What is Breast Revision?
Breast revision, also known as breast implant revision, is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to replace breast implants or correct issues after breast augmentation. Although most breast augmentation surgeries are successful with no significant complications, breast implants can sometimes change or develop problems over time. For example, an implant may deflate or start leaking. Alternatively, the appearance of the implants may change due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations. In these situations, breast revision can be used to correct the appearance of the breasts.
Benefits of Breast Revision
For anyone who’s unsatisfied with the short or long-term results of breast augmentation, breast revision can offer some or all of the following benefits:
- Corrects various breast implant complications, including capsular contracture and ruptured implants
- Enhances the size, shape, and/or symmetry of the breasts
- Addresses unsatisfactory breast augmentation results
- Increases self-confidence
- Increases wardrobe options
- Replaces disfigured or misshapen breast implants
- Restores the youthful appearance of the breasts
- Allows for the possibility of switching to a different type of breast implants
Common Reasons for Breast Revision Surgery
There are many reasons to consider a breast revision surgery, ranging from aesthetic to medical complications resulting from a prior breast augmentation. Common aesthetic reasons for a revision include changing size of implants, adjusting the position of existing implants, or removing implants completely. In most cases the surgeon can use the existing incision site from the previous surgery to avoid additional scarring. Breast revision surgery may also be performed to adjust nipple and areola positioning. Repositioning of the nipple typically requires additional incisions, but our surgeons work to keep the nipple joined with the surrounding tissues underneath to preserve sensation and the ability to breastfeed. Our experienced breast revision surgeon will focus on reducing significant scarring and placing incisions in locations that will be covered with clothing.
A common reason women seek breast revision surgery is after an implant ruptures or leaking is discovered. A breast revision performed by our respected surgical team in Charlotte can replace ruptured or deflated implants, and restore symmetry to your breasts. Capsular contracture is another common reason a woman may need breast revision surgery, when there has been a severe tightening of the tissue formed around the implant, leading to deformation, increased hardness, and breasts that are both unattractive and painful. The surgeon will use the previous incision to remove the implant and capsule and insert a new implant.
Should I Get Breast Revision Surgery?
If you are struggling with any of the following aesthetic or medical issues, revision surgery may finally bring you relief, and natural-looking, plump, attractive breasts:
- Botched breast augmentation
- Unevenly-sized breasts after augmentation
- Unevenly placed breast implants
- Overlarge implants
- Implants too small
- Ruptured implants
- Old implants
- Capsular contracture
- Replace silicone implants with saline implants (or the reverse)
Breast Revision Procedure
Typically, breast revision surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia. However, local anesthesia with IV sedation may be used in some cases. To begin, your surgeon will make an incision either along the crease of the breast or around the areola. If necessary, they will then excise scar tissue before removing the affected implant. Once the implant has been removed, your doctor will insert your new, customized breast implant and carefully position it. Finally, they will close the incision with sutures and apply bandages to the area. You will likely be able to return home a couple of hours after the procedure, but you’ll need someone else to drive you.
Know the Risks
Before undergoing surgery, your medical history must be thoroughly evaluated to identify any existing medical conditions. We will also review the medications and supplements you are taking. Although serious complications are very rare, all patients are informed of the risks of any surgery. Pain, swelling, and tenderness are common but treatable with medication. Recovery time is typically similar to the original breast enhancement procedure. Your healing progress will be carefully monitored, and you will be personally guided through every aspect of postoperative care by our surgeons and caring staff.
Why Choose Criswell & Criswell for Your Breast Revision?
At Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery, our team is fully dedicated to providing patients with compassionate care and state-of-the-art cosmetic techniques. Dr. Kara Criswell and Dr. Bryan Criswell are board-certified plastic surgeons known for their skill, experience, and consistently excellent results. They will work closely with you to understand your unique needs and preferences and ensure that your breast revision provides you with the outcome you desire.
Recovery and Care
Immediately following your surgery, the first step is to relax in our recovery room, overseen by our licensed registered nurse. You can remain there until you are fully awake, at which point you will be released to go home. Transportation should be arranged beforehand, as you will not be permitted to drive for 24 hours following the surgery.
While we recommend waiting a full week before returning to work, some patients are able to do it in 5 or 6 days, provided the work does not require physical strain. Normal bras and bikini tops may be worn once two weeks have passed. Exercise and any sort of strenuous activity are prohibited for the first five days following surgery. Light exercise may be resumed at this point, but more vigorous physical activity should not take place until three weeks since surgery.
Your relationship with our office is not over once the procedure is complete. For the weeks and months following the surgery, we are at your disposal—you are more than welcome to call whenever you like with any questions or concerns. Additionally, there will be several follow up appointments with your surgeon to check on the healing process. This will include information regarding breast health, including self-examination, exercise, sleeping habits and any future need for imaging or mammography.
