Your breast implants have served you well for many years, but now your view of your breasts have changed. This could be due to the normal aging process or your aesthetic preferences may now be different.
Many women face this situation each year. Some notice their implants feeling different. Others see minor asymmetries in the mirror. Many simply want a different look or improvement in their current breast appearance.
Breast revision surgery is commonly considered by many women and involves a different surgical approach than the initial breast surgery.
A successful revision surgery is about working with your body as it is today, leveraging modern implant technology, and choosing the techniques that will deliver results to meet your goals.
Dr. Adrian Lo is an award-winning plastic surgeon with specialized techniques and personalized approach that is tailored to every patient’s unique needs. Visit our Philadelphia plastic surgery clinic for a consultation.
Common Reasons for Breast Revision
Patients seek breast revision surgery for personal and medical reasons.
The reasons range from physical issues to aesthetic improvements, each reflecting a unique individual experience. It is important to understand these underlying factors to make an informed decision about proceeding with surgical intervention.
Implant-Related Issues
Implant complications can arise even years after the initial breast augmentation procedure. These may include implant rupture, shifting, or noticeable changes in feel and appearance over the years.
Aesthetic Concerns
Aesthetic expectations influence patients in deciding on breast revision procedures. Patients turn to breast revision surgery to address results that no longer match their vision or body image.
Weight fluctuations, pregnancies, aging, and changes in personal style can impact one’s perception of their breast appearance. Some individuals seek refinement in shape, symmetry, or overall proportion, viewing revision as an opportunity to achieve their ideal aesthetic outcome.
Related: Will Plastic Surgery Last Forever?
Medical Complications
For some patients, medical conditions can lead to the need for breast revision surgery.
Certain medical conditions can necessitate breast revision surgery. Potential health-related factors include capsular contracture, chronic pain, breast tissue changes, and implant-related systemic symptoms. Some patients experience physiological reactions that require careful medical intervention and potential implant removal or replacement.
Types of Breast Revision Procedures
Breast revision surgery encompasses a wide range of specialized techniques tailored to individual patient needs. These procedures are carefully designed to address specific concerns while prioritizing patient safety and achieving beautiful, natural-looking results.
Implant Removal or Replacement
The removal or replacement of breast implants requires advanced surgical techniques.
Breast implant removal can be an important medical intervention for patients experiencing complications or desiring a change in their breast appearance. However, many patients have NO symptoms and desire to be back to their natural breasts and may simply wish to have the implants removed. The procedure requires evaluation of existing breast tissue and potential aesthetic outcomes. With the implants removed, it is important to understand that the breasts will not be like the way they were before implants and an experienced plastic surgeon can discuss with you the breast look after breast implant removal.
During breast implant replacement surgery, plastic surgeons work closely with patients to evaluate the existing breast tissue to align with their goals. Patients are offered implant replacement options to choose from, each tailored to their aesthetic goals and anatomy.
Whether due to aging implants, a desire for a new size or type, or medical concerns, implant replacement offers a chance to achieve renewed confidence in your breast appearance.
Related: Is it Time for a Breast Implant Removal?
Capsular Contracture Correction
Capsular contracture is a challenging condition where the scar tissue around a breast implant becomes unusually thick and tight, often causing distortion, changes in appearance and occasionally pain.
Capsular contracture revision is a specialized procedure designed to address the scar tissue formation around breast implants. The correction techniques involve carefully removing the hardened scar tissue and replacing the breast implant to restore the natural breast appearance and improve the patient’s overall comfort.
Size and Position Adjustments
Breast Implant positioning and implant size significantly influence overall breast appearance.
When issues such as implant displacement, asymmetry, or suboptimal implant position are present, breast implant revision procedures offer a solution. Plastic surgeons carefully reposition implants and adjust pocket dimensions to create a more balanced and natural-looking result. Different sized breast implants may be used to balance any existing differences in the size of the right and left breasts.
Candidacy Requirements
Breast revision surgery demands more rigorous screening than initial augmentation. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate three critical areas: physical health markers, breast tissue quality, and psychological readiness.
Physical requirements include:
- Stable weight for at least 6 months
- No smoking or vaping with nicotine, marijuana for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery
- Well-controlled blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- No autoimmune conditions that could impair healing
- Complete resolution of any breast infections or skin conditions
Your breast tissue must be:
- Free from active inflammation or infection
- Sufficiently elastic to accommodate new implants
- Healed from previous surgeries (typically 6-12 months minimum)
- Strong enough to support the planned implant weight
- Clear of suspicious masses or abnormal mammogram findings
Psychological readiness. Your plastic surgeon will assess:
- Realistic expectations about outcomes
- Clear, consistent goals for the revision
- Emotional stability and support system
- Commitment to follow post-operative instructions
- Your understanding of potential complications
The time since your original surgery is also considered. Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 months to one year after initial breast augmentation before considering revision, unless medical complications require immediate attention.
Related: How Long Do Gummy Bear Implants Last?
Pre-Surgery Preparation Steps
Successful breast revision surgery relies on thorough preparation. Patients must engage in careful planning that addresses the medical, physical, and psychological aspects of the procedure.
Medical Evaluation Requirements
Medical screenings are considered before surgical intervention. These assessments are designed to ensure patient safety and maximize the potential for successful surgical results.
These evaluations may include:
- comprehensive health assessments
- imaging studies
- blood work
- detailed discussions about the patient’s medical history.
Lifestyle Changes and Preparations
Preparing for breast revision surgery requires strategic and dedicated lifestyle modifications.
Patients must adjust dietary habits, suspend certain medications, and modify exercise routines. Smoking cessation and alcohol reduction are also typically recommended to support optimal healing and minimize potential complications.
Recovery Planning
The results of your breast revision surgery are influenced by your recovery phase.
Patients should anticipate a structured healing process involving rest, limited physical activity, and regular follow-up appointments.
Typical recovery timelines range from several weeks to a few months, influenced by individual healing rates and the complexity of surgical techniques used.
Cost and Insurance Considerations
Breast revision surgery requires financial planning. The revision surgery cost varies, with medically necessary procedures potentially qualifying for manufacturer’s warranty or partial insurance coverage, while aesthetic revisions are typically not covered.
Patients should evaluate all financial options, including payment plans and medical financing, to ensure they are fully prepared for the associated expenses.
Explore Your Options with Dr. Adrian Lo
Experience exceptional care and expertise in breast revision surgery with Dr. Adrian Lo. With his personalized approach and dedication to patient education, you will have the support you need every step of the way.
Don’t wait to take the next step toward your transformation! Schedule your consultation today. You may also visit our accessible offices in New Jersey and Philadelphia to learn how Dr. Lo can help you achieve the results you desire.