We often hear from women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery from another practice and are unhappy with their results. Sometimes, they feel they chose implants that were too big and feel unnatural on their frame and others think their implants are asymmetrical. Still, in other cases, breast augmentation surgery was successful, but natural causes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding and gravity change the look of breast implants, causing some women to no longer be happy with their breasts.
Women who have had breast augmentation surgery and are unhappy with their current breast shape or size may consider breast revision surgery. The question then becomes whether to have their implants removed entirely or replaced. We explore both options below and provide information on the details for each procedure to help make the best decision.
What is Breast Revision Surgery?
Breast revision surgery is when a woman who has previously had breast augmentation undergoes a second procedure to have her implants either replaced or removed. Breast revision is not uncommon, as breast implants are a medical device and are prone to problems the longer they are in place.
Should I Remove or Replace My Breast Implants?
Most plastic surgeons, like Dr. Comizio, will recommend replacing implants during breast revision surgery if implants have already been placed. The rationale is once implants have been put into the breast cavity, they typically stretch out the breast tissue and can cause breasts to appear deflated and shapeless when they are removed.
If the decision is to remove breast implants completely during breast revision surgery, it is possible there may be enough breast tissue to create an acceptable cup size without a replacement implant. Sometimes a breast lift, or mastopexy, can be performed. A breast lift involves more reconstruction to the outer tissues, and the breast tissue itself is not lifted. During the procedure, your surgeon will remove excess skin and tighten the skin and tissue around the area, raising the breasts.
Ultimately, it is a personal decision that Dr. Comizio can help guide during a consultation.
What is the Recovery Time for Breast Revision Surgery?
Typical recovery time for a breast revision surgery is two weeks. This is to ensure proper healing of the breasts and that the stitches do not rupture. After two weeks, most women can resume their normal, light activities, although rigorous exercise must be delayed for several more weeks.
What Type of Results Can I Expect from a Breast Revision Surgery?
The results from a breast revision surgery are very individual. It depends on the condition of the breast tissue, the previous implant and the overall health of a patient. If the choice is to reduce breast implants significantly or remove them all together, there will be an adjustment period to the new size. There is often saggy or deflated skin that has been previously stretched. As an expert in breast revision surgery, Dr. Comizio is dedicated to achieving the best results possible and will walk through all scenarios prior to surgery. If a breast lift is involved, by removing excess skin and adding contour, the results can be outstanding.
Our office always offers consultations prior to making a decision on breast revisions. Simply call our office: (973) 775-9248 or fill out a request form on our website: DrReneeComizio.com
