What Are the Different Types of Breast Revision Surgeries?
The goal of a breast enhancement procedure is to sculpt, youthful, symmetrical breasts that last years. Many people undergo their initial breast enhancement procedure and adore their results; for some, this isn’t always the case. Either their results aren’t exactly what they were expecting, or years down the line, their desired aesthetic has changed. For some women, they are experiencing complications, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. For any of these circumstances, breast revision surgery is the ideal option for enhancing the results of your initial breast enhancement procedure.
At Restora Austin, Dr. Dustin Reid and Dr. Ashley Gordon offer different methods of breast revision surgeries that they tailor to your specific needs. The different types of breast revision surgeries include implant exchange surgery, capsular contracture surgery, and implant malposition surgery.
What Is Breast Revision Surgery and Who Needs It?
Breast revision surgery is a procedure that amends complications or dissatisfying results from a previous breast augmentation. Women often seek breast revision if they are unhappy with the results of their breast implants. For example, they may be experiencing asymmetry or feel their implants are too large for their figure and lifestyle.
A breast revision may also become necessary if an issue has arisen after breast augmentation. If implants have become infected or become ruptured, a breast revision will become necessary.
A breast revision is for those who are discontent with the results of their initial breast augmentation, those who desire to change their aesthetic or want to accommodate their lifestyle, and those who are experiencing complications from their breast augmentation surgery.
What Are the Types of Breast Revision Surgeries?
Implant Exchange Surgery
There are a number of reasons why you may want to exchange your current implants for new ones. Some of the most common reasons are that patients want to exchange their implants for a more appropriate size, maintain their current look, or fix a complication. Implant exchange surgery can seamlessly adapt your breast implants to your current desired appearance.
Capsular Contracture
During the healing process, every breast implant procedure involves the formation of a capsule or a thin layer of scar tissue that surrounds the breast implant. Unfortunately, for some patients, the capsule starts to thicken and intrude on the implant until it starts to constrict it, causing great discomfort and misshapen breasts that feel hard. A capsular contracture surgery is the perfect treatment for removing the capsule and replacing the implant with a new one.
To help reduce capsular contracture, Dr. Gordon and Dr. Reid use Strattice™ Reconstructive Tissue Matrix, a revolutionary new technique that reduces the occurrence of capsular contracture by 5%.
Implant Malposition Surgery
Implant malposition is when a breast implant slowly migrates out of position, causing the natural folds and contours of the breasts to be obscured. This can be fixed with breast implant revision surgery.
Common signs of implant malposition include:
- Bottoming out— The implants have migrated downward and sit way too low on the chest.
- Double Bubble— The implants have migrated low on the chest, creating the appearance of a double set of breasts.
- Wrinkling or rippling— Underfilled implants can become rippled and folded, which can be noticeable underneath the skin.
- Symmastia— The breast becomes lifted and pushed together in the midline of the sternum, forming a “uni-boob.”
What Are the Reasons For Undergoing a Breast Revision Surgery?
The most common reasons for undergoing a breast revision surgery include:
- Capsular contracture, or scar tissue surrounding the implants
- Implant rupture
- Wrinkling
- Asymmetry
- Double Bubble
- Malposition
- Symmastia
- Change in appearance over time
Can Breast Revision Surgery Address Complications From Previous Surgeries?
A breast revision is often the only way to address complications from previous surgeries.
In order to correct capsular contracture, Dr. Gordon or Dr. Reid will need to go back into the breast pocket and remove the capsule and the implant. This is the most effective method of restoring the appearance of your breasts and your overall comfort.
The same is true for implant rupture or cases of malposition. Dr. Gordon or Dr. Reid will use the same incision created during your initial surgery to remove the damaged or malpositioned implant and replace it with a new one in the correct position.
What Should You Expect During a Breast Revision?
The process of getting a breast revision involves removing the existing breast implant and replacing it with a new one. Usually, incisions for this surgery are made in the same location as the original breast augmentation procedure. Depending on your aesthetic goals, your present breast tissue may be reshaped to reinforce the breast tissue for long-lasting results.
A breast revision does require the use of general anesthesia. However, most patients are able to return home after their procedure as long as they have reliable transportation. Your incisions will be closed with sutures that may require drains. Overall, the entire procedure and recovery will be similar to your initial breast augmentation surgery.
What Are the Latest Techniques in Breast Revision Surgery?
Surgical techniques and methods are constantly evolving to create better and longer-lasting results while prioritizing patient safety. As leaders in the plastic surgery community, Restora Austin is among the first to explore these different avenues to better help their patients.
The latest technique in breast revision surgery is the Strattice™ Reconstructive Tissue Matrix (RTM). Strattice™ is an acellular tissue matrix designed to reinforce weak tissue and support tissue regeneration through rapid revascularization, cell repopulations, and white cell migration. It is created from porcine dermis that is strong, pliable, and sterile. With Strattice™, Dr. Gordon and Dr. Reid have witnessed its ability to decrease the chance of some implant complications arising and greatly limit the need for revision surgery in the future.
How Long Is the Recovery Process After Breast Revision Surgery?
The average breast revision recovery time can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. For the first week, you’ll be required to focus on resting. Your chest will be bound with and supported by a protective bra, which will need to be worn at all times during the initial stages of your recovery and only removed during showers.
During the second to fourth week of your recovery, you can start going on leisurely walks, and most patients are able to return to work. All strenuous activities, including running and lifting heavy objects, should be avoided for at least six weeks or until your surgeon has cleared you to continue these activities.
Ready To Schedule Your Breast Revision Surgery?
With the expert help of renowned and critically acclaimed surgeons Dr. Reid and Dr. Gordon, you can revitalize your desired breast look, as well as aid in any discomfort that complications may be causing. Explore more about your breast revision options and find out if you are a good candidate for breast revision surgery by calling (512) 371-8817 or completing our online form to schedule an informative and friendly consultation at Restora Austin.
