BREAST IMPLANT REVISION AT POWER PLASTIC SURGERY
Are you considering breast implant revision? Perhaps you have a desire to change the size of your implants or have concerns about your results from previous augmentation. No matter the reason, Dr. Power can help you to achieve the look that is right for you! Our team uses leading techniques and equipment to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
What is Breast Implant Revsion?
Breast implant revision is performed to modify the outcome of previous augmentation surgery. It may involve implant exchange – replacing your original implants with new ones of a different size and/or type – or to address complications of previous surgery. This may involve releasing or removing scar tissue around the implants, repositioning, or adjusting the implant pockets. Breast implant revision may be performed in combination with a breast lift. In other cases, patients may wish to undergo removal of breast implants.
There are many reasons why a patient may wish to undergo breast implant revision. These may include:
- Capsular Contracture: This develops when the scar tissue surrounding an implant – which is referred to as the capsule – tightens over time. In mild cases, there are no symptoms or changes in appearance. As the scar tissue becomes tighter, this may change the appearance of your implant and become painful in advanced cases. Your implant may feel quite firm and appear high on your chest wall.
- Asymmetry: Implants may heal or settle differently between sides. This may also relate to surgical technique if the pockets were created with different dimensions during your original surgery.
- Rupture or Leakage: When the silicone shell of an implant tears or breaks apart, it is called a rupture. Imaging is generally required to detect rupture of a silicone implant, particularly of the “gummy bear” or cohesive gel implants. It may be noted on mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI. A saline implant deflates when ruptured, which is most commonly noticeable without imaging given change in breast appearance.
- Wrinkling/Rippling: This is seen more often in thin patients, particularly with saline as opposed to silicone implants. Large implants also carry higher risk of wrinkling and rippling in the long-term since they may cause thinning of the overlying skin and breast tissue. Implants placed above the muscle in the subglandular pocket are also at greater risk for rippling.
- Shifting of Implant: Over time implants may shift from their original position. They may migrate more towards the sides extending under the arms or lower on the chest wall related to gravity. It is important to wear a supportive bra in the long-term to lower risk of implant shifting and malposition.
Revision surgery will be based on your specific concerns and appearance. Options may include capsulotomy (scar tissue release), capsulectomy (scar tissue removal), capsulorrhaphy (tightening or resuspending the capsule to alter implant position), or implant exchange to a different size, type, or placement.
How is Breast Implant Revision Performed?
Breast implant revision is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes about 2-4 hours depending on the extent of surgery. When performing this procedure, Dr. Power most commonly recommends an inframammary approach, using incisions hidden within the breast folds. It is generally not recommended to exchange implants through an axillary (underarm) incision given limited exposure. If your primary breast augmentation was performed using periareolar incisions – along the lower border of the areola – it is not recommended to use the same scars given risk of developing nipple retraction. This may lead to a tethered appearance of the nipple due to increased scar tissue. During breast implant revision, implants will then be placed above or below the muscle depending on your original implant placement and what is determined to be the best choice for you. The existing implant pockets will be modified to ensure implants can move naturally. Patients can choose between saline or silicone gel implants, depending on your personal preference and clinical examination. In cases where a breast lift is also being performed, Dr. Power will remove loose breast skin then reposition and lift your breasts to a more youthful position. Incisions will be closed with dissolvable sutures.
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Revision?
You may be a candidate for breast revision surgery if you wish to improve upon results from previous breast augmentation. Your implants may have dropped over time due to changes during pregnancies, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuation. Your preferences may have changed relating to implant size or position. Your concerns may also relate to capsular contracture, which results in varying degrees of scar tissue surrounding the implant. This may range from a somewhat tight implant to one that is high on your chest wall and painful. If you are considering breast implant revision, it is generally the safest recommendation to defer surgery until you have completed pregnancies and breastfeeding and have achieved a stable and healthy BMI. Smoking cessation is also important to lower risk of healing complications.
Breast Implant Revision Recovery
Recovery from breast implant revision surgery is similar to what you experienced following your primary breast augmentation. Implant revision surgery is performed as an out-patient procedure. A surgical bra is recommended to be worn full-time except when showering over the first 6 weeks. Mild to moderate discomfort can be alleviated by prescribed pain medication and by performing cold compresses over the first 48 hours. Patients are generally able to return to work within one week, depending on the nature of your work. It is necessary to refrain from strenuous activity or heavy lifting for one month post-operatively. Dr. Power will give you specific instructions on when you can safely return to rigorous exercise, including lifting/straining, physical labor, sex, and other daily activities.
Breast Implant Revision FAQs
Can breast implants be reduced in size?
Can breast implants be removed and not replaced?
Can breast implants change shape over time?
Can breast implants last 30 years?
Can you feel a ruptured breast implant?
Does insurance cover breast revision?
How do you fix capsular contracture?
How soon after breast augmentation can I get a revision?
Is it dangerous to have breast implants removed?
Is there an alternative to breast implants?
What are the early signs of capsular contracture?
Can breast implants last a lifetime?
Can capsular contracture get worse?
Can capsular contracture go away by itself?
Can I have my breast implants removed?
How long do breast lifts last?
How long does it take to recover from breast revision surgery?
How much is a breast implant revision?
How often should breast implants be replaced?
What is breast revision surgery?
What is the most common breast implant size?
How do you know if you have capsular contracture?
"Wonderfully communicative doctor, very helpful and empathetic. Would never hesitate to return."
MORE TESTIMONIALSSchedule a Breast Implant Revision Consultation
If you are interested in learning more about breast implant revision, contact us today! As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Power has performed many breast implant revisions and has advanced training to help you achieve your goals while prioritizing your safety. We will be happy to schedule your consultation to give personalized recommendations. We hope to improve your satisfaction with your breast implants and boost your self-confidence.
CONTACT US GET PRICING
"My patients are real women.
Mothers and next-door neighbors, not models."