Revision breast augmentation includes procedures that address cosmetic or medical concerns related to a previous surgery. It often involves the exchange of breast implants for a different size or type. In some cases, a complication may be addressed or managed as well. Patients can become dissatisfied with their breast augmentation results for a variety of reasons. Breast implant manufacturers state that implants are not lifetime devices, and patients should plan for replacement at some point. However, there is no defined expiration date for a breast implant.
Reasons For Corrective Breast Surgery
The following are some possible reasons to undergo corrective breast augmentation:
- Dissatisfaction with implant size, shape, type, or placement
- General aesthetic concerns
- Capsular contracture (hardened scar tissue)
- Breast implant rupture
- Double bubble (implant migration into the breast fold)
- Symmastia (implant migration toward breastbone)
- Poor healing and scarring
These issues vary in frequency, and some are quite rare. Because so many women undergo breast augmentation in the United States, it is common for plastic surgeons to handle breast implant complications and aesthetic concerns on a regular basis. If you are dissatisfied with the results of a previous breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss the possibility of surgical revision.
FAQs
What Problems Can Breast Implant Revision Address?
Revision breast surgery (often with breast implant exchange or removal) can address breast implant problems like capsular contracture, implant rupture, visible rippling, and more.
How Is Breast Implant Exchange Or Removal Performed?
Breast implant exchange or removal is similar to the first breast augmentation. The doctor will make an incision (usually in the same location) to approach, remove, replace, or reposition your implants. In cases where the previous implants have been in for several years, sometimes the surgery can be slightly more involved. Dr. Hunsicker would be able to consult with you to give you an indication of the specific surgical plan based on your individual circumstances.
How Long Is Recovery After Breast Implant Removal?
Your recovery will be similar to (and perhaps shorter than) your original breast augmentation recovery. You will rest and wear a special bra. You will care for your incisions until they heal. You will need to avoid exercise and lifting heavy objects for several weeks.
Does The Same Surgeon Need To Perform The Revision?
You don’t need to see the same surgeon for breast implant removal. Sometimes it’s not as convenient for patients to return to their original surgeon–possibly the physician has retired, or sometimes the patient has moved. At Revalla, we always encourage patients to look for a surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery and also someone whom you can trust to listen to your goals and expectations.
What Is Capsular Contracture?
Capsular contracture is scarring that causes the tissue to tighten around the implant. It is caused by your immune system reacting to a foreign object. It can cause distortion and hardening of your breast implants.
How Are Breast Implant Complications Treated?
There are many different techniques that treat complications arising from breast augmentation. The doctor may use a cellular dermal replacement material to support the implants. This material is useful during treatment of capsular contracture, or when an implant has bottomed out.
Schedule Your Breast Implant Revision Consultation
While we hope this information is helpful, it can not substitute for a personalized consultation. We invite you to contact us. Or call us 720.283.2500. Together, you can determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation, as well as learn about specific risks and complications that may occur. Our office is conveniently located in Littleton, only 25 minute away from Denver, CO and 50 minutes away from Denver International Airport.
