Breast Implant Exchange in Thailand
Breast implant exchange is a surgical procedure to remove existing breast implants and replace them with new implants. Patients may choose implant exchange because they want to change the size, shape or type of their implants, because their existing implants are older, or because changes to the breasts have occurred over time. Breast implant exchange can also be part of a broader breast revision procedure where additional issues such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, breast asymmetry, implant position or changes to the breast tissue need to be addressed. At MediCation Tours, your breast implant exchange is arranged as part of an all-inclusive medical tourism package, including surgery, hospital care, accommodation, transfers and patient support. Before you travel, our surgeons review the information and photographs you provide and assess your suitability for surgery. Your surgeon will assess your existing implants, breast tissue, implant position, breast shape and your desired outcome before recommending the most appropriate surgical approach and implant.
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What Is Breast Implant Exchange?
Breast implant exchange involves removing existing breast implants and replacing them with new implants.
Patients may choose implant exchange for many different reasons, including:
● Changing to a larger implant
● Changing to a smaller implant
● Changing the shape or profile of the implant
● Replacing older implants
● Improving breast symmetry
● Replacing a ruptured or damaged implant
● Addressing complications associated with an existing implant
Breast implant exchange is not simply about replacing one implant with another. Your surgeon will assess the breast tissue, existing implant pocket, implant position and overall breast shape before determining the most appropriate surgical plan.
In some cases, additional procedures such as a capsulectomy may be recommended depending on the condition of the capsule and your individual circumstances
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Exchange?
You may be suitable for breast implant exchange if you:
Have existing breast implants
Want to change the size of your implants
Want to change the shape or profile of your implants
Want to replace older implants
Want to improve breast symmetry
Have experienced changes following pregnancy or weight fluctuations
Have a ruptured or damaged implant requiring replacement
Are in suitable health for surgery
You should discuss your circumstances with the surgeon if you:
Had previous breast surgery
Experienced capsular contracture
Suspected implant rupture or leakage
Significant breast asymmetry
Significant breast sagging
Are considering removing your implants completely
Have medical conditions that may affect surgery or healing
Smoke or use nicotine products
Are currently breastfeeding or stopped breastfeeding less than 6 months ago
Your suitability for surgery and the most appropriate surgical approach are determined by the surgeon following an individual assessment.
What Can Breast Implant Exchange Address?
Change Implant Size
One of the most common reasons for implant exchange is to change the size of the breasts. You may wish to increase or decrease your implant size depending on how your current implants look and feel.
Change Implant Shape or Profile
Different implants have different shapes, profiles and characteristics. Your surgeon will assess your existing breast tissue and recommend an implant that is appropriate for your anatomy and desired outcome.
Replace Older Implants
Some patients choose to replace their existing implants after having them for many years. Implant exchange allows the existing implants to be removed and replaced with new implants.
Change Implant Type or Brand
Patients may wish to change the type or brand of their implants.
The appropriate implant will depend on your anatomy, existing breast tissue, implant pocket and surgical goals.
Address Implant Position
In some patients, the position of an implant may have changed over time.
Where appropriate, the surgeon may modify the implant pocket or surrounding tissues as part of the surgical plan.
Address Breast Asymmetry
Breasts are naturally not perfectly symmetrical, and differences may remain following surgery
Where appropriate, implant exchange may be used as part of a plan to improve differences in breast size, shape or position.
Address Changes After Pregnancy or Weight Loss
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant weight changes can alter the breast tissue surrounding implants.
In some cases, implant exchange may be appropriate. In other cases, a breast lift or another procedure may also be recommended.
Breast Implant Exchange vs Breast Revision
These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not always the same thing.
Breast implant exchange specifically refers to removing existing implants and replacing them with new implants.
Breast revision is a broader term that can include implant exchange as well as additional procedures to correct complications or changes to the breasts.
A more complex revision may involve:
● Capsular contracture treatment
● Removal of significant scar tissue
● Implant pocket correction
● Implant rupture treatment
● Correction of implant displacement
● Breast lift
● Fat grafting
● Correction of significant asymmetry
● Reconstruction of the implant pocket
Your surgeon will determine whether a straightforward implant exchange is appropriate or whether additional procedures are required.
The standard package price on this page is based on a standard breast implant exchange using Mentor implants up to 400cc.
Additional procedures or implant upgrades may incur an additional cost.
Your personalised quotation will confirm the final surgical plan and costs.
Breast Implant Options
The implant selected for your surgery will depend on your existing breast tissue, implant pocket, desired size and shape, and your surgeon's recommendation.
Mentor Implants
Our standard package estimate is based on Mentor implants up to 400cc.
Mentor MemoryGel™ Xtra
Mentor MemoryGel™ Xtra implants are available as an alternative implant option
Motiva SmoothSilk® (SilkSurface™)
Motiva SmoothSilk® (SilkSurface™) implants are available as an alternative implant option
Motiva Ergonomix®
Motiva Ergonomix® implants are also available as an alternative implant option.
Implants Above 400cc
Implants above 400cc may be available depending on your surgeon’s recommendation and individual requirements.
