When should implants be replaced or removed?
Today's breast implants do not have a fixed "expiry date". The idea of replacing them every 10 years is outdated for modern implants such as Motiva®. However, there are medical and aesthetic reasons that justify a replacement:
- Capsular contracture (Baker III–IV): hard, painful, deformed breast
- Rupture or suspected rupture on ultrasound/MRI
- Rippling: visible implant folds under thin skin
- Malposition: bottoming out, lateral displacement or rotation of an anatomical implant
- Desired change of size or shape
- Implant-associated symptoms (BII): explant plus capsulectomy
- Personal decision: you no longer want them
Available options
A replacement is not "easier" than the first surgery
A well-executed replacement requires specific planning: study of the current implant, evaluation of the capsule, assessment of the remaining breast tissue and a decision on complementary techniques (mastopexy, lipofilling). It is a different operation from a primary breast augmentation.
Recovery
Relative rest
Post-surgical bra. Drains for 24–48h when required.
Work
Return to sedentary tasks.
Physical activity
Cardio from week 6, strength training from week 8.
Final
Breast settled and shape stabilised.
Changing breast implants: the most common reasons
Today's implants do not have an expiry date, but they are not for life either. Most women who come to us to change their breast implants do so for one of these reasons:
- Capsular contracture: the capsule the body forms around the implant hardens, distorts the breast or causes pain. Correcting it requires removing the capsule (capsulectomy) as well as the implant.
- Ruptured implant: with cohesive silicone implants, rupture is usually silent and is diagnosed by ultrasound or MRI. It is not an emergency, but the replacement should be planned.
- Old implants or models withdrawn from the market: the Spanish Agency of Medicines (AEMPS) does not recommend removing them as a precaution if they cause no symptoms, but it does recommend regular monitoring; the decision is made case by case.
- Change of size or sagging breasts: after pregnancy or weight changes, implant revision is often combined with a breast lift (mastopexy).
- Removal without new implants (explant): more and more patients choose to have their implants removed; the breast can be reshaped with a breast lift or lipofilling.
Before surgery we review your ultrasound or MRI, your implant card and the previous operation, even if another surgeon performed it. If this is your first breast surgery, the right information is on the breast augmentation page.
The consultation is free, at Av. Diagonal 399 (Eixample, Barcelona) or by video call, and you leave with a fixed, written quote.
Risks and complications of breast implant replacement
Every operation carries risks. Most complications are uncommon and can be treated, but you have the right to know them before deciding: they are part of the informed consent you will sign with Dr. Liuzza. For breast implant replacement, the most relevant are:
- Risks of breast augmentation: capsular contracture, seroma, infection, asymmetry or rippling, as in a first operation.
- Haematoma: somewhat more frequent than in a first operation if the capsule is removed (capsulectomy).
- Change in shape or volume: the breast may look different from before; it is planned in consultation with measurements and simulation.
- Need for a breast lift: if the skin has stretched, removing or changing the implant can leave the breast droopy and make a lift necessary.
- Altered sensation: of the nipple, usually temporary.
- New scars: if the approach is changed or a lift is added.
How we reduce these risks
A complete pre-operative work-up (blood tests and anaesthetic assessment), surgery in an authorised healthcare centre with an accredited operating theatre, meticulous surgical technique, antibiotic and anti-thrombotic prophylaxis when indicated, clear written instructions and direct follow-up by the surgeon herself at every check-up. If after surgery you notice fever, increasing pain, bleeding or sudden swelling, contact the clinic without waiting for your next appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to replace my implants every 10 years?
How do I know if I have capsular contracture?
Can I have my implants removed without replacing them?
Is it covered by the Spanish public health system?
How much does a replacement cost in Barcelona?
What does the breast look like after implant removal?
What should I do if I think an implant has ruptured?
How quickly do you reply on WhatsApp?
How long is the recovery after breast implant replacement or revision?
Patient reviews
Reviews from patients operated on by Dr. Liuzza, published on Google.
«[PLACEHOLDER — paste a real Google review about breast implant replacement here, 2-3 sentences, unedited]»
«[PLACEHOLDER — paste a real Google review about breast implant replacement here, 2-3 sentences, unedited]»
«[PLACEHOLDER — paste a real Google review about breast implant replacement here, 2-3 sentences, unedited]»
Individual results; every case is assessed personally at the free first consultation.
Financing and payment options
The quote you receive after the free first consultation is fixed and in writing: it includes surgeon's fees, operating theatre, anaesthesia, materials and every follow-up visit. No hidden costs on the day of surgery.
- Pay in full or in instalments: we work with Pepper financing and will explain the available plans with no obligation.
- Free first consultation and video call, also if you live outside Barcelona or Spain.
- Written quote before you book a surgery date.
Financing is subject to approval by the finance provider. If you live outside Spain, ask us about the options available to you.