What Issues Can Breast Implant Revision Treat? (Updated 2026)

Breast implant revision addresses concerns that develop after breast augmentation, including changes in implant size preferences, capsular contracture, implant rupture, rippling, malposition, and other aesthetic or functional issues. Depending on your needs, revision surgery may involve replacing implants, adjusting the implant pocket, performing a breast lift, or removing implants altogether.

Below are some of the most common reasons patients seek breast implant revision and how these concerns can be treated.

Desire for Larger or Smaller Implants

Following breast augmentation, patients will sometimes decide to change their implants to a larger or smaller size. We have reduced the incidence of this with our own patients at the Parker Center by using our sizing and shaping program.

Changing to Larger Breast Implants

The 39-year-old patient pictured below had 350 cc saline implants inserted initially by Dr. Parker. Though happy with her result, the patient returned later requesting larger implants and ultimately chose 550 cc silicone implants. Dr. Parker removed and replaced her implants through the existing incisions.

Changing to Smaller Breast Implants

The patient pictured below had 400 cc saline implants inserted by another plastic surgeon. She felt the implants were too large and heavy, so Dr. Parker replaced them with 325 cc silicone implants and performed a breast lift to remove excess skin. When changing to smaller implants, Dr. Parker surgically reduces the breast pocket with sutures to fit the smaller size.

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Capsular Contracture Correction

After breast augmentation, the body forms a layer of scar tissue around the implant called a breast capsule. If this capsule hardens and tightens, the breast can become distorted and uncomfortable, a condition known as capsular contracture.

Treatment typically involves surgically removing the capsule and replacing the implant, often using the original incision. In some cases, Dr. Parker can address the pain, breast firmness, and distortion of implants nonsurgically with the Aspen Ultrasound System.

The patient pictured below developed left breast capsular contracture 2 years after the insertion of 375 cc silicone implants. Dr. Parker removed the capsules and implants on both sides and inserted 475 cc silicone implants.

Treatment for Rippling & Palpability

In some patients, breast implants may be visible or palpable beneath the skin, particularly when natural breast tissue is limited or when implants are placed above the chest muscle. To reduce rippling and improve the feel of the breasts, Dr. Parker can replace the implants with silicone implants in a partial submuscular pocket.

The patient pictured below developed visible and palpable rippling after receiving subglandular saline implants from another plastic surgeon. Dr. Parker replaced her implants with 400 cc silicone implants in a partial submuscular location and reduced the size of her areolas at her request.

Implant Deflation or Leak Correction

Breast implants do not need to be replaced after a specific number of years, but implant deflation, rupture, or leakage can occur over time. A leaking saline implant is usually easy to detect because the affected breast quickly loses volume, while a ruptured silicone implant may not cause noticeable changes and often requires imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI for diagnosis.

The patient pictured below experienced a spontaneous deflation of her right saline implant 15 years after her original breast augmentation. Dr. Parker removed her existing implants and replaced them with larger silicone implants to restore symmetry and achieve her desired result.

‘Double Bubble’ Deformity Treatment

A “double bubble” deformity (inframammary fold asymmetry) occurs when an implant drops below the inframammary fold, creating a visible crease or asymmetry beneath the breast. Treatment typically involves repositioning the implant and reconstructing the inframammary fold using internal sutures.

The patient pictured below developed a double bubble deformity after breast augmentation performed by another plastic surgeon. Using her existing periareolar incisions, Dr. Parker reconstructed the inframammary fold, repositioned the implant, and reduced the size of her areolas at her request.

Implant Malposition Correction

Implant malposition occurs when one or both breast implants shift out of their intended position, creating asymmetry or an unnatural appearance. Depending on the issue, treatment may involve adjusting the implant pockets and repositioning the implants using the existing incisions.

The patient pictured below sought correction 6 years after breast augmentation performed by another plastic surgeon because her implants sat too far apart. Dr. Parker revised the implant pockets, removed scar tissue, and replaced her implants with 300 cc silicone implants to create a more natural appearance and improved cleavage.

Recalled Implants (PIP Implants)

French PIP (Poly Implant Prosthesis) breast implants were recalled after it was discovered that the manufacturer used nonmedical-grade silicone and substandard implant shells, increasing the risk of rupture and leakage. Although these implants were never approved in the United States, some patients who received breast augmentation abroad may still have them. If PIP implants are present, removal and replacement are generally recommended.

The patient pictured below underwent breast augmentation in South America and later learned she had PIP implants. Imaging revealed a rupture of her right implant, though she had no symptoms. Dr. Parker removed both implants and replaced them with 475 cc silicone implants during the same procedure.

Breast Implant Removal

Some patients choose to remove their breast implants because of discomfort, complications, or a change in aesthetic preferences. Dr. Parker performs breast implant removal, also known as explantation, using the existing incision whenever possible.

The patient pictured below requested the removal of saline implants that had been placed several years earlier by another plastic surgeon. Because she had never been fully comfortable with her implants and no longer wanted them, Dr. Parker removed them through her existing periareolar incisions without replacement. After surgery, she reported that the tightness she had experienced was gone and was pleased with her decision to remove the implants.

Considering Implant Replacement or Removal?

Whether you’re experiencing a complication, want a different implant size, or are considering implant removal, Dr. Parker can help you understand your options and develop a treatment plan tailored to your goals. Request a your consultation or call us at (201) 967-1212 to schedule your appointment.

* Keep in mind that each patient is unique, and your results may vary.

This post was originally published in 2020 and updated in 2026.