Choosing Your Implants
Your surgeon will assess your existing implants, breast tissue, implant pocket and desired outcome before confirming the most appropriate implant size and type.
Breast Implants Above 400cc
If you are considering implants 500cc or larger, these will generally need to be specially ordered in Thailand. Hospitals typically stock a wider range of smaller implant sizes, while larger implants may not be readily available.
For this reason, we recommend having a physical examination with a qualified breast surgeon in your own country before requesting your quote.
Your surgeon can assess your individual anatomy and advise you on the appropriate implant size, shape, profile, type and brand.
This includes the maximum size that may be suitable for you.
Once you have this information, send us your surgeon's recommendations and we can use these details to obtain a quote from Thailand.
Once you are happy with your quote and decide to proceed, we can arrange for your chosen implants to be specially ordered.
Do I Need a Breast Lift With Implant Exchange?
Not every patient who changes their implants needs a breast lift. However, the breast tissue can stretch or change over time due to:
● Ageing
● Pregnancy
● Breastfeeding
● Weight fluctuations
● Previous breast surgery
● Larger implants
● Natural changes to breast tissue
If there is significant breast sagging, simply changing the implant may not provide the result you are looking for.
In these circumstances, your surgeon may recommend combining implant exchange with a breast lift.
A breast lift is not included in the standard implant exchange package and will incur an additional cost if recommended.
Your surgeon will assess the position of your nipples, breast tissue and existing implants before determining whether a lift is appropriate.
Your personalised quotation will confirm any additional procedure and cost.
Breast Implant Exchange and Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that naturally forms around a breast implant becomes unusually firm or tight.
Depending on the severity, it may cause:
● Hardness
● Tightness
● Changes in breast shape
● Pain or discomfort
● Implant displacement
If you have capsular contracture, your surgeon will assess the breast and determine the appropriate treatment. Treatment may require removal or treatment of the capsule in addition to implant exchange.
Additional treatment for significant capsular contracture may incur an additional cost and will be confirmed in your personalised quotation.
Breast Implant Exchange and Implant Rupture
If an implant has ruptured or is suspected to have ruptured, the surgical approach will depend on the type of implant, the extent of the rupture and the surrounding tissues. Your surgeon may recommend:
● Removal of the existing implant
● Replacement with a new implant
● Removal of damaged or leaked material where necessary
● Treatment of surrounding scar tissue
● Additional procedures depending on the circumstances
Implant rupture is a more complex situation than a straightforward implant exchange and may require an additional surgical procedure or cost.
Your surgeon will confirm the appropriate treatment following assessment.
Breast Implant Exchange Consultation
Before you travel, we collect your medical information and photographs and send these to your surgeon for a preliminary assessment. This allows the surgeon to review your case and provide an initial recommendation.
If you have questions about the surgeon's preliminary recommendation, we are happy to go back to the surgeon with your questions so you can feel comfortable and informed before you travel.
During your consultation in Thailand, your surgeon will:
Examine your breasts and assess your existing implants, breast tissue and implant position
Assess breast symmetry and review your previous breast surgery
Discuss your current implants, desired outcome and available implant options, including size, profile and shape
Assess the condition of the breast tissue and surrounding capsule and explain the recommended surgical technique
Explain incision locations, expected scarring, recovery and realistic expectations
Confirm your final implant selection and surgical plan, including any additional procedures if required
Your in-person consultation allows the surgeon to examine you and confirm the final surgical plan before you proceed with surgery.
Pre-Operative Assessment
Before surgery, the hospital will complete the medical assessments required for your procedure. Depending on your age, medical history and individual circumstances, these may include:
Blood tests
ECG
Chest X-ray and breast imaging such as a mammogram or ultrasound where required
Physical examination
Medical history assessment and additional assessments where required
The exact tests required may vary depending on your age, medical history, previous breast surgery and hospital requirements.
Breast Implant Exchange Procedure
Breast implant exchange is performed under general anaesthesia. The exact procedure will depend on your existing implants, breast tissue and surgical plan.
1. Anaesthesia
You will be placed under general anaesthesia before surgery begins.
2. Incision
The surgeon will determine the most appropriate incision location based on your previous surgery and the required procedure. The existing incision may often be used where appropriate.
3. Removal of Existing Implants
The existing implants are carefully removed.
4. Assessment of the Implant Pocket
The surgeon assesses the surrounding tissues and implant pocket. Where necessary, adjustments may be made to improve implant position or breast shape.
5. Treatment of Scar Tissue
If significant scar tissue or capsular contracture is present, the surgeon may treat or remove the capsule as required. Additional treatment may incur an additional cost depending on the complexity.
6. Preparation for the New Implants
The surgeon prepares the implant pocket and confirms that the selected implant is appropriate for the planned result.
7. Placement of New Implants
The new implants are carefully positioned according to the surgical plan.
8. Additional Procedures
If a breast lift or other additional procedure has been included in your surgical plan, this may be performed at the same time.
