Breast implant revision is a type of cosmetic surgery that replaces existing breast implants. If you have breast implants, you may become dissatisfied with them over time. In some cases, breast implant revision surgery can help you achieve the appearance you want or eliminate pain caused due to issues with your implants.
The following frequently asked questions and answers about breast implant revision will help you learn more about this surgery and whether it may be right for you:
When should you consider breast implant revision?
The following are some common reasons for breast implant revision:
- Capsular contracture – This problem occurs when the “capsule” of scar tissue formed around a breast implant becomes hard and contracts around the implant. It can affect the appearance and shape of the breast and cause pain and stiffness.
- Implant rupture – If a breast implant develops a tear, hole, or leak, corrective surgery to remove and/or replace the implant is necessary. Implant rupture can happen due to an accident or simply due to an aging implant.
- Implant migration – Implants can sometimes move from their correct positions due to a number of factors, such as improper implant placement or size, capsular contracture, or settling over time.
- New implant technology – Cosmetic surgery techniques and materials are always advancing. Some women opt to replace old saline implants with newer silicone gel implants.
Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
If you are experiencing physical discomfort related to your breast implants or you are concerned about the way your breast implants look, you might be a good candidate for breast implant revision. You may also have concerns about the age of your breast implants or the materials used. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important to talk to a trusted medical professional when considering breast implant revision surgery. Your cosmetic surgeon has the expertise to advise you on the lifespan of your breast implants and evaluate you for symptoms of any potential complications, such as capsular contracture.
To undergo breast implant revision, you should be physically healthy and at a stable weight. You should not smoke, and if you do, you should be willing to stop smoking before the surgery and during recovery. Finally, talk to your surgeon about what you hope to achieve with your breast implant revision to ensure that your goals are realistic and you know what to expect.
How is the surgery performed?
Breast revision surgery is usually an outpatient procedure that’s performed while you’re under general anesthesia. It usually takes a surgeon about one to three hours to complete, and the process your surgeon uses depends on the reason for the surgery. In some cases, patients choose to also have a breast lift during their breast revision surgery.
What is recovery like?
Recovery time is usually one to two weeks for breast implant revision surgery. You may have gauze dressing or bandages applied to your incisions and you may also use a support bra. You may also have a small, thin tube placed under your skin to temporarily drain any excess fluid. Your surgeon will let you know when you can return to work and resume your regular activity level and will give you instructions related to your recovery and follow-up visits.
Final Thoughts
Just as there are many reasons why patients decide to get breast implants, there are also many reasons you might consider breast implant revision surgery. It is important to find a surgeon who has experience with this type of procedure and can advise you on the best course of treatment for your health and aesthetic goals. It is also important to go into the surgery with realistic expectations and an understanding of what your recovery period will entail.