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Breast Revision Surgery

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States. Despite the predictable and typically excellent results, many patients at some point desire or require additional surgery. This may be to increase or decrease their cup size, or change from saline water to cohesive silicone implants, or to lift their breasts. The desire for revision surgery may be the result of a complication that has developed, such as a capsular contracture or implant rippling. Breast revision surgery can be performed to improve a less than satisfactory result, or it can be done to simply remove the implants. Breast implants are not considered permanent devices. The older an implant is, the more likely it is to leak or break. In general, old implants or broken implants should be removed and/or replaced. Fortunately, when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon such as Robert E. Rothfield, MD, FACS, a breast revision procedure can offer a good solution for what may be a difficult problem. This treatment is a special interest of Dr. Rothfield’s. With his attention to detail, compassionate demeanor, considered approach, and customized treatment plans, Dr. Rothfield has helped patients from all over the world who have sought his care after a previous breast augmentation from another surgeon.

What Is Breast Revision Surgery?

Breast revision surgery is a procedure designed to address new aesthetic desires or physical complications and irregularities that may result after the initial breast augmentation. Revisional surgery is considered to be more complex than the original procedure because the surgeon has to precisely navigate scar tissue, altered anatomy, thinning tissue or skin, ruptured/compromised implant material, and/or other concerns. Only an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with the technical skill it takes to successfully achieve the desired improvements should be trusted to perform this procedure.

What Are the Reasons for Breast Revision Surgery?

Most commonly, patients seek breast revision surgery (sometimes referred to as a “revision breast surgery” or a “revision breast augmentation”) to:

  • Exchange/upgrade their current implants to a new type (for example: from saline water implants to cohesive silicone implants)
  • Change the size of the implants
  • Modify the shape or position of the implants
  • Improve the appearance of a previous unsatisfactory augmentation
  • Address a complication such as breast implant rupture, deflation, malposition, rippling, or capsular contracture (hardening of tissue around the implant)
  • Remove the implants altogether for personal reasons

Breast Revision Surgery Types

Although breast implants can have long lifespans, breast implants are not considered permanent devices and there are several factors (including the reasons listed in the above section) that may necessitate their exchange or removal. Here is a more in-depth look at both types of breast revision surgery and how the procedure can help:

Breast Implant Exchange

One of Dr. Rothfield’s most common breast revision surgeries involve the exchange of saline water breast implants for cohesive silicone implants. Cohesive silicone breast implants became fully FDA-approved for use in cosmetic breast surgery in November 2006. Dr. Rothfield currently uses both saline water and cohesive silicone breast implants. Advantages of cohesive silicone implants over saline implants include better shape, more natural feel, and less rippling. Another reason patients may choose to exchange their implants is to increase or decrease their cup size. Additionally, if a complication such as capsular contracture has arisen, patients may choose to exchange their implants for new implants or just remove the implants altogether.

Breast Implant Removal

Patients may be motivated to remove their breast implants for a number of reasons. It may result from the development of multiple recurrent capsular contractures or just a desire to return to their previous breast size and appearance. It may be due to a fear of having an unknown “silent” silicone implant rupture or the development of so-called breast implant illness. Many patients worry that breast implant removal may not be possible and/or are worried about what their post-implant removal appearance will be. However, the majority of patients who have requested and completed removal of their implants are happy with the decision to remove them.

Generally, a single surgery to remove breast implants can provide the desired outcome. Some individuals may wish to add a secondary procedure to their implant removal, such as a breast lift, to remove excess skin. A breast lift can be performed at the same time of implant removal surgery or it can be done after the implants have been removed.

Who Are Good Candidates for Breast Revision Surgery?

Candidates for breast revision surgery include individuals who have previously undergone breast augmentation and want to exchange or remove their current implants. Ideal candidates should also be in good overall health, without any major underlying concerns that would complicate recovery, to ensure a safe procedure and healing process.

Dr. Rothfield will evaluate your needs and goals during the initial consultation and determine whether you are a candidate for breast revision surgery. He will be happy to explain all of your options and answer any questions you may have.

What Is the Breast Revision Procedure Like?

There are many factors that contribute to the surgical plan for breast revision. Each procedure is highly customized to address unique individual concerns.

In many cases, breast revision surgery can be performed through the same incisions as the previous procedure(s). There may be times when additional incisions are necessary. However, Dr. Rothfield makes every attempt to achieve the finest results while minimizing the potential for further scarring.

Both implant removal and implant exchange procedures are usually performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis.

What Can I Expect During Recovery from Breast Revision Surgery?

Recovery from breast revision surgery is usually easier than the initial breast augmentation surgery. While there may be some tenderness after surgery, bruising and swelling are typically minimal. The majority of patients are able to return to work one or two weeks after surgery, although this timeline can vary from one patient to another. Dr. Rothfield will provide detailed post-operative guidelines to help you achieve an efficient and successful recovery after breast revision surgery.

How Much Does Breast Revision Surgery Cost?

The average cost of breast revision surgery can range from $7,900 to $15,000, depending on each patient’s individual treatment plan. Factors that will affect the total price include the length and complexity of the surgery and whether new implants are being placed. For some types of breast implant complications, the implant manufacturer may provide warranty coverage for the breast revision procedure.

During your initial appointment with Dr. Rothfield, you’ll receive a customized estimate based on your unique surgical plan. Weston Plastic Surgery offers financing for qualified applicants through several reputable lending companies. With the help of these third-party lenders, many patients can receive affordable loans and flexible payment plans to help with the cost of their procedure.

Please contact Weston Plastic Surgery to learn more about surgical options available for removing or exchanging breast implants, or to schedule a consultation.

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