Breast Implant Revision in NYC
Addressing Capsular Contracture, Implant Rupture, and Changes Over Time
This procedure replaces or removes existing implants to provide comfort and help women achieve their new aesthetic goals. Dr. M. Zakir Sabry is a highly skilled plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive breast operations. He helps patients correct capsular contracture, rupture, malposition, and other issues by exchanging older implants for newer models or removing them completely. Breast implant revision restores the appearance and feel of the breasts, resulting in increased satisfaction.
Depending on the reason for the revision—such as complications or reconstructive needs—insurance may cover part or all of the procedure. We assist patients in determining eligibility and accept out-of-network insurance if coverage is available.
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What Is Breast Implant Revision?
Breast implant revision is a surgery that replaces or removes existing breast implants. It is done when a patient is dissatisfied with the results of the original breast augmentation or if there are complications with the implants. The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours and is done under general anesthesia. Patients can choose from a variety of implant options to enhance their appearance and feel more confident.
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Does Insurance Cover Breast Implant Revision?
Navigating insurance coverage for breast implant revision can be complex, but understanding your options is crucial. Our practice will help you check your benefits, access the care you need, and ensure a smooth process from start to finish. Below are some cases where breast implant revision may be covered by insurance:
- Medical necessity due to implant rupture or leakage
- Capsular contracture (Baker III & IV levels)
- Removal of implants due to chronic pain or infection
What Are the Types of Breast Implant Revision?
Removal of Breast Implants
Breast implant removal involves extracting implants placed during augmentation and eliminating the surrounding scar tissue capsule. It may be done to address complications, improve comfort, or satisfy new aesthetic goals. The implants are removed through the original incision site or a new opening under the breast or around the areola. After the procedure, the breasts are lifted and restored to their original size.
Breast Implant Exchange
Breast implant replacement (or exchange) involves removing the existing implants and inserting new ones. It is commonly done to change the implant type, size, or shape. For example, some patients want to replace their old silicone implants with newer “gummy bear” models. The old devices are removed, and the better ones are inserted through the original incisions or additional openings.
How Do I Prepare for Breast Implant Revision?
Why Choose Murray Hill Plastic Surgery for Breast Implant Revision?
At Murray Hill Plastic Surgery, our philosophy is rooted in patient-first care and a conservative, thoughtful approach that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.
Dr. M. Zakir Sabry brings more than nine years of intensive surgical training to your care, having completed full general surgery training, a plastic surgery residency, and a craniofacial surgery fellowship. He also serves as an Assistant Professor at New York Medical College and has performed more than 1,000 aesthetic procedures. This foundation allows him to approach each breast reduction with deep anatomical understanding, technical precision, and an appreciation for the individuality of every patient’s body.
We don’t upsell, over-operate, or push procedures that don’t serve your needs. Instead, we take the time to understand what you’re experiencing physically and emotionally (and whether surgery is even the right next step). We often say, “less is more,” because our focus is on natural, functional improvement rather than drastic change.
You’ll meet with Dr. Sabry directly from the start, spend real time discussing your goals, and receive a tailored surgical plan that reflects your anatomy, your priorities, and what will genuinely bring you the best outcome. Our team is small, attentive, and easy to reach, and our follow-up care is more personal than what many larger NYC practices offer.
We see you, we hear you, and we treat you like we would treat a family member: with honesty, empathy, and respect.
What Are The Benefits of Breast Implant Revision?
Improved Appearance
This surgery allows women to correct cosmetic concerns with their existing breast implants. During revision, the old devices can be replaced with new ones to improve breast contours, symmetry, and proportion. Plastic surgeons may also adjust the placement of the implants to achieve a more natural, aesthetic result.
Correcting Complications
Revision surgery provides an opportunity to correct complications from the initial breast augmentation. Some common reasons for the operation include capsular contracture, implant rupture/deflation, and malposition. Replacing the old implants and surrounding scar tissue can help resolve these issues.
Updating Implant Technology
Restoring Peace of Mind
Women who have concerns about their existing breast implants may find reassurance in replacing them. Even if the original implants function properly, peace of mind is an essential benefit of revision surgery for some patients. The procedure allows them to start fresh with new implants they feel confident about.
What Happens During The Breast Implant Revision Procedure?
Anesthesia
Breast implant revision is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means that the patient is fully asleep and unaware during the procedure. General anesthesia is provided intravenously, and the patient is continuously monitored by an anesthesiologist. Dr. Sabry can also perform breast revision surgery under local anesthesia with sedation.
