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RENEWED IMPLANTS. LIFTED CONFIDENCE.

Breast Implant Exchange & Lift

Replace ageing or problematic implants while lifting and reshaping your breasts — a combined approach for a refreshed, natural result.

ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE

Exchange, Refine & Restore

Breast implant exchange is performed to replace existing implants — whether due to complications, age-related changes, or a desire to alter size or profile. Depending on the issue to be addressed and the patient’s preferences, the procedure can range from straightforward to more complex, potentially involving repositioning the implant above or below the chest muscle, changing implant size, or removing a tight internal scar (capsulectomy).

Over time, a combination of ageing, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations can cause the breast tissue or implants to sag, leading to a changed breast shape. When this occurs, a breast lift (mastopexy) performed alongside implant exchange can restore both the position and appearance of the breasts. The decision is highly individualised — Professor Hindocha will carefully assess all contributing factors to recommend the most appropriate lift technique for your anatomy.

By combining both procedures in a single operation, patients benefit from a more comprehensive transformation with just one recovery period, making this an efficient and effective solution for women seeking to refresh their breast appearance.

PROCEDURE OVERVIEW

What to Expect

Key facts about your breast implant exchange and lift surgery.

3 Hours

Surgery Time

General

Anaesthesia

Day Case

Hospital Stay

No

Drains

6 Weeks

Supporting Garment

The exact surgical approach — augmentation, reduction, lift or combination — is determined at consultation based on your individual anatomy and goals.

RECOVERY TIMELINE

Your Path to Recovery

Week 1–2

Follow-Up Appointments

You will be seen by the team at your first and second week after discharge to monitor healing, assess the wound, and address any questions.

Week 2–3

Return to Light Work

Most patients are able to resume light, sedentary work within 2–3 weeks. Avoid any activity that causes discomfort or strain to the chest area.

Week 4

Moderate Activity

Moderately physical tasks can be gradually reintroduced at around four weeks, provided healing is progressing well and there is no discomfort.

Week 6

Full Exercise Resumed

By six weeks, most patients can return to full exercise including gym workouts. Continue wearing your sports bra throughout this period for optimal support.

RISKS & RECOVERY

Risks & What to Expect

All surgery carries risks. Professor Hindocha will discuss these in full at your consultation — transparency is central to how we work.

Potential Risks

  • Infection or wound healing complications
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation
  • Asymmetry in shape or position
  • Capsular contracture recurrence
  • Implant rippling or visibility
  • Scarring from the lift incisions
  • Anaesthetic risks (discussed pre-operatively)

What to Expect

On the day of surgery, you will be admitted to hospital and assessed by the anaesthetist before theatre. The procedure takes around three hours and you will recover in a comfortable ward setting before being discharged the same day with a supportive garment in place.

You will experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness in the first week — this is entirely normal. Most patients describe the discomfort as manageable with prescribed medication. Professor Hindocha and the clinical team are available throughout your recovery to answer questions and guide your healing.

Final results are typically visible within 3–6 months once swelling has fully resolved and the implants have settled into position.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

A Natural, Refreshed Appearance

Combining implant exchange with a breast lift delivers comprehensive results that neither procedure alone can achieve — restoring both the quality and position of your breasts.

  • Updated implants that better reflect your current goals and lifestyle
  • Firmer, lifted breast contour with improved projection
  • Correction of implant complications such as capsular contracture
  • Refreshed symmetry and proportion across the chest
  • A natural-looking result with a single, combined recovery

WHY CHOOSE THIS PROCEDURE

The Benefits of Breast Implant Exchange & Lift

Address Multiple Concerns at Once

Combining implant exchange and a breast lift means tackling implant-related issues and breast sagging in a single operation, reducing overall downtime and the need for multiple procedures.

Personalised to Your Anatomy

Every aspect of the procedure — implant type, size, placement, and lift technique — is tailored to your specific anatomy, existing implants, and aesthetic goals.

Long-Lasting Results

By refreshing the implants and repositioning the breast tissue simultaneously, the results are designed to be durable and age gracefully over time.

Specialist Surgical Expertise

Professor Hindocha brings extensive experience in complex revision breast surgery, ensuring the safest, most precise approach for patients with existing implants.

SPECIALIST EXPERTISE

Why Choose Professor Hindocha?

