaluate the condition of your implants. She will then advise if you will need removal and replacement with a lift.

When you decide the time is right to remove and replace your breast implant, it is essential to know what exactly you do not like about your current implants. Do they not feel natural? Is there rippling under your skin? Are they too big or small for your body type? Silicone, saline, and natural fat transfer augmentation all have different applications. When choosing the correct replacement that will meet your goals, Dr. Mariam Awada and her Southfield based team will help you understand each method’s benefits and limitations.

For most women undergoing breast implant removal, the surgery and recovery will be very similar to when the implants were first inserted. An incision will be made during the surgery, typically on your existing scar around the areola or along the breast's crease. The implant is then removed and, if the patient has decided to replace the implant, the surgeon will insert a new one. Recovery time and the pain associated with it will generally be the same as the original surgery, with most women experiencing soreness for about a week. Exercising and conducting strenuous work should be put off for about six weeks to prevent shifting or rupture your breasts' stitches. Most women return to work within a week or two, provided their job responsibilities are not overly physical.

For some women, especially those that have experienced a rupture of a silicone or saline implant, the idea of inserting a new artificial implant is not an option. However, many women also want to maintain the volume and shape their implants provided them. Luckily there is a natural solution for those that would like to forgo an artificial option. By harvesting the natural fat from problem areas around the butt, thighs, and belly, we can restore the shape your implant provided. The results are natural-looking and feeling breasts that do not carry the rupture risk that silicon and saline implants do. As an added bonus, the liposuction procedure helps sculpt other parts of your body, helping you achieve other body image goals.