Breast Implant Pocket Change (Dual Plane / Subfascial / Submuscular) Sydney

Technical Explanation of the Procedure

Breast implant pocket change in Sydney is a type of revision breast implant surgery designed to move an existing implant into a new implant plane (pocket). Patients may need pocket change surgery after breast augmentation. Others require implant pocket revision after previous implant revision surgery.

Over time, the implant pocket can stretch or shift. In addition, scar tissue (capsule) can affect implant position. As a result, implants may sit too low, too far to the side, too high, or appear asymmetrical. For suitable patients, breast implant pocket change surgery can improve implant position, soft-tissue coverage, and long-term stability.

A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) performs breast implant pocket change in Sydney with personalised surgical planning. During consultation, Dr Tim assesses implant position, capsule characteristics, breast tissue thickness, and overall breast proportions. He then discusses technique options, scarring, recovery, risks, and realistic outcomes as part of informed consent. Importantly, results vary between individuals.

Why Patients Consider Breast Implant Pocket Change Surgery

Patients may consider breast implant pocket change in Sydney for:

  • implant malposition, including:

    • bottoming out

    • lateral displacement (implant sits too wide)

    • high-riding implants

    • asymmetry

  • capsular contracture (selected patients)

  • implant rippling or visible implant edges

  • thin tissue coverage, where implants appear obvious or unnatural

  • revision after implant rupture (where appropriate)

  • preference to change the implant plane for improved contour or support

What Breast Implant Pocket Change Can Improve

Breast implant pocket revision may help improve:

  • implant position and symmetry

  • implant stability and support

  • implant visibility or rippling (selected patients)

  • breast contour and cleavage balance

  • long-term implant pocket control in revision cases

However, revision surgery cannot guarantee perfect symmetry. Instead, Dr Tim aims to improve shape, balance, and implant stability using safe techniques.

Implant Plane Options (Dual Plane / Subfascial / Submuscular)

During breast implant pocket change surgery, Dr Tim may move the implant into one of the following planes.

Dual Plane Implant Pocket Change Sydney

Dual plane placement positions the implant partly under the muscle. It also allows controlled lower pole expansion. Therefore, it can improve upper pole coverage while maintaining a natural breast shape.

This option may suit patients who:

  • have thin upper breast tissue

  • have visible implant edges

  • want better implant coverage without full submuscular positioning

Subfascial Implant Pocket Change Sydney

Subfascial placement positions the implant beneath the fascia (a thin fibrous layer over the pectoralis muscle). This option may improve implant camouflage compared with subglandular placement. In addition, it may reduce the risk of certain muscle-related distortions in selected patients.

This option may suit patients who:

  • want better implant coverage without full muscle involvement

  • exercise frequently

  • have mild implant visibility concerns

Submuscular Implant Pocket Change Sydney

Submuscular placement positions the implant beneath the pectoralis major muscle. This can provide stronger implant coverage in thin patients. As a result, it may reduce rippling in selected cases.

This option may suit patients who:

  • have minimal breast tissue thickness

  • have rippling or implant visibility

  • need greater implant camouflage for long-term stability

However, submuscular implants can sometimes cause animation deformity. For this reason, Dr Tim assesses suitability carefully.

How Breast Implant Pocket Change Surgery is Performed

Breast implant pocket change surgery is technique-sensitive. Importantly, revision surgery involves existing scar tissue and altered anatomy. Therefore, surgical planning is essential.

During surgery, Dr Tim may:

  • use a planned incision (often through an existing scar where safe)

  • remove or adjust scar tissue (capsule) when indicated

  • create a new implant pocket in the selected plane

  • close or reinforce the previous pocket to reduce recurrence of malposition

  • reposition the implant, replace the implant, or both

  • use internal support techniques where appropriate

Can Pocket Change Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes. Dr Tim commonly combines implant pocket change in Sydney with other revision steps to improve stability and contour.

Depending on your anatomy and goals, options may include:

Suitability for Breast Implant Pocket Change in Sydney

You may be suitable for breast implant pocket revision if you:

  • have implant malposition or implant instability

  • have implant visibility due to thin tissue coverage

  • have capsular contracture concerns (selected patients)

  • want a change in implant plane for improved support

  • have realistic expectations regarding scars and outcomes

Dr Tim confirms suitability for breast implant pocket change in Sydney during consultation.

Recovery and Key Considerations

Recovery varies depending on revision complexity. However, many patients can expect:

  • swelling and tightness in the early phase

  • activity restrictions during early healing

  • support bras as recommended

  • follow-up visits to monitor healing and implant position

Importantly, revision surgery often settles gradually. The breasts can continue to refine for weeks to months.

Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.

Safety, training and professional standards

A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).

Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.

A/Prof. Tim Papadopoulos
Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001160037
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Dr Tim Sydney Plastic Surgeon

About Dr Tim Papadopoulos

SPECIALIST PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.

As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

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About Dr Tim Papadopoulos

SPECIALIST PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.

As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

learn more
Dr Tim Sydney Plastic Surgeon
australian society of aesthetic plastic surgeons
australian society plastic surgeons
fracs royal australasian college of surgeons

Why Choose Dr Tim?

A Reputation For Safety
Dr. Tim is a highly experienced specialist plastic surgeon known for his commitment to patient safety, advanced surgical techniques, and meticulous care. He prioritizes evidence-based procedures to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Precision
With an exceptional eye for detail and surgical expertise, Dr. Tim ensures every procedure—whether facelift, body contouring, or breast augmentation—is performed with precision, artistry, and the latest medical advancements.
Your Wellbeing & Comfort
Dr. Tim takes a patient-centered approach, guiding you from consultation to post-operative care. He provides personalised surgical plans to help you make informed decisions, ensuring your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout your cosmetic surgery journey.
Professional Integrity
As a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr. Tim is dedicated to excellence in aesthetic surgery. His contributions to medical education, training future surgeons, and speaking at global conferences reinforce his reputation as a leader in the field of cosmetic surgery.
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