Breast Implant Revision

About This Procedure

Breast implant revision surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia. The details of the procedure vary, depending on the root of the problem and the patient's anatomical needs.

Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedure. The majority of women who wish to enhance their breasts with saline or silicone breast implants are very happy with their results. But as with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with potential risks and complications that can result in an undesirable outcome. In other cases, the surgery is performed correctly but the patient is unhappy with the size of her breasts. In any case, breast revision can be performed to achieve a more desirable breast appearance.

The plastic surgeons in the Franciscan Health network are known for their extensive training, skill and compassionate approach when treating breast revision cases. Breast revision is tailored to meet each patient's unique concerns in order to achieve the desired outcome.

Ideal patients for breast revision are women who:

• Are no longer happy with the size and shape of their breast implants
• Desire to replace their implants with another type
• Have leaked or ruptured breast implants
• Have developed capsular contracture

When should you consider getting a breast implant revision?

Breast revision can be performed for the following reasons:

• To replace the implant type - Patients may choose to exchange their implant types for various other reasons. For instance, they may desire to replace their saline implants for silicone ones because the latter tend to look and feel more like natural breasts.
• To change implant size - If the breast implants initially selected were either too big or too small, they can be replaced with a different size. For smaller implants, the breast pockets will be reduced to fit them. For bigger implants, the pockets in the natural breast tissue that hold the implants will need to be enlarged.
• To remove implants altogether - Women who simply do not like the look of their breast implants, or who developed a serious complication, can remove their implants without replacing them. If necessary, the plastic surgeon will treat skin that has been stretched out from the breast implants.
• To correct implant malposition - Implant pockets that are created too far apart or too close together can cause the breasts to appear distorted. In these cases, the implant pockets must be modified and relocated to a more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking position.
• To correct capsular contracture - Capsular contracture occurs when the "capsule" (scar tissue around the breast implant) hardens. The breast surgeon will remove the capsule and implant and replace the implant with a new one.

Recovering from breast revision surgery

Generally, recovery from breast revision is similar to the initial breast augmentation recovery. Breast soreness and tenderness is normal and should subside after a few days. Pain medication is prescribed to minimize discomfort during recovery. Patients will need to wear a surgical bra to help control swelling and support the healing tissues. Rest is key during the first week of recovery; patients will need to take at least one week off work.

Vigorous activity, including exercise, bending and lifting, should be avoided until cleared by the plastic surgeon.