what is Breast Revision Surgery?
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, and in most cases, it produces beautiful and natural outcomes. However, sometimes a woman can be unhappy with the results of her breasts and may require breast revision surgery. It is important to note not all revision surgeries are due to doctor error. While there are a few surgeries that do end with a poor outcome, there are women who desire a different size implant while others may have a problem and ask to have the breast implant revised or taken out altogether. In addition, there are some women who require revision surgery for a specific condition. In West Bloomfield, MI, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Sosa provides breast revision surgery and gives a thorough assessment at Bloomfield Plastic Surgery so that the appropriate outcome is achieved.
Reviews
am i a candidate for breast revision surgery?
If you have any problems (whether cosmetic or medical) about your breast implants, please schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Sosa to talk about your goals and to create your unique surgical plan. Whether it is scarring, breast sag, rippling, or asymmetry, revision surgery can help repair the issue and create a more appealing and healthier outcome. This procedure can also help if you would like to change size, implant styles, or address any other aspect of your breasts.
why is breast revision surgery performed?
Secondary breast augmentation either takes out an implant that is not working or functioning correctly or is no longer wanted. Breast revision surgery may also be performed to switch implant size or go from silicone to saline (or vice versa). There are a few other common cases in which a revision procedure is wanted.
Asymmetry
Asymmetry occurs when the breast implants look out of balance. This is because of a wrong size implant, drooping on one side, or another condition that can possibly cause asymmetry. A thorough assessment would need to be made to determine what is causing the asymmetry, then surgery would be implemented to correct the condition, and finally, new implants would be inserted to attain a proportionate appearance.
Bottoming Out
Bottoming out is a condition that may happen when one or both breasts drop too low or "bottom out." In many cases, this is a positioning and placement error from the first operation. To fix this, a new placement strategy may be recommended. In some cases, tissue grafting will be needed, as well as a surgically produced pocket to securely fit the new implant. For most women, switching to a silicone implant will solve this problem.
Breast Size
There are times revision surgery is as simple as receiving a larger or smaller sized implant. With the original surgery, you may have chosen to go too small or big. A new breast implant size can be inserted to attain the desired look.
Capsular Contracture
This is the term used for an area of hardening because of scarring, occurring when the smooth tissue around the breast implant becomes hard and thickens. While breast implants do result in some internal hardening, most individuals will never realize this. In some instances, the scarring could change the implant placement, which could change the implant function and create an undesirable outcome. Scar removal surgery to reduce scarring would be needed.
Implant Rippling
Rippling occurs when there are noticeable lines and ripples beneath the skin. This condition generally forms around the edge of the implant. Rippling is more common in females who are relatively thin. Often, this condition can be repaired by simply changing to a silicone implant.
Implant Rupture
Although this is uncommon, implant rupture may occur. If a saline breast implant ruptures, deflation will take place rather quickly. Therefore, a visible appearance will occur. On the other hand, if an implant made of silicone ruptures, it is only caught through an MRI. In either case, if a rupture happens, a corrective treatment will be needed.
Symmastia
This condition happens when implants are positioned too close together. In most cases, this is because the implant selected was the wrong shape, size, and width. A secondary procedure will correct this issue by choosing an implant that is acceptable to your body type and looks balanced.
how long is recovery after a breast revision?
After your surgery and an observation period, you will be sent home to start your recovery. The overall recovery varies based upon the complexity of your surgery. Any type of revision that requires grafting or complex reconstruction will incur a longer recovery that may take up to several months. You should begin to see your results once the swelling begins to disappear. Dr. Sosa or a member of his team will go over what is normal during your recovery, as well as suggestions to help speed your healing. You should attend follow-up appointments as directed so Dr. Sosa can assess your recovery and results.
Change Your Mind, Enhance your look
Breast implant revision surgery is a custom treatment tailored for your individual problem by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Sosa. If you're displeased with your breast implants or want a different outcome, we welcome you to contact our West Bloomfield, MI office to book your appointment at Bloomfield Plastic Surgery. There are many factors to think about and Dr. Sosa will provide you with a full physical examination, create your revision recommendations, and help set realistic goals and expectations.