What is Breast Revision?
Each year, over 300,000 women in the United States choose breast augmentation surgery to achieve their goal of fuller, more shapely breasts. Most are delighted with their results for years to come, though some may consider breast implant revision surgery later on to refine their look or address any changes that occur over time.
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Why Consider Breast Implant Revision?
There are several reasons why you may desire breast implant revision or replacement surgery, including the following:
Breast Asymmetry
Your natural breasts are not identical in size, shape, or dimensions. As such, it is normal to experience some minor asymmetry before and after your breast augmentation. However, if you are experiencing significant or severe asymmetry, this can typically be corrected with a revision breast augmentation to provide a balanced, complementary appearance.
Deflation or Rupture of Breast Implant
Breast implants are medical devices designed to last, but they can naturally wear down over time. Over time, this wear can lead to a rupture or leak, causing deflation or other changes, depending on the type of implant. During breast implant replacement surgery, a deflated or ruptured saline or silicone implant can be swapped for a new implant of similar size and shape. Or you may choose to replace both implants for a different look and feel. Learn more about the differences between saline and silicone breast implants.
Changes in Breast Appearance Over Time
Gravity, weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or the body’s natural aging process can cause your breast implants to droop, changing the appearance of your breast augmentation results over time. A breast implant revision with a breast lift may be an option to revitalize the appearance of your breasts.
Change Implant Size
This is the most common reason women seek revision surgery. We often hear patients say they wish they had chosen a larger implant for their breast augmentation. Revision breast augmentation offers the chance to adjust your implant size—whether going larger or smaller—to achieve the look that feels just right for you.
Change the Type of Implant
In 2006, the FDA approved cohesive silicone gel breast implants for cosmetic use. If your initial breast augmentation was done before these implants were available, you may choose to replace your current saline breast implants with silicone gel. If you experience rippling or implant visibility as a result of your saline implants, you may also be a candidate for breast implant revision surgery to replace them with silicone gel. Alternatively, albeit less common, some patients elect to exchange their silicone implants for saline implants for a variety of reasons.
Capsular Contracture
After breast implants are placed, the body naturally forms scar tissue, or a capsule, around them as part of the healing process. However, in some cases, this capsule can tighten or constrict the implant, making the breast feel firm and uncomfortable or appear unnatural. A revision breast surgery is performed to excise the capsule from the implant to restore a softer capsule, which can address breast discomfort and restore a more natural, relaxed appearance.
Implant Displacement
In rare cases, the breast implant may shift from its original pocket position, dropping lower or “bottoming out,” causing the nipples to be positioned abnormally high on the breasts. This may happen during the first few months or even several years after your breast augmentation. Revision surgery can be done to reposition the implants into an appropriate place to provide a natural look.
Schedule a Consultation
Revision breast augmentation surgery can be more complex than the original procedure, and there may be surgical limitations depending on your reason for seeking breast implant revision surgery.
During your consultation, Dr. Slenkovich will evaluate your concerns, discuss your goal,s and recommend one or more options to restore an attractive breast appearance.
Why Choose Colorado Plastic Surgery Center?
Revision breast augmentation surgery can be more complex than the original procedure, and depending on your reason for seeking breast implant revision surgery, there may be surgical limitations. This is why we recommend choosing a surgeon with advanced surgical skills who understands the uniqueness of each individual’s body and will approach your procedure with the eye of an artist.
Dr. Nick Slenkovich, founder of Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, brings extensive experience to revision breast surgeries. As a double-board certified plastic and ENT surgeon with over 20 years in practice, he is highly skilled in tailoring procedures to individual needs, addressing the unique challenges of revision procedures, and delivering results that feel and look natural.
Having performed thousands of breast implant revision procedures, Dr. Slenkovich combines surgical techniques with cutting-edge technologies that allow him to emphasize results, longevity, and complication prevention. One of these technologies is treatments with the Aspen Therapy System, which is bundled into all of our breast augmentation revision procedures to reduce the risk of capsular contracture and promote optimal healing. We also include post-operative lymphatic massage, performed conveniently in the office, to optimize surgical outcomes.
Dr. Slenkovich believes in a patient-centered partnership where both parties actively engage in decision-making, and you are empowered to take an active role in your journey to become your personal best. As such, your preferences, values, and needs are prioritized, and open communication and respect are at the forefront of decision-making. During your consultation, Dr. Slenkovich will take the time to understand your concerns, thoroughly assess your current implants, and discuss your personal goals. He will provide a clear, individualized plan and recommend options to help you achieve the breast appearance you desire.
