Expert Breast Implant Replacement
BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL LOOKING RESULTS GUARANTEED
Restore your comfort, Upgrade to the Latest FDA Approved Breast Implants, and Achieve a Brand New Aesthetic
Before & After Gallery
Breast implant revision is tailored to each patient’s specific goals, including improved symmetry, updated size, and a more natural contour. Browse real results from patients who chose breast implant replacement at Northwest Face & Body.
What is Breast Implant replacement Surgery?
Breast implant replacement, also called implant exchange or revision surgery, is the process of removing existing breast implants and replacing them with new ones. The procedure generally takes 1 to 2 hours and most patients return to light activity within a week.
This procedure offers a reset point. Some patients need to address complications from an older implant. Others simply want a refreshed look. Either way, breast implant exchange allows the breasts to be restored to a natural contour, or reshaped entirely with a new style and size.
Why Upgrade Your Implants?
The body changes over time, and implants can be updated to match it.
01
Resolve Complications
Relieve discomfort, firmness, or misshapen contours caused by scar tissue buildup (capsular contracture), and safely address ruptured saline implants.
02
Aesthetic Reset
Correct changes in breast shape or volume caused by weight loss, pregnancy, or natural aging, matching results to current lifestyle and body goals.
02
Latest Implant Technology
Move from older generation implants to modern, natural-feeling cohesive silicone gel, often called gummy bear implants, for a softer and more natural result.
What to Expect
Breast Implant Replacement Cost
The cost of breast implant replacement starts at $7,995, with the final price depending on implant type, whether a breast lift is combined with the procedure, and individual anatomy. A detailed, itemized quote is provided during the consultation, after a physical exam and a review of goals.
Financing is available through third-party medical lending partners, allowing the cost to be spread into manageable monthly payments. The care team can walk through financing options during a consultation, with no obligation to move forward.
Meet Your Surgeons
Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra
BOARD CERTIFIED COSMETIC Plastic SURGEON
Dr. Ludwig A. Allegra is a multi-board-certified surgeon serving the Seattle area since 1983. Trained at Tufts University and the University of Washington, he bridges functional and aesthetic medicine with a precise, methodical approach.
With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Allegra offers comprehensive cosmetic expertise, from pioneering endoscopic facial rejuvenation to advanced body contouring. Patients seeking breast implant replacement surgery choose Dr. Allegra for his gentle, precise technique and his ability to restore natural breast aesthetics. He also provides advanced, minimally invasive treatments for sinus conditions and sleep apnea.
Dr. Tarak Patel
BOARD CERTIFIED Plastic SURGEON
Dr. Tarak Patel is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in cosmetic surgery. After completing his plastic surgery residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in 2008, he continued caring for patients while serving as a U.S. Army surgeon before retiring from military service in 2018.
Breast procedures and body contouring are among Dr. Patel’s primary areas of focus, including breast implant replacement surgery. He is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and has been recognized as “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” in the Best of South Sound awards. Patients value his clear communication, personalized care, and commitment to safe, natural-looking results.
Dr. Rajasekhar Nalluri
BOARD CERTIFIED Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Rajasekhar Nalluri is a board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon with over 23 years of experience and more than 20,000 successful procedures. His clinical training at Case Western Reserve University supports a comprehensive range of aesthetic and reconstructive treatments.
Breast implant replacement surgery ranks among Dr. Nalluri’s most sought-after procedures, using precise, less invasive techniques to safely restore natural aesthetics. Recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, he emphasizes personalized care, transparent communication, and minimal downtime.
What to Expect
Breast Implant Replacement Recovery
Recovery from breast implant replacement is generally shorter than the original augmentation, since the surgical pocket is already established.
- Day 1 to 3: Rest is recommended, with mild swelling and soreness managed by prescribed medication.
- Week 1: Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities.
- Week 2 to 4: Swelling continues to subside, and light exercise can typically resume with surgeon approval.
- Week 6: Most patients are cleared for full activity, including strenuous exercise.
Individual recovery timelines vary based on the extent of the procedure, such as whether a breast lift is combined with the implant exchange.
Is Implant Exchange Right For You?
You are likely an ideal candidate if you are currently experiencing the following issues:
- Experiencing hardening or pain in the breast (capsular contracture).
- MRI/ultrasound detected a silent rupture, or a saline implant has deflated.
- Unhappy with the current size, shape, or symmetry of your breasts.
- Your body has changed significantly due to weight fluctuations or nursing.
- It has been 10–15 years since your original surgery.
A consultation with a board-certified surgeon will confirm candidacy and outline the best implant option for individual anatomy and goals.
Breast Implant Options
Choosing the right implant is one of the biggest decisions in the process. We help patients compare feel, shape, and how the implant will look on their frame.
