Is There a Lot of Swelling After a Breast Implant Exchange?

It all depends on how much surgery is done to complete the exchange. If the implants are simply removed and new implants placed into the same capsular pocket, there is little to no post operative swelling. If a portion or all of the capsule is removed or if a new pocket is created, there may be notable swelling that could persist for several months. 

In general, there is less swelling after implant switching.  This, however, is sometimes the problem.  Since all implants have a capsule around them and since this capsule is like the inside of a baggie, any fluid (blood or transudate) will sit in this baggie, and not necessarily get absorbed.  Therefore, I always put a drain in, bring it out through the axilla (armpit) and leave it in for a couple days.  

If there is a capsular contracture or the pocket has to be enlarged for one reason or another, then you can expect a greater degree of swelling.   

Thank you for the question.

Generally speaking, there is not a lot of swelling after removal/replacement of breast implants.  Most patients tolerate this procedure very well with less discomfort/recovery time than  was present  after the initial breast augmentation procedure. However, if additional work (capsular work)  is performed additional swelling can be expected.

 I hope this helps.