Breast Implant Exchange or Removal — Consultant-Led Guidance from London

Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide, and implants can provide long-lasting results for some patients. However, over time, some women choose to replace or remove their implants due to changes in lifestyle, body shape, or personal preferences.

At Cosmetic Surgery Partners London, our GMC-registered consultant surgeons provide honest, patient-centred advice on all aspects of breast implant exchange or removal. Whether you are considering a change in implant size, addressing previous results, or choosing to remove them entirely, your care is guided by clinical assessment, sensitivity, and safety.

When Might You Consider Breast Implant Exchange or Removal?

While modern breast implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they are not considered lifetime devices. Over time, changes in the body or implant material can make replacement or removal an appropriate option.

Common reasons patients choose implant exchange or removal include:

• Aesthetic changes: Desire for a different size, shape, or appearance.
• Implant ageing: Over time, implants may lose integrity or shift slightly in position.
• Capsular contracture: Formation of scar tissue around the implant causing firmness or discomfort.
• Body or lifestyle changes: Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or ageing can alter breast shape and appearance.
• Personal preference: Some patients decide to remove implants entirely for a more natural contour.

👉 Learn more about when to consider a change in implants in our guide: When Should I Replace My Breast Implants?

Consultation and Planning — The First Step

Every implant exchange or removal at Cosmetic Surgery Partners begins with a consultation led by a GMC-registered consultant surgeon, such as Mr Mohsen El Gammal.

Your consultation includes:

• A thorough clinical assessment of your breast tissue, skin condition, and implant placement
• Discussion of your reasons and goals for replacement or removal
• Review of options such as changing implant size, adjusting pocket position, or combining surgery with a breast lift (mastopexy) for contour considerations
• A clear explanation of risks, recovery, and realistic outcomes, in line with ASA and GMC standards

The aim is to ensure decisions are made with full understanding and appropriate support.

👉 You can explore more about our Breast Implant Exchange Procedure for detailed guidance.

Implant Replacement Following Assessment

When patients are happy with their augmentation but wish to change or update their implants, implant replacement may be discussed following individual assessment.

During replacement surgery, the old implants are removed and new ones are positioned within the same or a revised pocket. Patients may also choose to:

• Change size or projection to better suit their current body shape
• Consider newer implant designs following clinical discussion
• Combine the exchange with a breast lift as part of an overall treatment plan

A consultant-led approach prioritises clinical judgement, proportion, and patient safety.

Implant Removal Options

Some patients choose to remove their implants without replacement. This may be discussed for health, lifestyle, or personal reasons.

Following removal, your surgeon may discuss:

• Breast uplift (mastopexy) to address excess skin where appropriate
• Fat transfer as an option in selected cases
• Aftercare planning to support healing

All treatment plans are personalised and discussed in relation to individual anatomy and preferences.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery experiences following implant exchange or removal vary and are discussed during consultation. Typical recovery guidance includes:

• First few days: Mild swelling and tightness in the early postoperative period
• 1–2 weeks: Gradual return to work and daily activities
• 4–6 weeks: Progressive reintroduction of exercise as advised by your surgeon

Patients are provided with a structured aftercare plan, including:

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Consultant-led wound checks for comfort and reassurance.
• Guidance on support garments and scar care.

This hands-on aftercare is designed to support safety and comfort throughout recovery.

Long-Term Monitoring and Follow-Up

Long-term outcomes vary and are monitored through follow-up appointments where appropriate, supporting ongoing clinical oversight of breast health and implant status.

At Cosmetic Surgery Partners London, patients benefit from consultant-led care, ongoing support where appropriate, and ethical communication in line with ASA and GMC guidelines. For patients seeking reassurance or post-surgery advice, our team remains available to provide support over time.

Why Choose Cosmetic Surgery Partners London

At Cosmetic Surgery Partners, implant procedures are performed by GMC-registered consultant plastic surgeons with a clinical focus on breast surgery, within CQC-registered London facilities.

Patients benefit from consultant-led consultations and surgery, personalised care based on clinical assessment, and transparent communication with realistic expectations.

Our consultants, including Mr Mohsen El Gammal has over 25 years’ experience in breast surgery, with treatment plans tailored to individual anatomy and assessment.

👉 To discuss your options, contact our clinic for a private consultation.

Conclusion

Choosing to replace or remove breast implants is a personal decision, often influenced by lifestyle, comfort, or evolving aesthetic preferences. Any decision regarding surgery is made following individual clinical assessment and detailed consultation.

At Cosmetic Surgery Partners London, our consultant surgeons provide ethical, patient-focused care, ensuring treatment plans are appropriate, informed, and tailored to individual needs.

👉 Learn more about breast implant exchange and removal in London or book your consultation today.