Incisions
Dr. Sabry makes incisions on the inframammary fold (under the breast) to access the breast implants. The extent of the cuts depends on the implant type and degree of capsular contracture.
Implant Removal
Through the incisions, Dr. Sabry removes the existing implants and takes care to avoid damaging the surrounding breast tissue. The implant capsule is also extracted.
Implant Pocket Preparation
After removing the old augments, Dr. Sabry prepares the implant pockets. This may involve releasing scar tissue adhesions, modifying pocket dimensions, draining fluid accumulations, and irrigating the area. Proper preparation helps position the new breast implants and reduces capsular contracture risk.
Insertion
New devices are inserted through the incisions and carefully positioned. If saline implants are chosen, Dr. Sabry fills the shell with salt water to create the desired form and size.
Breast Lift
If the implant is extracted without replacement, Dr. Sabry performs a breast lift to remove excess skin and create a perky shape. This procedure may also be needed if the patient wants to replace their implants with smaller ones.
Incision Closure
Incisions are closed with sutures to facilitate proper healing. Temporary drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup. Bandages and a surgical bra are also applied to support recovery.
Who Are Candidates for Breast Implant Revision?
Breast revision surgery is a common procedure because many women are dissatisfied with the outcomes of their primary breast augmentation. They may receive subpar results due to post-operative complications or some internal factors. Candidates for breast implant revision typically have the following characteristics:
Dissatisfied With Breast Implant Size or Shape
Some women are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their implants after initial breast augmentation surgery. They may feel their breasts look or feel too large or too small. Others might want to change the profile from round to teardrop-shaped implants.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs after initial breast surgery. Scar tissue forms around the implant, tightening and making the breast feel firm. It can be painful and cause visible distortion of the shape. Women with significant capsular contractures that have not improved with other treatments can undergo revision surgery to remove the scar tissue and replace the implant.
Implant Malposition
Breast implants that have shifted out of place or rotated may require revision. Signs of malposition include asymmetry, bottoming out, or palpable implant edges. Revision surgery can reposition or replace the implant and repair any surrounding stretched tissues to restore proper placement and breast contour.
Leaking or Ruptured Implants
Saline and silicone implants can occasionally leak or rupture. This may cause pain, breast changes, and implant deflation. Women with a ruptured or leaking implant need revision surgery to remove or replace it.
What Can I Expect During Recovery After Breast Implant Revision Surgery?
The recovery process depends on the type of revision that was performed. Patients with implant replacement return home in a comfortable surgical bra with adjustable straps. After the operation, they may feel tired and sore, but this is easily managed with medication. Discomfort usually passes after a few days of acute symptoms.
Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks. We recommend avoiding all exercise, heavy lifting, and other more strenuous activities for at least one month. Energy levels are usually low, so it’s crucial to take enough time to rest and recharge. If the job involves a lot of upper-body movements, we recommend taking 10-14 days off.
Postoperative pain, swelling, and sensitivity diminish over the first few weeks. Patients meet Dr. Sabry several times to remove sutures, monitor the healing process, and ask any questions.
Complications
Complications after breast implant revision are uncommon and usually minimal. Under Dr. Sabry’s expert and meticulous care, all measures are taken to avoid risks. They may include capsular contracture, seroma (fluid accumulation), infection around the implant, a change in nipple sensation, asymmetry, implant migration, unfavorable scarring, and breakage or leakage of the implant (implant rupture) as a result of injury or the normal compression and movement of the breast.
What Is the Cost of Breast Implant Revision in NYC?
The cost of breast implant revision in NYC ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. The price varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, and the type of anesthesia used. In addition, switching to larger breast implants and replacing silicone gel implants with saline ones may raise the total costs.
Our patients can receive accurate price quotes during the initial consultation with Dr. Sabry. Insurance companies may cover some of these expenses if the case is considered medically necessary. Murray Hill Plastic Surgery also offers credit plans from our partners, Alphaeon and Cherry.
Schedule Your Murray Hill Breast Implant Revision Surgery
When you’re ready, we’re here to walk this journey with you. To get started, simply contact us online or call (212) 737-1308 to schedule your consultation with Dr. M. Zakir Sabry and our team today. We are located in Murray Hill, Manhattan, and proudly serve patients visiting from NYC, New York State, and throughout the nation.