Simple Exchange
Implant removed and new implant placed in the existing pocket. Quickest option.
Breast · BodyCode Aesthetics
Breast Implant Exchange
Refresh. Resize. Remove.
Implants don't last forever — and tastes change. Whether you want to refresh aging implants, change size, or remove them entirely, our specialist team will guide you.
1–3 hrs
Surgery Time
GA
Anaesthesia
1–2 wks
Recovery
10+ yrs
Long-Term
Abuja, Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria
What is Implant Exchange?
A Refresh for Your Implants.
Breast implant exchange is a planned operation to replace, resize or remove existing implants. It may be elective (you want a different size or shape) or indicated (rupture, contracture, age of implant).
At BodyCode Aesthetics we approach every exchange systematically — assessing the existing capsule, implant condition and breast tissue before recommending the safest plan.
- Refresh aging implants approaching end of life
- Resize — larger or smaller — to match new preferences
- Address capsular contracture or implant rupture
- Remove implants entirely (with or without lift)
- Reposition or change placement (above/below muscle)
- Often combined with mastopexy for a comprehensive refresh
Techniques We Offer
Tailored to your anatomy & goals
Exchange + Capsulectomy
Existing capsule (scar tissue around implant) is removed alongside the implant. Indicated for contracture or rupture.
Exchange + Lift
Combined exchange and mastopexy to address both the implant and any descended tissue.
Implant Removal Only
Permanent implant removal — usually combined with a lift to address the post-implant breast envelope.
Is It Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
Implant exchange suits patients whose implants are aging, malpositioned, ruptured, contracted, or who simply want a different size.
Implant Age
Implants 10–15+ years old are commonly exchanged proactively.
Capsular Contracture
Firmness, distortion or pain caused by capsule thickening around the implant.
Implant Rupture
Confirmed by imaging — silent rupture may be picked up on routine MRI/ultrasound.
Size Change Desired
You'd like to go larger or smaller, or change shape/profile.
Implant Removal
You've decided you no longer want implants — often combined with a lift.
Not Suitable If…
Exchange is delayed if you have active breast infection, untreated breast disease or are pregnant/breastfeeding. Wait at least 6 months after stopping breastfeeding.
Step by Step
The Procedure at BodyCode Aesthetics
Implant exchange is meticulously planned around the existing implant, capsule and any new aesthetic goals.
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01
Consultation & Imaging
Examination plus implant imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to assess condition and confirm integrity.
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02
Pre-Operative Preparation
Blood tests, medical clearance, smoking cessation. Surgical wash and antibiotics.
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03
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia with experienced anaesthetic team.
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04
Existing Incision Approach
Where possible, the previous scar is used to avoid additional scarring.
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05
Implant & Capsule Assessment
Existing implant removed and capsule inspected. Capsulectomy performed if indicated.
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06
New Implant or Closure
New implant placed in refreshed pocket — or closed primarily if removal-only.
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07
Lift Component (If Combined)
If a lift is being combined, mastopexy is performed to address the breast envelope.
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08
Closing & Recovery
Multi-layer closure; supportive surgical bra fitted; aftercare plan provided.
Flexible financing & payment plans available — confirmed at your consultation.
See financing options
Why Choose Us
Why BodyCode Aesthetics?
Specialist Breast Surgeons
All exchanges performed by board-certified surgeons experienced in revision breast surgery.
Comprehensive Imaging
Pre-operative ultrasound or MRI to assess implant integrity and capsule.
Refresh + Lift Expertise
Routine combination of exchange with mastopexy for a comprehensive refresh.
Premium FDA-Approved Implants
New implants are sourced from FDA-approved manufacturers only.
Two Premium Clinics
Performed in Abuja and Lagos with full facilities.
Healing Journey
Recovery Timeline
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01Day 1 – 3 Immediately Post-Surgery
Initial Rest
Chest tightness and soreness. Surgical bra continuously. Pain controlled with medication.
