Gangnam Breast Augmentation | Long-Term Post-Surgery Care, When to Replace Implants? (+Rupture, Tear)

Gangnam Breast Augmentation | Long-Term Post-Surgery Care, When to Replace Implants? (+Rupture, Tear)

Hello. I'm Dr. Juwon Kim, the head director of Melon Plastic Surgery, your breast specialist.

Breast augmentation is not a surgery that ends once implants are inserted and the breasts become larger. It's a procedure that requires a period of adaptation, during which our bodies accept the implants as part of themselves and they settle stably.

‘Isn't it over once my breasts are bigger?’‘Is there anything special I need to pay attention to after surgery?’

If the process of breast stabilization after surgery doesn't go well, dissatisfaction with the surgery can arise, and there's also a possibility of side effects. Therefore, long-term care after breast surgery is essential.

Today, I'll discuss long-term care methods after breast augmentation, the timing for implant replacement, and what to do in case of implant rupture or tear. I hope this information is helpful for those who wish to maintain beautiful breasts for a long time.

Breast Augmentation | Long-Term Care for Beautiful Breasts

One of the most important aspects after breast augmentation is regular check-ups. We recommend checking the condition of your implants with an ultrasound examination once a year.

Consistent breast stretching and exercise are also good for maintaining the flexibility of the surgical site tissue. Sudden weight changes can lead to bodily changes, and also alter breast shape.

To prevent capsular contracture, quitting smoking and alcohol is necessary. In the early stages after surgery, it's best to wear the compression garment recommended by your medical team and avoid strenuous movements as much as possible.

Preventing infection through prescribed medication and hygiene management, and detecting any potential changes early during regular check-ups, are also crucial.

If you notice any unusual changes, such as pain, hardness, or changes in sensation, it's best to contact the hospital where you had the surgery immediately and schedule a visit.

Breast Augmentation | Questions About Implant Replacement

One of the most frequently asked questions during consultations is about implants.

‘Is there a set replacement cycle?’ ‘Do implants need to be replaced every 10 years?’

If you have breast surgery, do you really need to replace your implants every 10 years? The answer is ‘no’. Recent implants do not have a specified replacement period. However, it is suggested to check for implant rupture or damage.

Replacement is only recommended if problems occur, such as capsular contracture severe enough to require replacement, or implant rupture. Ultimately, if regular check-ups show no abnormalities, it's fine to use them for a long time.

Therefore, after breast surgery, it's important to check for any implant abnormalities through regular check-ups.

Breast Augmentation | What if an Implant Ruptures or Tears?

Implant rupture and tear are concerns that people considering breast augmentation often think about. Recently manufactured implants are products with proven safety and durability, making the probability of rupture or tear very low.

There are no sharp structures within our bodies that could rupture an implant, so it's difficult for the body's own force to cause an implant to rupture. However, they can be damaged by strong external impact. Caution is needed against external impacts such as high-intensity pressure or sudden, strong shocks.

Even if an implant ruptures, in most cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms initially. Pain is also minimal, so it's more common to suspect it only after some time has passed. Typical symptoms of a ruptured implant include the implant appearing spread out or the breast appearing asymmetrical.

A ruptured implant does not necessarily have an adverse effect on the body. This is because the contents (gel) inside the implant often remain within the surrounding capsule.

While implant rupture is not considered an emergency, it will eventually require revision surgery, so it's best to replace it as soon as possible.

Melon Plastic Surgery | Dr. Juwon Kim's Direct Management of Your ‘Breast Journey’

Post-operative follow-up care is as important as the surgery itself, which is why at Melon Plastic Surgery, I, as your primary surgeon, personally oversee and examine all progress.

When patients' concerns and worries are not overlooked, recovery can proceed with peace of mind, and satisfaction with the results also increases.

The most beautiful breast results are achieved when long-term care is provided through careful communication between the hospital and the patient. I will always accompany you on your ‘breast journey’ from pre-surgery to post-surgery. 😊

Thank you.