Prosthesis replacement with breast lift

An implant exchange without a lift corrects the implant, but not the breast itself.

If the skin and breast tissue have stretched, the breast will also sag over the new implant again.

With a lift:

• the breast is lifted and reshaped

• the nipple is brought back to a central position

• the proportions between the breast and the implant can be restored

The implant then serves as structural support and volume—not as camouflage.

Over time, we often see that breasts not only sag, but also rotate outward. As a result, the cleavage becomes wider and less defined.

During an implant exchange with a lift, we pay close attention to:

• repositioning the breast

• choosing the correct implant diameter (width is often more important than cc’s)

• providing support toward the centre

This way, we restore not only height, but also harmony and cleavage.

For more in-depth information, we refer you to our separate page on correcting an overly wide space between the breasts (cleavage gap).

In almost every implant exchange with a lift, we use a form of internal bra technique. Especially in corrective surgery, support is crucial to help prevent renewed sagging.

Depending on the situation, we may use:

• the existing capsule around the implant

• your own connective tissue

• a small portion of muscle

• in selected cases: a dissolvable supportive material

The chosen technique is always tailored to your anatomy and medical history.

With an implant exchange, we don’t look at volume alone, but primarily at:

• shape

• softness

• diameter

• how it relates to your chest frame

Often, choosing a different implant type or shape results in a more natural and more stable outcome than simply going “bigger or smaller.”

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes several hours. You will usually stay one night at the clinic.

During the procedure:

• the old implants are removed

• the capsule is adjusted if necessary

• the breast is lifted and reshaped

• new implants are placed

• and structural support is added

Recovery is similar to that of a breast lift:

• swelling and tenderness during the first weeks

• wearing a supportive bra

• light activities after 1–2 weeks

• gradually building up sports and heavy exercise

We only assess the final result after a few months.

An implant exchange with a lift can result in:

• a higher and firmer breast

• restored proportions between the breast and the implant

• a more beautifully shaped cleavage

• a more natural and more youthful breast appearance

Not “back to how it used to be,” but in balance with who you are today.

Scars

A breast lift almost always results in an anchor-shaped scar: around the areola, vertically downward, and along the breast fold. These scars usually fade well, but they remain permanent.

Nipple sensation

Repositioning the nipple can lead to changes in sensation. In most cases, the majority of sensation is preserved, but this cannot be guaranteed.

General risks

As with any breast surgery:

• bleeding

• infection

• wound-healing problems

• capsular contracture

Rare specific complication

A very rare but serious complication is (partial) loss of the nipple due to impaired blood supply. Risk factors include:

• smoking

• a previous lift

• significant nipple repositioning

If applicable, this will always be discussed in detail beforehand.