Breast Implants Revision

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Overview

Breast implant revision surgery is a procedure to remove or replace old breast implants with new ones due to complications like implant rupture or displacement or to change the size or shape of the implants, or just to adjust the position of the existing implants and improve breast shape. Generally, as breast implants are long-lasting, (20 years and even more) you won’t need to undergo revisions frequently, maybe one or two times in your lifetime, unless you change your aesthetic goals or complications arise. A breast implant revision usually doesn’t leave new scars as the incisions are made along the ones made in the primary surgery.

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before & after photo of breast-implants-revision

Dr. Baris Yigit

Turkey, Mugla

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Dr. Alper Tuncel

Turkey, Istanbul

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Dr. Ercan Karacaoglu

Turkey, Istanbul

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Dr. Gokhan Temiz

Turkey, Istanbul

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Dr. Gokhan Temiz

Turkey, Istanbul

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Dr. Gokhan Temiz

Turkey, Istanbul

Dr. Mehmet Surmeli

Turkey, Istanbul

Dr. Mehmet Surmeli

Turkey, Istanbul

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Dr. Ercan Karacaoglu

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Istanbul, Turkey

19 years of experience

Languages: Turkish, English

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Dr. Bulent Cihantimur

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Istanbul, Turkey

25 years of experience

Languages: English, Turkish

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Dr. Tommaso Savoia

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Milan, Italy

19 years of experience

Languages: Italian, Spanish, Castilian , ...

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Dr. Zuzana Cerna

Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeon

Prague, Czech Republic

23 years of experience

Languages: Czech, English , ...

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Dr. Baris Cin

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Istanbul, Turkey

14 years of experience

Languages: Turkish, English , ...

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Dr. Gokhan Temiz

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Istanbul, Turkey

21 years of experience

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Everything About Breast Implants Revision

By Medical Content Team | Medically Reviewed by Dr. Thierry Cahuzac

Published on 15 Apr 2023 | Last updated on 28 Nov 2022

Fact-checked

What is breast implant revision surgery?

Breast implant revision surgery is a surgical procedure performed to replace or remove existing breast implants. This procedure may be done for various reasons such as correcting complications from a previous breast augmentation surgery, changing the size or type of implants, addressing changes in the breast tissue over time, or improving the aesthetic appearance of the breasts. The surgery may involve removing and replacing the implants, adjusting the size or position of the implants, correcting implant malposition, addressing capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant), or resolving implant rupture or leakage. Revision surgery can be more complex than primary breast augmentation due to factors like scar tissue, implant malposition, or changes in breast anatomy.

Why you might need a revision breast implant surgery?

There are several reasons why someone might need revision breast implant surgery:

Complications: Complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, implant malposition, asymmetry, implant rippling, or implant displacement may require revision surgery to correct the issue.
Aesthetic concerns: Changes in personal preferences, dissatisfaction with the size or shape of the implants, or changes in the breast appearance over time may lead to a desire for revision surgery to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes.
Implant wear and tear: Breast implants are not lifetime devices and may need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear, such as implant rupture or leakage, silicone gel migration, or changes in implant position.
Changes in body: Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging can impact the appearance of the breasts and may necessitate revision surgery to restore or enhance the results of a previous breast augmentation.
Previous surgical outcome: If the results of a previous breast augmentation surgery are unsatisfactory or if complications arise post-surgery, revision surgery may be necessary to address these issues and improve the overall outcome.

It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate the reasons for considering revision breast implant surgery and to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and goals.

Preparation for revision breast implant surgery

Preparing for revision breast implant surgery involves several steps to ensure a successful outcome:

Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations for the revision surgery. Be open and honest about your medical history, previous surgeries, and current implants.
Medical evaluation: Undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess your overall health and suitability for surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination.
Implant selection: Work with your surgeon to select the appropriate size, shape, and type of implants for the revision surgery based on your aesthetic goals and anatomical considerations.
Pre-operative instructions: Follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications like blood thinners, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Recovery planning: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery, as well as to assist you during the initial stages of recovery. Plan for time off work and activities to allow for proper healing.
Post-operative care: Understand and follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions, including wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
Emotional support: Prepare yourself emotionally for the revision surgery and discuss any concerns or anxieties with your surgeon or a mental health professional if needed.

By following these preparation steps and working closely with your plastic surgeon, you can help ensure a smooth and successful revision breast implant surgery experience.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure for revision breast implant surgery may vary depending on the specific reasons for the revision and the desired outcomes. However, the general steps involved in the surgery typically include:

Anesthesia: Breast implant revision surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during the procedure.
Incision: The surgeon will make an incision around the existing breast implant to access the implant and the surrounding breast tissue. The location and size of the incision may vary based on the surgical plan and the type of revision needed.
Implant removal or replacement: The surgeon will carefully remove the existing breast implant, addressing any issues such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or malposition. If replacing the implant, the new implant will be inserted and positioned appropriately.
Adjustments: The surgeon may make adjustments to the breast pocket, such as reshaping the pocket, addressing asymmetry, or repositioning the implant to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
Closure: Once the new implant is in place and any adjustments are made, the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and aid in healing.
Recovery: After the surgery, the patient will be monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home. It is essential to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon to promote proper healing and optimal results.
Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process, remove any drains or sutures, and assess the final results of the revision surgery.

