Local anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic injection
Length of appointments
Approx. 45 minutes
Recovery
Continue largely as normal. Learn more.
Locations
Fees
Journey Overview
A contraceptive implant fitting or replacement is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes, rarely causing complications, and requires no stitches.
The consultation and procedure happen in one appointment, as long as it's safe to do so.
#1 Pre Appointment Questionnaire
To prepare for your appointment, we ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire. This helps us ensure that there is enough time for discussion and the procedure.
Click here to request an appointment.
#2 Consultation
We will begin by discussing any questions you may have about the implant and the procedure, and we will rule out pregnancy before proceeding. For deep implants, an ultrasound scan may be conducted to confirm its location.
#3 Apply Local Anaesthetic
We will clean the area of your arm with an antiseptic wipe and administer a local anaesthetic injection to ensure you're comfortable during the procedure.
#4 Procedure
Once the area is numb, we will insert or replace the implant under the skin of your upper arm. If replacing, a small cut will be made to gently remove the old implant before fitting the new one. We will then apply a bandage to the site, which should remain clean and dry for 24-48 hours.
#5 Post-Procedure Monitoring
You’ll have a few moments to rest, and we will make sure you're feeling alright before you leave. We'll also answer any further questions you might have.
For more details on aftercare, please refer to our dedicated implant aftercare page.
Eligibility
Best For
Long-term (3 year) contraception.
Pregnancy Restrictions
No pregnancy risk; not emergency contraception.
Menstrual Restrictions
Fitting OK during period; bleeding changes.
Antibiotic Restrictions
No specific restrictions to common medications.
Contra-indications
Pregnancy.
Consult Your Clinician If...
Infection, implant change/lost, post-procedure issues.
FAQs
The implant can be fitted at any time during the menstrual cycle, as long as there is no risk of pregnancy.
If the implant is fitted during the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you will be protected immediately from pregnancy.
If inserted at any other time, you will not be protected from pregnancy straight away, and will need to use an additional method of contraception for another 7 days.
No, the implant cannot be used as emergency contraception.
The IUCD (or the copper coil) is used as emergency contraception and has the highest efficacy rate in preventing an unwanted pregnancy.
Yes, you can.
It is very likely that your bleeding patterns can change and either you may have more frequent/heavier bleeding or no bleeding at all.
Patients may also experience hormonal side effects such as headaches, breast tenderness, mood swings, acne, weight gain and nausea.
The side effects tend to settle after 3-6 months.
The implant is over 99% effective once fitted, and lasts for 3 years.
You do not need to do anything to prepare for your appointment. However, wearing a top where the sleeves are easy to roll high up the arm will be helpful and showering in the morning to avoid getting it wet in the evening.
There is no need for you to take any time off after the implant fitting/replacement.
Yes. You can bring your partner, friend or family member to your appointment.
However, if you feel that you would rather not bring someone to the appointment, rest assured that our staff are here to support you and make you comfortable in any way possible. Clarewell Clinics is a safe space.
Just keep in mind that your arm may be slightly sore. But other than that, you do not need to make any special arrangements.
You should not feel any pain during the procedure, as the area will be numbed with a local anaesthetic injection. This can not take away a pressure feeling when the implant is placed. Our specialists will walk you through what to expect and how to be prepared during the consultation.
You may ask any questions you may have then and discuss ways in which to make the procedure more comfortable.
Yes, absolutely you can. Please let us know at the time of your booking (or upon your arrival) so that we are ready to accommodate your wishes.
You should not feel any pain during the procedure, as the area will be numbed with a local anaesthetic injection. This can not take away a pressure feeling when the implant is placed. Our specialists will walk you through what to expect and how to be prepared during the consultation.
You may ask any questions you may have then and discuss ways in which to make the procedure more comfortable.
Absolutely. Please request this at the time of booking so that we may book you an extended appointment.
For more information about our STI tests, please visit this page: https://www.clarewellclinics.co.uk/sexual-health-clinic/.
Overall, you should feel completely fine after getting your implant taken out.
Your arm may feel tender or swollen around the area where the implant was for a few days and sometimes a bit of bruising may be noticeable after the procedure. Otherwise, you will be fine to go on with the rest of your day as normal.
We recommend keeping the bandage around your arm upto 48 hours. This will mean avoiding any water in the area and (possibly) physical activity.
Other complications, like infections and scarring are extremely rare.
It’s not always necessary to have a check up after an implant fitting/replacement, unless you are experiencing symptoms of infection (pain, fever, swelling), you think the implant has changed shape in your arm, or you can no longer feel it.
If you think that something is not quite right after your procedure, please contact the clinic or email us on info@clarewellclinics.co.uk.
We will be able to arrange a follow up call for you and your clinician will be able to discuss the next steps with you.
Patient Feedback
Fees
Routine Implant Removal - £175
This is where both sides of the implant can be felt and no one has tried to remove it before. Consultation + procedure can happen on the same day for those who have filled out the pre-appointment questionnaire.
For international patients with two rods, we charge £250.
Ultrasound Guided Implant Removal - £475
This is designed for those who are looking for a deep implant removal or non-palpable implant removal. The consultation + procedure can happen on the same day for those who have filled out the pre-appointment questionnaire.
Implant Fitting/Replacement - £300
The consultation + procedure can happen on the same day for those who have filled out the pre-appointment questionnaire. For those seeking an implant replacement, we need to ensure that both sides of the implant can be felt - otherwise, the ultrasound guided implant removal will be required.
Local Anaesthetic
Included in the procedure
Payment Options
Self Pay – by Cash/Card), but not American Express
Health insurance – via a self reimbursement policy
Klarna – a payment plan to split the cost over 4 payments.
Page last reviewed by Dr Praveen Jayadeva on 1 April 2022 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.