What Are Your Options if You Regret Getting Breast Implants?

Breast implants can offer transformative benefits, from boosting self-esteem to reconstructing breast tissue after medical procedures like mastectomies. However, the decision to undergo breast augmentation is a significant one, and not everyone finds the results to be what they had hoped for. Whether due to physical discomfort, emotional dissatisfaction, or a change in life circumstances, some individuals find themselves regretting their choice to get breast implants.

Understanding that regret is a possibility, it's crucial to know what options are available to you should you find yourself in this situation. This blog post aims to guide you through the various pathways you can take if you're questioning your decision to get breast implants. From surgical solutions to psychological support, we'll explore the avenues you can consider to make the best choice for your wellbeing.

Why people regret getting breast implants

The decision to get breast implants is often made after considerable thought, yet regret can still occur for a variety of reasons. Understanding these underlying factors can provide valuable context for the options available to you. Here are some common reasons why people may regret getting breast implants:

Physical discomfort or complications

Some individuals experience physical issues post-surgery, such as pain, capsular contracture or implant rupture. These complications can make the implants feel more like a burden than a benefit.

Emotional or psychological reasons

The emotional impact of breast implants can vary widely. Some people may feel that the implants don't align with their self-image, leading to emotional distress or even depression.

Change in life circumstances

Life is ever-changing, and so are our bodies and preferences. What seemed like a good idea a few years ago may not align with your current lifestyle or aesthetic desires. For example, you may find that the implants are less practical if you take up certain sports, or you may simply prefer a more natural look as you age.

Social or relationship factors

Sometimes, the decision to get breast implants is influenced by external factors such as societal expectations or relationship pressures. In hindsight, some patients may feel that their decision was not entirely their own, leading to regret.

Understanding the root cause of your regret can help you better navigate the options available to address your concerns. Whether it's a matter of physical discomfort or a deeper emotional issue, acknowledging the reason behind your regret is the first step towards finding a solution that's right for you.

Consult your surgeon

One of the first and most crucial steps to take if you're experiencing regret over your breast implants is to consult with the surgeon who performed the procedure. Open and honest communication with your doctor or your healthcare provider can offer valuable insights into your situation and the options available to you.

Importance of open communication

Your surgeon is best placed to understand the specifics of your case, including the type of implants used and any complications that may have arisen. Discuss your concerns candidly, as this will help your surgeon provide the most appropriate advice tailored to your needs.

What to expect during the consultation

During the consultation, you can expect a thorough examination and possibly some imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to assess the current state of your implants. Your surgeon will likely ask you a series of questions to understand the nature of your regret better. Is it due to physical discomfort? Emotional dissatisfaction? Lifestyle changes? The answers to these questions will guide and determine the next steps, which could range from surgical intervention to psychological support.

It's also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and to discuss potential solutions. Whether it's implant removal, replacement or another form of treatment, your surgeon can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Consulting your surgeon should not be seen as an admission of failure or a step back, but rather as a proactive measure to address your concerns. Remember, the ultimate goal is your wellbeing, and taking the initiative to consult a professional is a positive step towards achieving that.

Surgical options

If after consulting your surgeon you decide that a surgical solution is the best course of action, there are several options available to you. Each comes with its own set of considerations, so it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Implant removal

One of the most straightforward options is to have the implants removed, a procedure known as explantation. This operation will take out the implant and may also involve the removal of the capsule, the scar tissue that forms around the implant.

What the explantation procedure involves

The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia and may take several hours, depending on the complexity of your case. Recovery time varies by patient but generally requires a few weeks.

Possible need for a breast lift

Depending on the size of the breast implants removed and the elasticity of your skin, you may also require a breast lift after the removal to improve the appearance of your natural breasts.

Implant replacement

If you're unhappy with the size, body shape or type of your current implants, you could consider having them replaced.

Switching implant types or sizes

You might opt for a different type of implant material, such as switching from saline to silicone, or you may want to change the size to better suit your body or lifestyle.

Pros and cons

While this option allows you to maintain the augmented size and shape of your breasts, it does come with the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as infection or complications.

Revision surgery

If you're experiencing complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture or asymmetry, revision surgery can correct these issues.

This could involve removing scar tissue, replacing ruptured implants, or adjusting the position of the implant to achieve a more natural look. Like any surgical procedure, revision surgery comes with its own set of risks and requires a period of recovery.

Psychological support

While surgical options can address the physical aspects of regretting breast implants, it's equally important to consider the emotional and psychological dimensions. If your regret stems from emotional or psychological factors, consulting a mental health professional can offer valuable support and coping strategies.

A qualified psychologist or counsellor can help you explore the emotional aspects of your regret, such as body image issues, weight, self-esteem, or the impact on your relationships. This can be particularly useful if you're struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression related to your implants.

Various forms of psychological support are available, depending on your needs:

• Individual counselling: one-on-one sessions can provide a safe space to explore your feelings and concerns in depth.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): this form of therapy can help you identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier attitudes towards your body and self-image.
• Support groups: sometimes, sharing your experience with others who are going through similar issues can offer a sense of community and understanding that you might not get elsewhere.
• Online resources: there are numerous online forums and resources where you can read about others' experiences and even share your own. However, it's essential to remember that while online support can be valuable, it should not replace professional advice.

By addressing the emotional aspects of your regret, you can make a more informed decision about whether surgical intervention is the right course of action for you, or if non-surgical options may be more beneficial in your particular case. Regardless of the path you choose, psychological support can be a crucial component of your overall wellbeing.

Contact us

If you have experienced problems following breast implant surgery and think they are the result of negligence, talk to our expert cosmetic surgery negligence team today. Call 0808 120 5180, or request a call back by completing the contact form.