Silicone Gel Implants
- Filled with cohesive gel designed to feel closer to natural breast tissue.
- Silicone implants are favored by many patients for a softer feel and reduced visible rippling.
- FDA-approved for patients 22 and older.
Saline Implants
- Filled with sterile saltwater solution.
- Volume can be adjusted during placement. If a saline implant ruptures, it deflates gradually and the change is typically noticeable.
- FDA-approved for patients 18 and older.
Cohesive Gel (Gummy Bear) Implants
- A form-stable silicone gel designed to maintain shape even if the shell is compromised.
- Particularly helpful for patients who want structured contour or have thinner natural tissue coverage.
NWFB offers Mentor® breast implants in a range of options, including silicone gel (MemoryGel®), form-stable, and saline. Mentor provides warranty coverage that may include implant replacement and financial assistance. Your surgeon will explain implant selection and Mentor warranty options during your consultation.
Routine monitoring is recommended for silicone implants in accordance with FDA guidelines, including periodic imaging when appropriate.
What Our Patients Say
★★★★★
Dr. Nalluri and the whole staff were amazing! I felt very comfortable and taken care throughout the whole process of my lift and augmentation. I absolutely love my results and seeing how excited Dr. Nalluri was at my post op appointments solidified the fact I made the right choice. I will forever highly recommend him and the team.
Missy Baltra — (Dr. Nalluri)
★★★★★
Such a lovely experience at NW Face and Body. Dr. Patel is such superb surgeon who handled my fears and concerns with clear and calm guidance. The team of nurses and other important staff that really helped smooth my journey on each step.
Hillary A— (Dr. Patel)
★★★★★
I recently had a breast augmentation with Dr. Nalluri at Northwest Face & Body and couldn’t be happier with my results. The entire experience was professional, comfortable, and exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend!
Bonnie H— (Dr. Patel)
What to know
Breast Implant Replacement Safety
As with any surgical procedure, breast implant replacement carries risks, including infection, changes in sensation, scarring, and the possibility of future revision. These risks are discussed in detail during the consultation, along with steps taken to minimize them.
All procedures are performed by board-certified surgeons in an accredited surgical facility, following FDA guidance on implant safety and monitoring.
Related Procedures
Patients considering breast implant replacement often also explore breast lift surgery, breast lift with implant removal, and full breast reconstruction revision. Each of these procedures can be combined with implant exchange during the same surgery, depending on individual goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have new scars after an implant exchange?
In most cases, your surgeon will use the exact same incision site from your original breast augmentation (such as the inframammary fold under the breast). This means you generally will not have new scars unless you are also opting for a breast lift or if a different surgical approach is medically necessary.
Can I change my implant size or type during this surgery?
Absolutely. In fact, most patients use this opportunity to switch from saline to silicone, upgrade to newer implant profiles, or adjust their cup size to better fit their current aesthetic preferences.
Can I get a breast lift at the same time as my exchange?
Yes. Many patients choose to combine an implant exchange with a breast lift (mastopexy). If your breasts have sagged due to weight loss, pregnancy, or natural aging, replacing the implant alone will not fix the drooping skin. A combined procedure removes excess skin and elevates the breast for a more youthful profile.
What happens if I want to downsize to a much smaller implant?
If you choose a significantly smaller implant, the existing breast “pocket” will be too large. Your surgeon will need to perform internal suturing (capsulorrhaphy) to shrink the pocket so the new, smaller implant stays securely in place. A breast lift is also commonly required when downsizing to tighten the stretched skin.
Do I really have to replace my implants every 10 years?
Implants are not considered lifetime devices, but there is no strict rule that they must be replaced exactly at the 10-year mark if you are not experiencing any issues. However, the risk of rupture or complications increases over time, so regular monitoring (and MRI screenings for silicone implants) is recommended.
How much does breast implant replacement cost?
Breast implant replacement typically starts at $7,995. Final pricing depends on implant type and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are combined with the exchange. A personalized quote is provided after a consultation.
How long is recovery after breast implant replacement?
Most patients return to light activity within a week and are cleared for full activity, including exercise, by six weeks. Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the procedure.
Am I a candidate for breast implant exchange?
Good candidates typically have capsular contracture, a ruptured implant, dissatisfaction with current size or shape, or implants that are 10 to 15 years old. A consultation confirms candidacy on an individual basis.
Ready for a Change?
Breast implant replacement restores comfort, corrects complications, and updates results to match current goals. Seattle patients trust Northwest Face & Body’s board-certified surgeons for safe, natural-looking outcomes backed by decades of combined experience. Schedule a free consultation today to get a personalized recovery timeline, implant recommendation, and pricing quote.