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.
FAQ
Revision breast surgery (often with breast implant exchange or removal) can address breast implant problems like capsular contracture, implant rupture, visible rippling, and more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Learn More About Corrective Breast Augmentation In South Denver
Dr. Lisa M. Hunsicker has been practicing medicine since 1995. Since 2001, Revalla Plastic Surgery has been providing patients in the Denver area with excellent, individualized cosmetic surgery results. We encourage you to call us for a personal consultation with Dr. Hunsicker. Contact us at 720.283.2500 or online to schedule a consultation. Together, you and Dr. Hunsicker and Dr. Nguyen can determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.