Revision breast surgery demands a surgeon with a thorough understanding of breast anatomy, implant behaviour, and the nuances of lift technique. Professor Hindocha has spent years specialising in complex breast procedures, making him one of the most experienced surgeons for patients seeking implant exchange with lift.

His approach is always led by your anatomy and goals — never by a one-size-fits-all technique. Every recommendation is made with clinical precision and a commitment to natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Revision Surgery Specialist

Extensive experience in revision and complex breast surgery, with a focus on natural outcomes and patient safety.

Highly Individualised Planning

No two patients are the same. Every surgical plan is built around your anatomy, your existing implants, and your personal goals.

End-to-End Continuity of Care

From consultation to post-operative review, Professor Hindocha and his clinical team are with you at every stage of your journey.

PATIENT STORIES

What Our Patients Say


I had my implants for over ten years and they just didn’t look right anymore. Professor Hindocha replaced them and lifted everything at the same time — the results are incredible. I feel completely renewed.

— S.M.


After two pregnancies my breasts had really changed shape around my implants. The combined exchange and lift has given me back the confidence I lost. Absolutely worth it.

— L.T.


I was nervous about revision surgery but the consultation put me completely at ease. The whole process was professional and the outcome exceeded what I hoped for.

— R.K.

IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Who Is a Good Candidate?

This combined procedure is best suited to women who already have breast implants and are experiencing one or more of the following:

  • Implants that are ageing, damaged, or causing complications
  • Capsular contracture (hardening around the implant)
  • Breast sagging or drooping that has developed since original augmentation
  • A desire to change implant size, shape, or profile
  • Volume loss following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight change
  • Good overall health with realistic expectations for the outcome

YOUR CONSULTATION

What Happens at Your Consultation?

Your consultation is a private, unhurried appointment with Professor Hindocha. There is no commitment to proceed — it is simply a chance to explore your options.

01

Medical History & Assessment

Professor Hindocha will review your full medical history, discuss your current implants (type, age, any symptoms), and carry out a clinical examination to understand the condition of your breast tissue and the position of your implants.

02

Options & Recommendations

Together, you will discuss your goals and concerns. Professor Hindocha will present your options — including implant choices, lift technique, and whether imaging (such as an ultrasound) is recommended — and give an honest view on what is achievable and appropriate for you.

03

Your Personalised Plan

If you decide to proceed, a full surgical plan is prepared — covering technique, timing, and pre-operative requirements. You will receive written information to take home and consider, with no pressure to commit on the day.

EXPLORE FURTHER

Related Procedures

Other procedures you may wish to explore.

BREAST SURGERY

Breast Implant Removal & Lift

Remove existing implants and lift the breasts for a natural, implant-free result.

BREAST SURGERY

Breast Augmentation & Lift

Enhance breast volume and lift the breast position in a single, combined procedure.

BREAST SURGERY

Breast Lift

Reshape and reposition the breasts for a firmer, more youthful silhouette.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Ready to Refresh Your Results?

Book today.

If you are considering updating your implants or addressing changes to your breast shape, a consultation with Professor Hindocha will help you understand your options and plan the most appropriate approach for you.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Common Questions

Everything you need to know about breast implant exchange and lift.

Signs that your implants may need exchanging include changes in breast shape, hardening around the implant (capsular contracture), implant rippling or movement, or implants that are over 10–15 years old. A consultation with Professor Hindocha will include a clinical assessment to determine the best course of action.
Yes. The exchange procedure offers an opportunity to change the size, profile, or type of implant. Many patients choose to go slightly larger, smaller, or switch to a different profile to better suit their current goals and body.
Not always. A lift is recommended when there is significant drooping of the breast tissue or nipple that cannot be corrected by the implant alone. Professor Hindocha will assess your anatomy during consultation to advise whether a lift is beneficial in your case.
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that naturally forms around an implant tightens, causing the breast to feel firm or look distorted. During implant exchange, this scar tissue can be removed or released — a capsulectomy — alongside placement of new implants.
Modern implants are designed to last many years, and the results of a combined exchange and lift can be long-lasting. Natural ageing, weight changes, and pregnancy can affect the breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight and following post-operative advice will help preserve your results.
Scarring will depend on the lift technique used and your individual healing. Professor Hindocha uses the least invasive technique appropriate for your anatomy to minimise scarring. Scars typically fade significantly over 12–18 months and can often be concealed within the natural breast fold or around the areola.