Breast
Breast Implant Revision
Breast Implant Revision
Although every surgeon strives to deliver the best possible result the first time around, many women who have had prior breast augmentations wind up being unhappy with their results and require a breast implant revision. The reasons are varied. Some women are simply not happy with their size. Others may develop asymmetries in their breasts following surgery from capsular contracture, implant rupture, or malpositioned implants. Some simply want to exchange the type of implant used. Whatever the reason, Dr. David Sieber has extensive experience in breast implant revision surgery and prides himself on delivering superior results for his patients.
Almost any patient who is not completely satisfied with her breast implant results is a candidate for a breast implant revision.
Most common reasons for breast implant revision surgery:
- Change in breast implant size, type, or profile
- Implants have shifted in placement, as in symmastia or lateral displacement
- One or both implants have “bottomed out”
- Capsular contracture, or hardened scar tissue, has developed around the implant in one or both breasts
- An implant has developed a leak or rupture
- Weight fluctuations or pregnancy have caused breasts to change in shape or size
- Patient is interested in a complete breast implant removal
Quick Facts
- Length: 1-3 hours
- Anesthesia: General
- Inpt/Outpt: Outpatient
- Side effects: Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, pain
- Recovery: 3-7 days
To find out more about a breast implant revision with Dr. David Sieber at Sieber Plastic Surgery, call us today at: 415-915-9000 or schedule a consultation here.
Breast Implant Revision Technique
Depending on the technique used in your initial breast surgery, Dr. Sieber may very well be able to use the same incision location for your breast implant revision. This will help to minimize any additional scarring. Depending on the complexity of the revision, however, he may need to make an additional incision, typically in the breast fold if you don’t have one there already. All of this will be discussed in detail during your initial consultation. Each breast implant revision surgery is customized specifically for you and your needs. Dr. Sieber’s goal is to always provide the ideal option for delivering the best possible aesthetic result. Breast revision surgery is a same-day procedure performed under general anesthesia.
Preparing for Breast Implant Revision Surgery
As with any major surgery, all medications and supplements which cause an increased risk of bleeding should be stopped 2 weeks prior to surgery. Please see our list of medications and supplements to avoid. As always, make sure to check with your doctor before stopping any medications.
Recovery from Breast Implant Revision Surgery
Since every individual heals at her own rate, your recovery experience is really going to depend on how your body responds to surgery, and whether or not you combine your breast implant revision with any other additional procedures. In most cases, the recovery process from a breast implant revision is substantially faster than the recovery from your initial surgery. Dr. Sieber may provide you with a special post-surgical garment to wear during the first few days to minimize swelling. After surgery, you will need to refrain from any rigorous activity for the first 2 weeks, and you shouldn’t lift anything heavier than 10 lbs. You may begin to perform light exercise 2 weeks post op, but should avoid any chest exercises such as push-ups. You may begin more intense exercise at 4 weeks, and will be released to full activities at 6 weeks following surgery. If you work a desk job with no heavy lifting, you may feel up to returning to work after only a few days of recovery.
FAQs
Q: How will I know that this won’t happen again?
A: The key to ensuring a successful breast implant revision is figuring out what went wrong the first time and correcting the underlying issue. For example, a common reason for implant malposition is that your implants are too big. Your skin and soft tissue can’t support the weight and the implants move. For these patients, Dr. Sieber may use a type of specialized mesh to give extra support to your breast tissue which will help to keep the implant in its proper place.
Q: My implant is currently above the muscle. Should it be moved under the muscle?
A: There are many benefits to having your breast implants placed underneath your muscle. Some of these include a more natural look to the breast as well as less implant rippling and visibility.
Q: Do I need to have another scar or can the same incision be used to exchange the implants?
A: Depending on the technique used during your initial breast augmentation, there’s a good chance Dr. Sieber will be able to use the same incision for your breast implant revision. However, if there’s more in depth work needed to restore your breast aesthetics then Dr. Sieber may need to make a new incision in your breast fold. All of this will be discussed in detail during your initial consultation.
*Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. Editorial content, before and after images, and patient testimonials do not constitute a guarantee of specific results.
