Breast Implant Revision Surgery: When and Why You Might Need It

Breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves the placement of breast implants to enhance the size, shape, and overall appearance of the breasts. While breast implants are designed to last for many years, some women may need to undergo breast implant revision surgery at some point in their lives. In this blog, we will discuss why and when you might need breast implant revision surgery and what you can expect from the procedure.

Reasons for Breast Implant Revision Surgery

There are several reasons why a woman might need breast implant revision surgery, including:

1. Implant Rupture or Deflation: Breast implants can rupture or deflate due to age, trauma, or a defect in the implant. If this occurs, surgery will be required to remove and replace the implant.
2. Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is a common complication that occurs when scar tissue forms around the breast implant, causing it to become hard or misshapen. Revision surgery may be necessary to remove the scar tissue and replace the implant.
3. Implant Malposition: Breast implants can shift or move over time, leading to an unnatural appearance or discomfort. Revision surgery can correct the position of the implant and improve the overall appearance of the breasts.
4. Size or Shape Dissatisfaction: Some women may feel that their breast implants are too large, too small, or have an unnatural appearance. Revision surgery can be performed to adjust the size or shape of the implants and create a more natural-looking result.
5. Implant Aging: Breast implants are not designed to last forever, and may eventually need to be replaced due to age or wear and tear.

When to Consider Breast Implant Revision Surgery

If you experience any issues or complications with your breast implants, you should contact your plastic surgeon to schedule a consultation. During this consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your breasts and determine if revision surgery is necessary.

In general, breast implant revision surgery should be considered if you experience any of the following issues:

1. Rupture or Deflation: If you notice that one or both of your breast implants have ruptured or deflated, you should schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon immediately. Ruptured or deflated implants can cause pain, asymmetry, and changes to the appearance of your breasts.
2. Capsular Contracture: If you experience hardening or distortion of the breast implant, or if you notice a change in the shape or position of the implant, you may have capsular contracture. Revision surgery can help to remove the scar tissue and improve the appearance of your breasts.
3. Implant Malposition: If your breast implants have shifted or moved, or if you experience discomfort or pain due to implant malposition, revision surgery can be performed to correct the issue.
4. Dissatisfaction with Size or Shape: If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of your breast implants, revision surgery can be performed to adjust the size or shape of the implants and create a more natural-looking result.

What to Expect During Breast Implant Revision Surgery

Breast implant revision surgery is a complex procedure that should only be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. The specific details of the procedure will depend on the reason for the revision surgery and the individual patient’s needs.

During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the existing breast implant and may remove any scar tissue or other tissue that has formed around the implant. They will then replace the implant with a new one, and may adjust the size or shape of the implant to achieve the desired result.

In some cases, the surgeon may also perform additional procedures, such as a breast lift, to improve the overall appearance of the breasts.

Recovery from breast implant revision surgery can take several weeks, as the body needs time to heal and adjust to the changes made during the procedure. The length and severity of the recovery period will depend on the specifics of the revision surgery and the individual patient’s health and healing abilities.

Immediately following the surgery, patients may experience discomfort, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the chest area. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort, and patients may need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and promote healing.

Patients should avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for several weeks following the surgery, as this can cause further discomfort and delay the healing process.

Overall, recovery from breast implant revision surgery can be a lengthy process, but it is an important step in achieving the desired result and improving the appearance and comfort of your breasts. By following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and taking care of your body, you can help ensure a successful recovery and long-lasting results.