Reasons for revision
Capsular contracture (a hard, sometimes painful breast), rupture, implants that have dropped or moved sideways, rippling, a wish for a different size, or simply implants that are many years old. Some women prefer to remove their implants entirely; after removal a breast lift or fat transfer helps restore shape. Many UK and Irish patients look for breast implant replacement in Turkey because a revision at home is often more expensive than the original operation.
The operation
The old implants are removed, usually through the previous scar. Depending on the case the surgeon releases or removes the scar capsule (capsulotomy or capsulectomy), changes the implant pocket and places new certified implants, or closes the pocket if the implants are not replaced. If the capsule is thick, calcified or there is a suspicion of a problem, it is sent to the laboratory for examination.
Implant revision at New City Clinic
Revision surgery needs careful planning because every case is different. At New City Clinic the surgeon asks for photos, your previous implant card or operation report if you have it, and a recent ultrasound or MRI if a rupture is suspected. You then receive a plan explaining whether the implants will be exchanged or removed, how the capsule will be treated and whether a lift is advisable.
See breast implant revision at New City Clinic for the clinic’s overview, and read implant replacement and removal in Turkey and breast implants: safety, aftercare and removal on the clinic blog.
Exchange, removal or removal with a lift?
There are three main options:
- Exchange: new implants, of the same or a different size, often in a new or adjusted pocket. Suits women happy with having implants but not with the current ones.
- Removal (explantation): the implants and usually the capsules are removed. Suits women who no longer want implants. With small implants and good skin the breast often recovers well.
- Removal with a lift or fat transfer: after large implants or many years, the skin may be stretched; a lift or fat transfer restores shape without new implants. See breast lift without implants.
Preparing for surgery
Collect any documents from your first operation – implant card, hospital letter, operation notes – and any recent scans. Stop smoking at least four weeks before and after surgery, and pause blood-thinning medicines as instructed. If you have symptoms such as sudden swelling of one breast long after the original operation, tell the surgeon: this needs investigation before any revision.
Recovery and risks
Recovery is similar to a first augmentation. A drain may be used after capsulectomy and removed before you leave hospital or at the first check. You wear a support bra for about six weeks. Risks include seroma (fluid collection), especially after capsulectomy, recurrent contracture, asymmetry, bleeding, infection and the general risks of surgery.
Results and what to expect
After an exchange, a softer and better-positioned breast; after removal, a smaller and often more natural breast, which may look flatter for the first months and then settle. Shape continues to improve for three to six months. If you have had implants for many years, the surgeon will be honest about how much the skin can recover.
Price in Istanbul vs the UK
At New City Clinic implant replacement or removal costs from €3,000 to €4,300, depending on capsule treatment, new implants and whether a lift is added. In the UK, private implant revision typically costs the equivalent of €6,000–€9,000. You receive a fixed written price after the assessment. See our prices page and the official newcityclinic.com price list.
Long-term care
If you have new implants, keep your new implant card, tell your doctors and radiologists, and have the breasts checked if they change. After removal, normal breast screening continues as usual. Our breast implants guide explains implant longevity and follow-up.
Signs that your implants need attention
- A breast that has become harder, rounder or higher than the other, sometimes painful – typical of capsular contracture.
- A change in shape, size or a lump, or an ultrasound or MRI showing a rupture.
- Implants that have dropped below the crease or moved towards the armpit.
- Visible rippling or implant edges, especially in slim women.
- Sudden swelling of one breast years after surgery – this must always be checked by a doctor.
Not every old implant needs to be replaced. If your breasts are soft, comfortable and look good, regular check-ups may be all you need. If you are unsure, send photos and any scan reports for a free opinion.
Choosing your surgeon
Revision surgery is more complex than a first augmentation: scar tissue, a stretched pocket and thinner tissue all need to be managed. Choose a plastic surgeon experienced in revision, who explains what will be done with the capsule and the pocket, and who tells you honestly whether new implants, removal or a lift is the best option. Ask for the brand of any new implant in writing. You can meet the New City Clinic surgeons on the official website.
Implant removal: what to expect
Many women now choose to have their implants removed without replacing them. After removal the breast is smaller and may look flatter or slightly lower for the first months, as the skin contracts and the tissue settles. With small implants and good skin elasticity, the result is often natural. With large implants, thin tissue or after pregnancy, a lift at the same time usually gives a much better shape. Fat transfer can restore some volume. The surgeon discusses these options with you during the assessment.
For UK and Irish patients
Many patients who contact New City Clinic for revision had their original operation in the UK, Ireland or elsewhere abroad. They often find that revision at home is expensive or involves a long wait. In Istanbul the procedure is usually scheduled within weeks, with about six to seven days’ stay. Bring every document you have from your first operation, and read our travel guide for practical planning.
Combining revision with other procedures
An implant exchange can be combined with a breast lift when the breast has dropped, with fat transfer to improve coverage of the new implant, or with body contouring in the same stay. Combinations are planned only when the total operating time and your health allow it. The aim is always the best long-term shape, not the largest number of procedures in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the stay in Istanbul for implant revision?
Usually six to seven days, so the surgeon can check the breasts and, if a drain was used, remove it before you fly.
Can I replace my implants and have a lift at the same time?
Yes, this is a very common combination when the breast has dropped over the years.
Do I need my previous implant details?
It helps. Send your implant card or operation report if you have it, along with any recent ultrasound or MRI.
Can I have my implants removed without replacing them?
Yes. Removal with or without capsulectomy is possible, and a lift or fat transfer can improve shape at the same time if the skin is stretched.
How much does implant replacement cost in Turkey?
At New City Clinic it costs from €3,000 to €4,300 all-inclusive, depending on the work needed. The exact price is fixed after the online assessment.
Is capsulectomy always necessary?
No. It depends on the condition of the capsule, the type of implant and the reason for revision. The surgeon explains the choice in your plan.
My implants were put in abroad. Can you still help?
Yes. Many revision patients had their first surgery elsewhere. Send whatever documents you have; the surgeon can usually plan without them if needed.