Breast implant revision is a procedure that refines the results of a previously performed breast augmentation procedure. Many women seek this procedure to elevate their aesthetic appearance or correct a medical condition. With this guide, you will be able to learn more about this procedure and make more well-informed decisions for the health and well-being of your body.
Dr Riccardo Frati is a premier cosmetic surgeon at Harley Surgery. Dr Frati is internationally renowned and has received world-class training from master surgeons, which is how he achieves the results he has become well known for.
If you are ready to begin working with Dr Frati, we invite you to request a consultation online. You may also call +44 20 3633 2619 to reach our Harley Street office and +44 16 1327 2139 to reach our Manchester office.
Contents
- 1 About Breast Implant Revision
- 2 Signs It Is Time to Undergo Breast Implant Revision
- 3 Candidates
- 4 Preparation
- 5 Procedure
- 6 Recovery
- 7 Results
- 8 Cost of Breast Implant Revision in Harley Street, London
- 9 FAQ
- 9.1 When should I consider undergoing breast implant revision?
- 9.2 How will I know if my breast implants have ruptured?
- 9.3 Can I undergo a breast implant revision if I want to change the size of my implants?
- 9.4 Will my symptoms and side effects return after replacing my implants?
- 9.5 Are breast implant revisions considered more complicated compared to regular breast augmentation procedures?
- 10 References
About Breast Implant Revision
Breast implant revision is a specialised procedure that Dr Frati can perform to enhance the results of a previous breast augmentation. Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed aesthetic operations each year. However, revision rates can stand as high as 36%, where patients seek to correct uncomfortable side effects or misshapen breasts. (1)
When Should You Consider Breast Implant Revision?
While it can take some time to get used to your breast implants, some patients may find themselves wondering if they should undergo a second procedure. According to Dr Frati, you should consider breast implant revision if you have started developing medical concerns or conditions due to their placement or are dissatisfied with your aesthetic results.
Signs It Is Time to Undergo Breast Implant Revision
There are several signs that indicate it may be time to undergo a breast implant revision. During your consultation, Dr Frati can assess the position, symmetry, health, and structural integrity of your implants to determine whether you will benefit from a breast implant revision procedure or not.
Implant Rupture
An implant rupture occurs when silicone or saline implants fail and begin to leak their contents. This condition affects 10% to 15% of implants within 10 to 15 years, with the risk increasing with implant age, type, and surgical factors. (2)
When a saline implant ruptures, the contents of the implant are safely absorbed by the body. Visually, you may notice the affected breast begin to lose its volume and take on a deflated appearance. When a silicone implant rupture occurs, you may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, or changes in your breast shape. This type of rupture is also known as a “silent rupture,” as it may not cause visible deflation or deformation. (3)
Capsular Contracture
After an implant is placed, it is normal for a capsule of fibrous tissue to form around the breast. Capsular contracture occurs when this reaction is exaggerated, and the tissue in the region becomes thickened and fibrotic. This reaction has rates between 5% and 19%, and it is theorized that this complication can occur due to bacterial biofilm formation on the breast implant or surgical site infection. (4)
Implant Shifting
Over time, your implants may shift or move from the location your surgeon originally placed them. Implants are typically mobile in the body, which means that they may not stay in their placement, even if they are placed in a specific way. When they shift, they may move:
- Laterally: Too far outwards towards your armpits
- Medially: Too far inward towards your sternum
- Superiorly: Too far upwards on the chest wall
- Inferiorly: Too far downward, often below your natural breast crease
Implant shifts may be caused by improper placement or dissection errors during your initial procedure, sustaining trauma to the rib’s connective tissue sheath, undergoing a postoperative massage, or excess exercise. However, your natural figure and chest composition may also contribute to malpositioning. (5)
Poor Scarring
If your scars are wide, uneven, overly visible, or have failed to heal properly, you may consider a breast implant revision to hide or alter their appearance. Poor scarring affects approximately 5% of patients, and it can be difficult and costly to address this concern using over-the-counter solutions. (6) Dr Frati can integrate scar minimisation tactics into your revision procedure to soften the appearance of any scars and blend them with the surrounding skin better.
Dissatisfying Results
You may want to undergo a breast implant revision if you are unhappy with the aesthetic results of your previous breast augmentation or believe they are disproportionate to your figure. Dr Frati can perform this procedure to correct the size, shape, and profile of your implants and help you achieve results that better suit your silhouette.
Candidates
You may be an ideal candidate for a breast implant revision if you are dissatisfied with the results of a previous breast augmentation or have developed medical complications because of it.
To qualify, you should be in good general health and maintain realistic expectations regarding your results. You should have fully recovered from your previous breast augmentation. It is also important that you are non-smoking or willing to quit using nicotine. Dr Frati will assess your candidacy during your personal consultation.
