Many patients are unaware that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Often, patients will find that several years following their initial augmentation, gravity will have shifted their implants. Breast implants can also change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and other natural processes. Other patients seek breast implant revision to correct complications and errors of a primary breast augmentation, which has either created an aesthetic issue or a health risk – or both. Fortunately, breast augmentation revision is most commonly performed on women who feel their initial augmentation has not enhanced their breasts enough.
Most revision procedures are done in Dr. Taylor’s operating room under local or mild sedation anesthesia. Occasionally these will be done in an outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia. Breast augmentation revision allows a patient to benefit from advances in technology since their original procedure. The overall goal is to restore a youthful, natural, breast contour and appearance.
Why Should I Consider Breast Implant Revision?
There are several reasons a patient may need a breast augmentation revision procedure; deflated or leaking implants, a change in size, a change in the position of the implants, a change from saline-filled to silicone or vice versa, poor implant placement, trauma, nipple sensitivity and loss of sensitivity, changes in the breast after weight loss or pregnancy, and to correct problems associated with capsular contractor or excess scar tissue. Patients may also wish to change from one implant filler material to another, or even remove their breast implants entirely. Ultimately, patients are comforted in knowing that the number one reason women seek breast augmentation revision is a desire for even larger breasts – not due to procedural complications.
Like any cosmetic procedure, candidates for breast augmentation revision should be in good health, and be non-smokers, or refrain from smoking prior to the procedure. If patients are expecting to be pregnant in the near future, or will undergo significant weight loss or gain, they should postpone the procedure until after these events as these are at risk of altering your breast implant revision surgery.
Concerns of Breast Implant Leak – Saline vs. Silicone
If you are concerned that your saline or silicone breast implants may be leaking, contact Dr. Taylor immediately to schedule an X-ray or MRI – this is the easiest way to determine the results of any suspicion.
Saline implants will tend to deflate rapidly and very noticeably. Your body is also able to absorb the saline released by the implant. Silicone implants tend to leak more slowly. It is these that you should be most concerned about and diligent in scheduling an exam to determine if a leak has actually occurred. This will allow Dr. Taylor to immediately address and prevent your breast implant from deflating.
Recovery & Costs
Dr. Taylor will discuss all costs and recovery periods and instructions prior to your procedure. Although these will vary depending upon your specific needs, recovery from and the cost of breast augmentation revision is comparable to your initial procedure, if not lessened. You may also have a warranty with the breast implant company. This can be determined as long as you have the implant manufacturer and serial numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Revision
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Can I increase the size of my implants during a breast revision?
Yes, your breast implant revision is an excellent opportunity to change the type or size of your implants. Your body may have changed since you got your implants, and a new size may better fit your body’s contour.
You can also downsize after your breast implants, but this might leave sagging skin which will require a breast lift to address.
During your consultation, your plastic surgeon can walk you through all your options.
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How long should I wait before a breast revision?
The answer will depend on why you’re getting the breast implant revision. If you’re in pain or suspect a leaking implant, you’ll need to address the issue immediately. On the other hand, if you’re just ready for a change, you can book the revision at a time that’s convenient for you.
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What are the possible risks and complications with a breast revision?
Breast implant revision is a standard procedure and is typically very safe. Still, all medical surgeries come with some element of risk. Some of the rare risks and complications include:
- A loss of nipple sensation
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Breast deformity
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Will I have more scars after breast revision surgery?
Dr. Taylor tries to follow the existing scars from your initial breast augmentation surgery whenever possible. This ensures you don’t have unnecessary additional scarring. Most women feel the benefits of their breast revision results outweigh the risk of further scarring. If you’re concerned about scarring, you can mention it during your consultation, and Dr. Taylor will answer your questions.
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Will insurance cover my breast revision?
Almost every insurance provider considers a breast implant revision to be a purely cosmetic procedure and won’t offer coverage. Still, it’s always best to call your insurance provider directly and find out your personal coverage.
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Should I go to my original doctor who did my breast augmentation?
Not necessarily. As long as you find a qualified plastic surgeon whose qualifications you trust, you can try a new doctor. We recommend always looking at before and after photos to ensure you like the doctor’s work.
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How will my breasts look after a breast revision?
Your breasts should meet your desired look after your breast revision. You’ll feel like a new, refreshed person!
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Are breast revision results permanent?
Technically speaking, yes, the results from the procedure are permanent, barring any complication with the new implant. Still, gravity and natural aging will take a toll and can alter your results over time.
Additionally, new implants will still need to be replaced every 10 years or so.
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Is breast revision an outpatient procedure?
Yes, breast implant revision is typically an outpatient procedure. Patients will need to have someone to drive them home and watch over them for at least the first night. For simple breast revisions, it is performed under local anesthesia at Dr. Taylor’s office. This is a fairly easy procedure with minimal recovery.
