Breast Revision
Breast revision surgery corrects, removes or replaces an implant that is no longer wanted, effective or desirable.
Overview
A lot of women in the world make the decision each year to have breast augmentation surgery with implants. While the majority of women are pleased with their augmentation results, some patients will decide to have the implants removed or replaced. We are, performs breast revision surgery to correct, remove or replace an existing implant that is either not functioning properly, or is no longer aesthetically desirable. In addition, women who have had breast implants that have been in place for more than a decade may consider a breast revision procedure to replace their current implants.
Reasons For Revision Surgery
There are various circumstances as to why a woman may decide to undergo breast revision surgery. The most common reasons are listed below.
Ruptured Implant
If a saline implant ruptures, the implant device will deflate due to the leakage of saline. This will result in an obvious deflating of the breasts. Silicone implants will not deflate visibly, however a break in the shell may still occur. The only true way to detect a shell break is through an MRI, which is why routine check-ups are recommended throughout the years.
Breast Rippling
Breast rippling and/or wrinkling can occur along the side of the breast, or underneath it. This occurs within saline implants resulting in an unnatural appearance under the skin. This is most common in women who are extremely thin.
Double Bubble Implants
“Double bubble” is a rare complication with women who have breast implants. This occurs when the implant drops down behind the natural breast crease, or it has risen and now over-drapes (double folds) the breast. When this occurs, an unnatural indention will result in a “double” breast appearance. This is usually caused by improper breast placement from the original surgery, or severe capsular contracture, which shifts the implant from its position.
Breast Implant Removal
Some women may decide later in life they no longer wish to have breast implants in place. Breast implant removal is a procedure that removes the implants and tightens the skin around the breasts to create a natural look.
Breast Size
Some women will be unhappy with their breast size following breast augmentation surgery. They may desire a secondary surgery to replace the implant with one of a different size, texture or shape. Some women may want to go from saline to silicone, or vice versa to achieve the results they desire.
Implant Bottoming Out
This can occur post-surgery when an implant shifts or moves from its original location. This can also occur with aging, gravity, trauma to the chest area, or with excessive scarring.
Surgical Error
Some women are not good candidates for breast augmentation surgery. Instead, they should first have a breast lift. Women who have sagging breasts and undergo breast augmentation surgery alone will not have strong results. The breast will continue to sag further due to the increase weight of the implant.
Surgical Technique
Patients who wish to have their implants replaced will undergo a procedure where an exchange of one or both implants may occur. These revision surgeries are generally straightforward. If scar tissue does exist around the implant, an additional step will be taken to remove this. Some patients may require a breast lift during the revision surgery. In addition, a tissue matrix device known as a strattice may be used if added support is needed. The goal of the revision process is to resolve or overcome issues in a way that satisfies the patient’s aesthetic goals.
Breast Revision FAQ
When Can I Exercise?
The average return to routine exercises depends on the amount of revision surgery was required. It is usually about two months.