9. Closure:
The incisions are carefully closed with appropriate sutures
10. Recovery:
You will be monitored in the hospital following surgery and receive post-operative care according to your individual surgical plan. Your Patient Coordinator will be with you on the day of surgery, accompany you at discharge and assist throughout your recovery.
Compression Garments
A surgical or compression bra is recommended following breast implant exchange to support the breasts while they heal.
Compression bras or garments are not included in the standard package unless specifically stated in your quotation.
Your surgical team will advise you on the appropriate garment and how long it should be worn.
Follow your surgeon's garment instructions during recovery.
Breast Implant Exchange Scarring
Breast implant exchange requires an incision to remove the existing implant and place the new implant. Where appropriate, your surgeon may use the existing incision from your previous breast surgery.
The exact incision location will depend on your previous surgery, implant position and the surgical technique required. Scars initially appear more noticeable but generally mature and become less visible over time.
If additional procedures such as a breast lift are performed, additional scars will be required.
Your surgeon will explain the expected incision locations and scarring during your consultation.
Standard Breast Implant Exchange Package (Mentor under 400cc)
$9,940
AUD $8,775
Our standard breast implant exchange package includes:
7 nights' hotel accommodation
Surgeon consultation and surgical fees
General anaesthesia
Hospital fees
1 night hospital stay
Hospital meals where applicable
Standard take-home medications
Airport, hotel and hospital transfers
Follow-up care while in Thailand
Patient coordination and support
5-star accommodation is also available at an additional cost.
Package Exclusions
International flights
Personal expenses
Sightseeing and entertainment
Additional procedures
Additional medical treatment
Stronger prescription medication beyond standard medications provided
Additional accommodation nights
Compression bras or garments
Implant upgrades where applicable
The package estimate below is based on a standard breast implant exchange using Mentor implants up to 400cc. Please note: The package price shown on this page is an example based on one of our hospital and surgeon options. Our surgeons have different fees, and the final package price will depend on your chosen surgeon, hospital and individual surgical requirements. Your personalised quotation will confirm the exact price.
Implant Upgrade Costs
The standard package estimate is based on Mentor implants up to 400cc.
An additional cost will apply if you choose or require:
● Mentor MemoryGel™ Xtra
● Motiva SmoothSilk® (SilkSurface™)
● Motiva Ergonomix®
● Mentor implants above 400cc
● Other implant upgrades
● Additional procedures required as part of your surgical plan
Your personalised quotation will clearly identify the implant selected and any additional costs.
Your final implant selection is confirmed with your surgeon during your consultation in Thailand.
Mentor implants up to 400cc are included in the estimate.
Upgrades are individually quoted.
Implant availability will be confirmed.
Your final quotation confirms all upgrade costs.
Additional Procedures
Depending on your individual circumstances, your surgeon may recommend additional procedures such as:
● Breast lift
● Capsular contracture treatment
● Capsule removal
● Implant pocket correction
● Treatment of implant rupture
● Fat grafting
● Correction of significant asymmetry
● Other breast revision procedures
These procedures are not included in the standard implant exchange package unless specifically stated in your quotation.
Your surgeon will determine whether additional treatment is required.
Your personalised quotation will confirm the final package price.
Additional procedures are individually assessed.
Only procedures stated in your quotation are included.
Your Breast Implant Exchange Journey With MediCation Tours
Enquiry
Complete our free quote form, provide as much information as you can and upload your photos following the photo instructions.
Surgeon Assessment & Quote
Once our surgeons have assessed your medical information and photographs, we will provide you with a choice of 4-star or 5-star procedure packages, including your hospital stay, accommodation, airport, hospital and hotel transfers, and support from your Patient Coordinator.
Before You Travel
We send you all the important information you need to prepare for your trip, including what to pack as well as your itinerary and where to meet your driver when you arrive in Thailand.
4
Consultation & Surgery
You will meet with your surgeon in Thailand before surgery to confirm your treatment plan. Your Patient Coordinator will be right there with you to guide you through the process and answer any questions.
5
Recovery in Thailand
After your hospital stay, you will return to your hotel to continue your recovery. You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon at the hospital, and your Patient Coordinator will assist with this and keep you informed.
6
Returning Home
Before you return home, you will see your surgeon for your final review, including any required stitch removal and post-operative care instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need or want a breast implant exchange?
Is breast implant exchange the same as breast revision?
What implants are included in the standard package?
Can I choose a different implant?
Can I change to a larger implant?
Can I change to a smaller implant?
Can I have a breast lift with implant exchange?
What if I have capsular contracture?
What if my implant has ruptured?
How long does breast implant exchange take?
Is breast implant exchange performed under general anaesthesia?
How long will I stay in Thailand?
Can my partner or companion stay with me?
Will I have a Patient Coordinator?
Will I have scars?
How long will I be swollen?
When can I exercise?
When will I see my final result?
How long do the results last?
Can I have breast implant exchange after pregnancy?
Can I have implant exchange after significant weight loss?
Can I receive a quote before travelling to Thailand?
What happens if I have questions about my surgeon's recommendation?
Related Procedures
Explore related procedures that may be discussed alongside breast implant exchange, depending on your goals and your surgeon's recommendation.