Preparation
Once you have scheduled your procedure, Dr Frati will give you a set of detailed preparation instructions. They may vary depending on your concerns, lifestyle habits, and treatment plan, but they typically include:
- Avoiding Certain Medications: Discontinue taking blood-thinning medications and supplements.
- Arranging Time Away: Prepare to take time away from your career and personal life to focus on healing.
- Coordinating Care: Have a trusted friend or family member drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for the first few days of your recovery.
- Running Errands: Pick up your medications and rearrange your home so it is a comfortable recovery environment.
- Stopping Any Substances: Stop consuming any substances in the weeks leading up to your procedure, as they can lead to certain complications developing.
Procedure
When you arrive for your procedure, a member of the Harley Surgery team will lead you to a private room where your skin will be cleansed and marked. You will then be taken to the operating room, where you will receive general anesthesia to maintain your comfort.
Dr Frati will place an incision to access your underlying breast tissues. He will attempt to use the same incision pattern as your initial procedure, but if he cannot, he will place your incisions in areas that can easily be concealed. Once Dr Frati has reached the necessary tissues, he will proceed to remove your breast implants and replace them with a new pair. He will then close the incisions using sutures and dress the area to protect it.
Recovery
After your breast implant revision, you will need to take several weeks to yourself to give your body a chance to recover. You can expect some initial swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treated areas. While these effects will dissipate on their own with time, you may manage them using medications and resting with your head elevated. Dr Frati will also have you wear a compression garment to limit further swelling and maintain your new curves.
After resting for approximately 1 to 2 weeks, you will be able to return to most of your routine. However, you will have to refrain from any harsh, strenuous, or physically demanding activities until Dr Frati has approved your return. Throughout your recovery, Dr Frati will have you return to the office for follow-up appointments. Here, he can monitor your healing progression and developing results.
Dr Frati will provide you with a written set of post-operative instructions during your consultation. If any questions arise during this time, he and his team will be available to answer them.
Results
You will be able to enjoy the results of your breast implant revision once you have fully recovered. Results will vary between patients, but you can expect to experience more shapely, symmetrical, and voluminous breasts, and a more proportionate figure that feels authentic to you. You will also be able to notice improvements in your personal comfort and sense of self-confidence, especially if you have struggled for a longer period of time.
Cost of Breast Implant Revision in Harley Street, London
The pricing of your breast implant revision will vary depending on several factors of your treatment plan, such as your desired corrections, the surgical techniques Dr Frati employs, and the extent of your procedure overall. Once he has established each of these details, he will discuss your financial obligations with you.
FAQ
When should I consider undergoing breast implant revision?
You may want to consider undergoing a breast implant revision if you have been left with dissatisfying aesthetic results or medical complications as a result of a previous breast augmentation.
How will I know if my breast implants have ruptured?
When saline implants rupture, they gradually deflate in size as the body reabsorbs the saline filling. When silicone ruptures occur, you may experience a change in breast shape or firmness, capsular contracture, breast lumps, or breast pain.
Can I undergo a breast implant revision if I want to change the size of my implants?
Yes, you may undergo a breast implant revision if you have decided you are interested in different-sized breasts. During your consultation, Dr Frati can help you find a new pair of implants.
Will my symptoms and side effects return after replacing my implants?
While replacing your breast implants can correct your concerns, they may return or redevelop over time. Dr Frati recommends having your implants regularly checked to ensure their health and structural integrity.
Are breast implant revisions considered more complicated compared to regular breast augmentation procedures?
Yes, many surgeons consider revision procedures to be more complicated. This is because they are working with scarred and thickened tissue, as well as anatomy that has been previously manipulated.
References
- Denney B D, Cohn AB, Bosworth JW, Kumbla PA. Revision Breast Augmentation. Semin Plast Surg. 2021;35(2):98-109. doi:10.1055/s-0041-1727272
- Gossman W, Shikhman R, Moufarrege R. Breast Implant Rupture. Nih.gov. November 11, 2019. Accessed September 8, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459308/
- Hillard C, Fowler J D, Barta R, Cunningham B. Silicone breast implant rupture: a review. Gland Surg. 2017;6(2):163-168. doi:10.21037/gs.2016.09.12
- Clark A, Shauly O, Sherrer J, Losken A. Understanding Capsular Contracture: Mechanisms, Management, and Patient Outcomes in Implant-based Breast Augmentation and Reconstruction. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2026;14(1):e7407. doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000007407
- Paolo Fanzio, Hammer J, Laeken N Van. Recognizing and Managing Breast Implant Complications: A Review for Healthcare Providers Who Treat Women Who Underwent Breast Implant–Based Surgery. International Journal of Women’s Health. 2025;Volume 17:1297-1312. doi:10.2147/ijwh.s501800
- Chambers A. Management of Scarring Following Aesthetic Surgery. PubMed. 2020. Accessed September 8, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK586076/