Dr Axel De LangePlastic Surgeon
A consultation room at the clinic, with a treatment chair beside a curtained window

Implant Revision

Implant Revision in Brussels · Dr Axel De Lange

Naturally shapely, harmonious breasts suited to your figure once again, through a personalised procedure.

Breast implant replacement involves removing the existing implants and replacing them with new ones, in order to preserve or improve the shape, volume and harmony of the breasts.

This procedure may be prompted by a wish for an aesthetic change, the natural evolution of the breasts over the years, or a complication related to the implants, such as a rupture, capsular contracture or displacement.

The surgical approach is tailored to each patient’s anatomy, the quality of the skin, the position of the implants, the condition of the periprosthetic capsule and her wishes regarding the new breast volume.

The goalharmonious, naturally shapely breasts once again, suited to how each patient’s body shape and expectations have evolved.

Breast implant replacement is intended for women who wish to change the volume or shape of their breasts, correct an aesthetic change, or replace implants that present a complication.

It is particularly indicated in cases of implant rupture, capsular contracture, displacement of the implants, asymmetry, or changes to the breasts after pregnancy, breastfeeding or a change in weight.

The ideal patient is in good health, has realistic expectations and wishes to regain harmonious breasts suited to her body shape and current preferences.

Medically reviewed by Dr Axel De Lange · Last reviewed

Your journey,
step by step.

The techniques

Simple implant replacement

Removal of the old implants and placement of new ones, of the same or a different volume.

The techniques

Change of volume or shape

Choice of implants better suited to the proportions of the breasts and the patient’s current expectations.

The techniques

Modification of the implant pocket

Adjustment of the implant position, particularly in cases of displacement, malposition or an unsatisfactory aesthetic result.

The techniques

Capsulotomy or capsulectomy

Treatment of the capsule surrounding the implant when its condition requires it, particularly in the presence of capsular contracture or certain ruptures.

The techniques

Replacement combined with a breast lift

Simultaneous correction of skin laxity and breast ptosis.

The techniques

Replacement combined with lipofilling

Injection of the patient’s own fat to improve the contours, the décolletage and the coverage of the implants.

Step 01

First consultation

At the first consultation, the surgeon takes the time to understand the patient’s motivations, assess how her breasts have changed and examine the existing implants.

A clinical examination assesses the quality of the skin, the position of the implants, any capsular contracture and the proportions of the breasts. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be suggested to check the integrity of the implants.

The surgeon explains the different replacement options, any associated procedures, the scars, the expected benefits and the risks of the procedure.

to establish a precise diagnosis and develop a personalised surgical plan, adapted to the condition of the implants and the wishes of each patient.

Step 02

2nd consultation

The second consultation confirms the surgical plan and refines the choices regarding the new implants and any additional procedures.

It is an opportunity to answer any remaining questions, to confirm the volume, shape and position of the new implants, and to establish whether capsular treatment, a breast lift or lipofilling may also be needed.

The risks, scars, postoperative recovery and practical arrangements for the procedure are also discussed.

to allow the patient to approach her procedure with peace of mind, with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the desired result.

Step 03

The procedure

Anaesthesia: the procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia.

Duration of the procedure: about 1 to 2 hours for a simple replacement, and 2 to 3 hours, sometimes longer, when capsular treatment or a breast lift is combined with it.

Setting: performed in the operating theatre, in a safe hospital environment.

Hospital stay: usually as day surgery, with the possibility of an overnight stay depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Going home: usually the same day or the next day, with personalised postoperative recommendations.

Step 04 · Follow-up

First days

Check of the dressings, the scars and the absence of complications.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 2 to 3 weeks

Assessment of healing and the gradual resolution of oedema.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 3 months

Check of tissue softening, the position of the implants and the development of the breast contour.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 6 to 12 months

Assessment of the stabilised result and the maturation of the scars.

Step 04 · Follow-up

Long term

Regular clinical monitoring of the implants, supplemented by appropriate imaging.

Common question

How do I know if my implants need particular attention?

Certain signs may indicate that your breast implants need a medical check-up, such as a change in the shape or volume of a breast, a recent asymmetry, persistent pain, hardening of the breast or the appearance of unusual swelling.

However, some complications, such as a silent rupture of a silicone implant, can occur without any symptoms. Regular clinical follow-up, combined with an ultrasound or MRI scan when indicated, makes it possible to check the integrity of the implants. Sudden swelling, marked redness or acute pain require a prompt consultation.

to detect any abnormality early in order to protect your safety, your comfort and the harmony of your breasts.

Common question

Can implants be removed without being replaced?

Yes, breast implants can be permanently removed without being replaced. This procedure leaves breasts without implants, whose appearance will depend on the natural breast volume, the quality of the skin and how long the implants have been in place.

Depending on the degree of skin laxity and the patient’s wishes, a breast lift or lipofilling can be combined with it to restore the breast contour and improve the harmony of the breasts.

natural, balanced breasts suited to each patient’s body shape, while respecting her wish to no longer have implants.

Common question

Is a revision more complex than the original augmentation?

Breast implant replacement can be more complex than a first augmentation, particularly because of the periprosthetic capsule, internal scarring and the anatomical changes that have occurred over time.

However, in the case of a simple, uncomplicated replacement, the procedure can be relatively quick and the recovery comparable to that of the first operation. On the other hand, capsular contracture, implant rupture or the need for a breast lift can make the surgery more delicate.

to tailor the surgical technique precisely to the condition of the tissues and implants in order to achieve a natural, harmonious and lasting result, while minimising the risks.

Common question

How often should implants be checked?

Regular follow-up of breast implants is recommended, even in the absence of symptoms, to check their integrity, their position and the absence of complications.

An annual clinical examination is generally advised. For silicone implants, a monitoring ultrasound or MRI scan may be suggested from 5 to 6 years after placement, then every 2 to 3 years, depending on the guidelines and the individual situation.

In the event of pain, hardening, or a change in the shape or volume of a breast, a consultation and appropriate imaging are recommended without waiting for the usual check-up.

to detect any abnormality early and ensure the safety, comfort and longevity of the aesthetic result.

Consultation locations

Consultations are booked directly through each clinic's own platform. Appointments are not taken by phone.

See the locations

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