There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to changing breast implants, as it’s often done on a case-by-case basis.
Many women love theirs and feel confident and sexy with them. But there are also plenty of reasons they may decide to have them changed or removed.
Having breast implants essentially means dealing with a foreign object in your body. And while implants are generally safe, some potential complications can arise.
Here are some signs that it might be time for you to consider changing your breast implants.
Numbness or Tingling in Nipples
One of the most common implant problems is capsular contracture. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and shrinks.
It can cause pain, deformity, and even nipple numbness or tingling. In fact, nipple numbness or tingling is often one of the first signs of capsular contracture.
Most of the time, changing or removing the implant may be the only way to resolve the issue. So, if you experience this symptom, you must see Dr. Nidal Masri immediately.
Irritation in the Skin of the Breasts
Allergies and other skin reactions are common, even for those with breast implants. In most cases, these reactions are mild and go away on their own with time.
But in some cases, they may indicate something wrong with the implant. For example, if you develop severe itching or swelling on the implant, it may imply infection.
According to Nidal Masri MD, when you experience irritation, you need to:
- Consult with your doctor. The first step is to consult your doctor and find out what irritates your skin. In some cases, the implant may be the reason. Usually, it may be an allergic reaction to the materials used in the implant.
- Adjust your medication regimen. Certain medications can irritate the skin around the breasts. If you are taking other medicines, talk to your doctor about adjusting your regimen.
- Try a different implant material. If you think the implant causes irritation, you may want to try another type of implant material. Many kinds of breast implants are available which will work for you.
Saline vs. Silicone
Here’s a quick comparison of two breast implants that surgeons commonly use today.
| Implant | Saline | Silicone |
| Filling | Filled with sterile salt water | Filled with a gel closely resembling human fat |
| Appearance | More noticeable due to its slightly firmer texture | Provide a more natural look and feel |
| Price | Cost approximately $800 for a pair. | Cost around $1,800 for a pair |
Asymmetrical Breasts
Typically, patients feel that their breasts are asymmetrical after implant surgery. Often, this is due to swelling as your body is still adjusting to the implants.
In most cases, the asymmetry will even out on its own within a few months. But there are some cases where the asymmetry is due to the implants. If your implants are of different sizes or shapes, it can cause your breasts to look and feel uneven.
If you’re concerned about how your breasts look or feel, don’t hesitate to talk to Dr. Nick Masri. He can help you determine if a change or removal is necessary.
Fluid Leakage
One sign that you need to replace your breast implants is if you notice fluid leaking from them.
This problem happens if the implant ruptures or leaks. It could cause the surrounding tissue to become swollen and tender.
The fluid may be transparent or bloody. In some instances, it may even have a foul odor. If you notice any leaking fluid, you must see a doctor as soon as possible.
And in the meantime, avoid wearing tight clothing or sleeping on your stomach. These can increase the pressure on your breasts and cause further leakage.
Dissatisfaction with the Results
So you got your breast implants, and now you’re dissatisfied with the results. Perhaps, they’re not as big as you wanted them to be. Or maybe they don’t look quite right.
But before panicking, remember that it can take time for your body to adjust to the new implants.
In the meantime, you can do a few things to help improve the appearance of your breasts.
- Try wearing a supportive bra or gel inserts. These supports help fill out the implants and give them a more natural appearance.
- Massage your breasts regularly. Doing so will break up scar tissue and help the implants settle.
- Be patient. It can take up to six months for your body to fully adjust to the implants.
If you’re still unhappy with the results after all these things, contact your surgeon. Remember, if your implants keep you from feeling confident in your skin, it may be time to make a change.
Pain or Discomfort
Listening to your body is vital. While discomfort is normal after surgery, any changes in your pain level can signal that something is wrong.
For example, sudden sharp pains or stabbing sensations signify implant rupture. If one breast is more painful than the other, it might indicate a problem with the surrounding tissue.
If you experience any unusual pain, you must contact your doctor immediately.
Interference with Lifestyle
Your breast implants are a big part of your life. But what happens when they start to interfere with your lifestyle?
For instance, you must avoid certain activities that could damage your implants. You may also need to take special care of your breasts during and after surgery. And removing your implants means undergoing another surgery.
So, if your breast implants interfere with your lifestyle, it may be time to rethink your decision. Perhaps you can change the size or type of your implants. Or maybe you may opt for complete implant removal.
But only you can decide what’s best for you. Remember that breast implants are not a life-long commitment. There’s no shame in making a change if it’s what’s best for you.