It is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon to perform revision breast implant surgery to ensure a safe procedure and achieve the desired aesthetic outcomes.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery and aftercare following revision breast implant surgery are essential for a successful outcome. Here are some general guidelines for recovery and aftercare:

Follow post-operative instructions: It is crucial to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, wearing a surgical bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
Manage discomfort: You may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and discomfort after surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage these symptoms.
Monitor incision sites: Keep the incision sites clean and dry to prevent infection. Follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care, including changing dressings and keeping the incisions covered as directed.
Wear compression garments: Your surgeon may recommend wearing a compression garment or surgical bra to provide support and reduce swelling during the healing process.
Limit physical activity: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and overhead arm movements for the recommended period to prevent complications and promote proper healing.
Healthy diet and hydration: Eat a nutritious diet, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and smoking, which can adversely affect the healing process.
Attend follow-up appointments: It is essential to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress, remove any drains or sutures, and assess the results of the surgery.
Emotional well-being: It is normal to experience a range of emotions during the recovery period. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.
Scar care: Follow your surgeon's recommendations for scar care, which may include massaging the incision sites with scar cream or silicone gel to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.

By following these guidelines and staying in close communication with your surgeon throughout the recovery process, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from revision breast implant surgery.

Potential risks and complications

Revision breast implant surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. Some of the risks associated with revision breast implant surgery include:

Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection at the incision site or around the implant, which may require antibiotics or additional treatment.
Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur, leading to complications that may require further intervention.
Anesthesia risks: General anesthesia carries risks such as allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or adverse reactions to anesthetic medications.
Changes in sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation or breast sensitivity may occur after surgery.
Capsular contracture: The formation of excessive scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture) can lead to breast firmness, pain, and distortion of breast shape.
Implant rupture or leakage: Implants may rupture or leak, necessitating removal and replacement of the implant.
Implant malposition: Implants may shift or become malpositioned, leading to asymmetry or an unnatural appearance of the breasts.
Scarring: Scarring at the incision sites is inevitable, and the extent of scarring can vary depending on individual healing factors and surgical techniques.
Unsatisfactory results: Despite the surgeon's best efforts, there is a possibility that the results of the revision surgery may not meet the patient's expectations.

It is essential to discuss these potential risks and complications with your plastic surgeon during the consultation process and follow their pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the likelihood of complications and promote a successful outcome.

Cost of breast implant revision surgery

The cost of breast implant revision surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, geographic location, facility fees, anesthesia fees, the complexity of the revision needed, the type of implants used, and any additional procedures performed during the surgery.

On average, the cost of breast implant revision surgery in the United States can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. This cost typically includes the surgeon's fee, facility fees, anesthesia fees, pre-operative and post-operative care, follow-up appointments, and the cost of implants if they need to be replaced.

It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific needs, goals, and the associated costs of revision breast implant surgery. Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of revision surgery if it is deemed medically necessary to correct complications or address specific issues related to the implants. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

Revision vs. primary breast implant surgery: how they differ

Revision breast implant surgery and primary breast implant surgery differ in several key aspects:

Purpose

Primary breast implant surgery is the first surgery performed to enhance breast size, shape, or symmetry for cosmetic reasons or reconstructive purposes after mastectomy.

Revision surgery is performed to address complications, aesthetic concerns, or changes in the patient's preferences following a previous breast augmentation procedure.

Complexity

Primary surgery is typically considered less complex as it involves creating a new breast pocket, inserting the implants, and achieving the desired aesthetic outcome.Revision surgery can be more complex due to factors such as existing scar tissue, changes in breast anatomy, implant malposition, or the need to correct complications from previous surgeries.

Risk of complications

While all surgeries carry risks, primary breast implant surgery is generally associated with a lower risk of complications compared to revision surgery.

Revision surgery carries a higher risk of complications due to factors such as scar tissue, implant malposition, implant rupture, or asymmetry that may need to be addressed during the procedure.

Patient expectations

Patients undergoing primary surgery often have clear expectations about their desired breast size, shape, and outcome.Patients undergoing revision surgery may have more complex expectations, including the need to correct previous issues, improve aesthetic results, or address complications.

Consultation and planning

During the consultation for primary breast implant surgery, the focus is on determining the patient's goals, discussing implant options, and planning the surgical approach.

The consultation for revision breast implant surgery involves a detailed assessment of the previous procedure, identification of issues to be addressed, and development of a customized treatment plan to achieve the desired outcome.Overall, while both primary and revision breast implant surgeries aim to enhance the appearance of the breasts, revision surgery is typically more complex, carries a higher risk of complications, and requires a tailored approach to address specific concerns and achieve optimal results. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast revision procedures is essential for patients considering revision breast implant surgery.

FAQs

How common is breast implant revision?

While the exact prevalence of breast implant revision surgeries can vary, studies and clinical data suggest that a significant number of patients who undergo breast augmentation may require revision surgery at some point. Estimates indicate that approximately 20% to 25% of patients who undergo breast augmentation may undergo revision surgery during their lifetime.

How long after breast augmentation can I have a revision?

In general, it is recommended to wait at least 6 to 12 months after the initial breast augmentation surgery before considering a revision.

How many times can you replace breast implants?

The number of times breast implants can be replaced varies for each individual and depends on various factors such as the patient's anatomy, skin elasticity, scarring, and overall breast health. In general, while there is no set limit to the number of times breast implants can be replaced, surgeons typically consider the risk of complications, scar tissue formation, tissue quality, and the patient’s goals to decide if a revision breast implant surgery is right for an individual.

Will breast implant revision surgery leave new scars?

Revision breast implant surgery may result in new scars, depending on the specific nature of the revision procedure and the surgical techniques employed. The location of the incisions made during the revision surgery can impact the visibility of scars. Surgeons may choose to use the existing incision sites from the primary surgery or create new incisions, depending on the nature of the revision needed.