- Wear surgical bra
- Sleep elevated
- Rest with arms close
- No lifting
- No reaching overhead
- No driving
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02Days 4 – 10 Early Recovery
Mobility Returns
Soreness improves. Light activity resumes. First follow-up review.
- Light walking
- Continue surgical bra
- Gentle daily tasks
- No heavy lifting
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03Weeks 2 – 4 Daily Life
Return to Work
Desk work resumed. Implants begin to settle.
- Return to desk work
- Continue surgical bra
- No gym
- No chest exercises
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04Weeks 6 – 12 Exercise Resumes
Gradual Fitness
Cardio cleared at 6 weeks. Chest workouts at 8–12 weeks.
- Cardio cleared
- Gradual chest workouts
- No heavy chest workouts until cleared
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053 – 6 Months Final Results
Settled Result
Implants fully settled. Refresh complete.
- Annual implant check
- Continued scar care
Compression
- Surgical bra 24/7 for 6 weeks
- No underwire for 6 weeks
- Do not skip bra
Diet & Hydration
- High protein for healing
- Hydrate well
- Avoid alcohol 4 weeks
Activity Guide
- Walk from day 2
- Cardio from week 6
- Chest workouts from week 8+
- No overhead lifting early
Scar & Skin Care
- Silicone gel from week 3
- Massage when cleared
- SPF on scars
- No sun for 6 months
Transparency First
Risks & Considerations
Every patient deserves complete honesty. These risks are rare when surgery is performed by BodyCode Aesthetics' expert team.
Recurrent Capsular Contracture
Risk slightly higher in revision than primary surgery. Capsulectomy reduces but doesn't eliminate.
Implant Malposition
Can occur in scarred pockets; managed with internal repair or pocket adjustment.
Scar Visibility
Existing scars are usually reused. Result depends partly on the original scar quality.
Sensation Changes
Temporary nipple sensation changes can occur; usually resolve over months.
Implant Selection Limits
Existing pocket dimensions may limit which new implants can be safely placed.
Need for Lift
After implant exchange (especially with size reduction or removal), a lift may be needed to address loose skin.
Our Commitment to Safety
Revision breast surgery is technically more demanding than primary surgery — we use experienced specialist teams and comprehensive pre-operative planning.
How often should implants be exchanged?
Implants are not lifetime devices but they have no fixed expiry date. Many last 10–15+ years. We recommend imaging surveillance after 10 years and exchange if issues are identified or if you want a change.
Can I just remove implants without replacement?
Yes — implant removal is increasingly common. Most patients benefit from a combined breast lift to address the loose envelope left after removal.
Will my old scars be reused?
Yes wherever possible. Reusing the original scar avoids additional scarring.
Can I change size during exchange?
Absolutely — exchange is the ideal time to resize. Larger or smaller implants can be selected within the limits of your existing pocket.
What is capsular contracture?
Every implant develops a thin natural capsule of scar tissue around it. In a minority of patients this capsule thickens, hardens or shrinks (contracture), distorting the implant. Capsulectomy removes the abnormal capsule.
How is rupture detected?
Ultrasound or MRI is the most reliable. Silent ruptures may be picked up on routine surveillance imaging years after surgery.
Will my recovery be longer than primary surgery?
Slightly — particularly if capsulectomy is performed. But for most simple exchanges, recovery is similar to first-time augmentation.
Will insurance cover implant exchange?
Cosmetic exchanges are not typically covered. Medical reasons (rupture, contracture) may be considered case-by-case.
Can I combine exchange with a lift?
Yes — this is one of our most common combinations and gives a comprehensive refresh in a single operation.
How do I book a consultation?
Click "Book Consultation" or WhatsApp us. Bring your original implant records if available.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on the procedure, the time required and any combined treatments. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Do you offer financing?
We offer flexible payment options. Contact us for current arrangements.
Related
More breast procedures
Breast Implant Exchange
Book a private consultation with our board-certified surgeons. We typically respond within one working day.