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Implant Removal or Replacement
If you’re considering breast implant exchange or removal surgery in Essex, Mat Griffiths offers expert care to help you achieve your desired look. Specialising in all aspects of breast surgery, Mat serves patients in Brentwood, Chelmsford, and Colchester.
Key Info
-
Duration:
1 - 2 hours -
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthetic -
Admission:
1 overnight stay -
Locations:
Chelmsford, Brentwood
& Colchester
Recovery
- 1 – 2 weeks off work
- No driving for 1 week
- No exercise or vigorous activity for 6 weeks
- Follow-Up Appointments:
- 1 & 6 weeks
- 3 & 6 months
Potential Risks & Complications of Surgery
Like any surgery, the implant removal or replacement procedure poses both frequent and infrequent risks for patients.
Frequent: Bruising, swelling, altered breast sensation, temporary discomfort
Infrequent: Infection, delayed wound healing, bleeding, poor scarring, asymmetry, capsular contracture, implant rupture (in replacements), need for further surgery.
the first step of your journey
Let's Get Started
With a Consultation
As the first step of your journey, we like to see every cosmetic patient for a relaxed and personal consultation to discuss all aspects of your procedure.
Fill in and submit our enquiry form to get started.
Or Contact the Mat Griffiths Team Directly:
Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Explant Breast Surgery: What to Expect
Explant surgery involves the removal of existing breast implants and, if necessary, the surrounding scar tissue (‘en bloc’ capsulectomy surgery). This procedure can be for personal reasons, due to medical concerns, or simply because of a change in aesthetic preference.
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, typically taking between 1 to 2 hours. Depending on your needs, Mat Griffiths will either remove the implants alone or replace them with new ones.
Whether you opt for implant removal or replacement, Mat provides a personalised approach, ensuring you understand each step and feel confident in your decision.
Implant Removal/Replacement on Finance
Finance Options Available
Finance options are available at select locations. Please enquire with our team for more information on available plans.
Breast Implant Removal/Replacement Surgery in Essex
What Happens During Implant Removal or Replacement Surgery?
During the surgery, Mat Griffiths carefully removes the old implants, often using the original incision sites to minimise additional scarring. If you choose to replace the implants, the new ones are inserted into the existing pockets.
For a size change, the pockets are adjusted to ensure a proper fit. Mat takes great care to provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing outcome. In some cases, additional procedures like a breast lift (mastopexy) may be recommended to achieve the best results.
Mat’s expertise and commitment to patient satisfaction ensure that your surgery is tailored to your unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about implant replacement and organised them in a single, easy-to-read section.
By providing clear, straightforward answers, we aim to give you the information you need to feel confident and reassured before making any decisions about surgery.
This means less time searching for answers, more time focusing on your goals, and a smoother journey from first consultation to feeling confident in your results.
Who is breast implant removal surgery suitable for?
Breast implant removal surgery may be recommended if:
- You have decided you no longer want implants
You are unhappy with the size, shape, or position of your implants - Your implants have become hard or misshapen due to capsular contracture
- Your implants are made by PIP and you would like them removed
- You are experiencing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness
- You are planning another procedure and wish to update or remove your implants at the same time
A good candidate is generally someone in good health who either requires replacement due to implant-related problems or simply wishes to have their implants removed.
Are there any risks from breast implant removal surgery?
As with any surgery, breast implant removal carries some potential risks. These may be common and temporary, or less frequent but more serious.
More common risks include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
Less common risks include:
- Infection
- Problems with wound healing
- Bleeding
- Poor scarring
- Changes to breast shape or asymmetry
- Complete or partial loss of the nipple (a rare but serious complication)
Mr. Griffiths will explain these risks in detail during your consultation and take every precaution to ensure your safety.
How long does breast implant removal or exchange surgery take?
The procedure typically takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
A straightforward implant exchange is often quicker, while surgery that includes additional procedures, such as a breast uplift, will take longer.
When is the right time for breast implant exchange?
There isn’t a set timeline for replacing breast implants, as it varies from person to person. However, implant exchange may be recommended if you develop problems with your implants, such as changes in shape, hardness, or discomfort, or if you have had them for 10 years or more.
Mr. Griffiths will guide you on whether replacement is the best option based on your individual circumstances.
What are my options for new breast implants during exchange?
When your old implants are removed, you can choose to replace them with implants of the same size, type, and shape, or opt for something completely different to better suit your goals.
Mr. Griffiths will guide you through the options and help you decide what’s right for you.
Contact the
Mat Griffiths Team
If you have a general question or enquiry about our services, please contact our team directly.


