There are a number of reasons why women choose to have a breast revision surgery, including weight loss or gain, breastfeeding, desire for a larger or smaller size implant (or implant type, as in saline to silicone), or breast sagginess. Other women experience complications of a breast augmentation procedure like implant rupture, implant malposition, or capsular contracture and opt for revisional breast surgery.
Breast implant exchange can be performed by your original breast augmentation plastic surgeon or another board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in revision surgery like breast implant exchange.
The first step to start your breast implant exchange journey is to have a consultation with Dr. Timothy Janiga. He will walk you through the procedure and ensure it’s the right procedure for your needs. You may also need to adjust the medications you’re taking, stop smoking if you’re a smoker, and arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery. We’ll give you detailed instructions on what to do before your surgery date.
With aging, the breasts can become more ptotic, or saggy. During a breast implant exchange, a breast lift procedure may be used to elevate the nipple-areolar complex to a more youthful location. It can also be used to get rid of excess skin. This is called a mastopexy or breast lift. The type of breast lift performed depends on the degree of sagginess and the amount of natural breast tissue.
Incisions for breast implant revision surgery are typically the same ones used during your breast augmentation – for example, within the breast fold. When the existing breast implants are removed, the capsule of scar tissue that forms around the breast implant can be removed by your plastic surgeon with a capsulectomy, released with a capsulotomy, or repositioned with a capsulorrhaphy. Once the scar tissue is removed, the new breast implant can be placed in the existing implant pocket, or it can be placed in a different pocket location based on your goals.
Dr. Timothy Janiga is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience and countless patient success stories. His calm, expert, and meticulous approach has transformed the lives of both cosmetic and reconstruction patients, helping them feel good in their bodies. Dr. Janiga is an expert in all aspects of plastic surgery and specializes in cosmetic facial surgery, body contouring, and breast surgery.
Breast implant exchange recovery is similar to your initial breast augmentation surgery. You should expect to take one or two weeks away from your regular schedule to rest and recover, during which you’ll wear a surgical bra to support your new breast implants for at least 3 weeks.
You’ll be prescribed medications to manage discomfort and swelling. Make sure to avoid exercise and heavy lifting for at least six weeks. You will also need to avoid lying on your stomach for at least 6 weeks.
Your final results will begin to emerge between three weeks to three months after your procedure. After about 3 months, you will have no further limitations and will be able to return to your usual day-to-day routines.
Breast implant exchange requires advanced surgical judgment, technical precision, and a personalized approach to achieve optimal results. Dr. Janiga completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the University of Michigan, one of the nation’s most respected training programs, and is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. With more than twenty years of experience, he brings a refined, methodical approach to implant exchange procedures, carefully addressing concerns such as implant aging, changes in anatomy, and aesthetic goals through detailed surgical planning.
Dr. Janiga’s commitment to excellence has earned him consistent recognition within the field of cosmetic surgery. He has been named a RealSelf Top Doctor, an honor awarded to fewer than 10% of physicians based on patient engagement and outcomes, and has received multiple “Best Plastic Surgeons in Nevada” awards from the American Institute of Plastic Surgeons for outstanding client satisfaction. He has also been recognized among America’s Most Honored Professionals – Top 5%, is an elected member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, and is an elected member of the Aesthetic Society.
JanigaMDs is the only plastic surgery practice in Northern Nevada operated by both a board-certified plastic surgeon and a board-certified dermatologist. This dual-specialty leadership enhances patient safety, aesthetic decision-making, and long-term results. Combined with a patient-centered philosophy and a history of consistently strong outcomes, JanigaMDs offers a comprehensive and trusted approach to breast implant exchange surgery.
Breast implant exchange surgery can have a lot of benefits. Whatever your reasons or goals, we can recommend your best options. To schedule a consultation and begin planning your ideal breast implant exchange procedure, contact our Reno office to meet with Dr. Timothy Janiga by calling or filling out our online form.
JanigaMDs is the only practice in Reno where patients can consult with both a board-certified dermatologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon in one visit.
Learn More
Founded in 2010, the team at JanigaMDs has been proven to provide the utmost care for all patients. With a 4.7 rating over almost 700 reviews, JanigaMDs is the premier aesthetic practice in Northern Nevada.
Contact Us"*" indicates required fields