While initial cosmetic breast surgeries often yield satisfying results, changes can occur over time due to various factors. When these changes lead to dissatisfaction or complications, a secondary procedure, known as breast revision surgery, may be considered. This procedure focuses on refining or correcting the outcome of previous breast work, aiming to achieve a more desirable aesthetic or resolve existing issues.
What is Breast Revision
Breast revision is a secondary surgical procedure performed to address concerns or dissatisfaction arising from a prior breast augmentation, lift, or reduction. Its purpose extends beyond mere aesthetic improvement, aiming also to resolve complications or adapt to the natural changes a person’s body undergoes over time. This specialized surgery may involve removing, replacing, or adjusting existing breast implants, or modifying breast tissue, to achieve a more favorable outcome. It is designed to enhance the shape, size, projection, and symmetry of the breasts.
Common Reasons for Seeking Revision
Individuals often seek breast revision due to dissatisfaction with the initial surgical outcomes. They may find the size, shape, position, or overall appearance of their breasts does not align with their expectations or desired aesthetic.
Natural bodily changes also frequently prompt the consideration of revision surgery. Factors such as aging can lead to a loss of skin elasticity and thinning breast tissue, affecting the initial results of breast augmentation. Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can significantly alter breast appearance, causing sagging or changes in volume that necessitate further refinement.
Sometimes, patients experience general discomfort or vague concerns that lead them to seek evaluation for breast revision. This might include feelings of tightness or an unusual sensation that, while not a specific medical complication, indicates a need for adjustment or assessment.
Specific Problems Corrected by Revision
One common complication is capsular contracture, where the body forms a hardened capsule of scar tissue around the implant. This can cause the breast to feel firm or hard, lead to pain, and distort the breast’s shape, sometimes causing the implant to appear unnaturally high or misshapen. Surgical treatment often involves removing or releasing this tightened capsule.
Implant rupture or deflation is another significant concern. Saline implants typically show immediate deflation and a noticeable change in breast size as the saltwater leaks out and is safely absorbed by the body. Silicone implant ruptures, often termed “silent ruptures,” may not cause immediate changes in size or shape because the gel tends to remain within the breast, but can lead to pain, lumps, or changes in breast contour over time. Revision is necessary to replace the compromised implant.
Implant malposition occurs when implants shift from their intended placement, appearing too high, too low, too far apart, or too close together. This can result from an incorrectly created implant pocket or changes in tissue over time, leading to an unnatural or asymmetrical appearance. Asymmetry, where breasts are uneven in size, shape, or position, is also a common issue addressed by revision.
Rippling or wrinkling refers to the visible folds or creases of the implant through the skin. This aesthetic concern can be corrected by adding volume around the implant, changing implant type, or repositioning the implant. Unfavorable scarring from previous surgeries can also be revised to improve their appearance and blend more seamlessly with the surrounding skin.
The Breast Revision Process
The journey for breast revision surgery typically begins with an initial consultation with a qualified surgeon. During this meeting, patients discuss their specific concerns, desired outcomes, and medical history, including details of previous breast surgeries. The surgeon will conduct a thorough examination of the breasts and existing implants to assess their condition and determine the most suitable course of action.
Following the consultation, the surgeon develops a personalized surgical plan, outlining the techniques and approach required to address the identified issues and achieve the patient’s goals. The procedure itself is typically performed under general anesthesia, and its duration varies depending on the complexity of the revisions needed. It may involve removing existing implants, replacing them with new ones, or performing adjustments to the breast tissue or implant pocket.
Recovery from breast revision surgery involves an initial downtime of one to two weeks, with most patients returning to work and light activities. Full recovery, including the resolution of swelling and bruising, can take several weeks to months. Patients receive detailed post-operative care instructions, which include guidance on managing discomfort, avoiding strenuous activities for a period of about three to six weeks, and maintaining proper incision care.