Breast Revision Surgery

Consultations offered at our three convenient locations in Austin, TX, San Antonio, TX and Westlake Hills, TX

A woman covering her breasts with her hands, representing successful breast revision surgery at Austin Plastic Surgeon.

Breast revision is a surgical procedure that corrects or enhances the results of a previous breast augmentation or breast lift. Breast revision surgeries occur for a variety of reasons with the goal of improving the overall appearance of the breasts. The most common reason patients have secondary breast surgery is to change the size of their breasts. However, other reasons are common as well such as dissatisfaction with the outcome, changes in personal preferences, or the desire for further improvement, breast revision can address various issues and provide patients with improved breast aesthetics. Implant exchange is one of the most common secondary breast surgeries.

At Austin Plastic Surgeon, our experienced plastic surgeons specialize in breast revision surgery procedures. If you’re interested in learning more about breast implant exchange or if you have specific questions, we invite you to contact one of our locations to schedule a personal consultation.

Before & After Photos

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Why Do People Undergo Breast Revision Surgery?

Breast revision surgery is a surgical procedure designed to correct and improve the results of previous breast augmentation surgeries. It is estimated that up to 36% of patients who have undergone breast augmentation may desire revision surgery at some point in their lives. (1)

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is the hardening of the breast that can cause pain or deformity of the breasts. It is the most common issue that arises from implant-based augmentation. (2) Typically this is treated by exchanging the implant and removing all of the thickened capsule (scar tissue). This will soften the breast and improve the shape. Occasionally, special materials are needed in an attempt to prevent the scar tissue from returning such as one of the biologic meshes, site change of implant placement, or other advanced techniques.

Rippling

Visible rippling can occur in thin patients as the edge of the implant is visualized through the skin. This is much less common with silicone implants than with the saline implants that were used previously. This is one of the reasons that the gummy bear and gummy bear plus implants have become so common in our practice. However, it can still happen and other breast revision methods can be done to treat this such as fat transfer, use of the highly cohesive gummy bear implants, or the placement of a biologic mesh that is used as an internal bra to add support and coverage of the implant. The appearance of rippling has become more common with so many patients on their weight loss journey. As they lose weight, they also lose adipose tissue in the breast, this can lead to the phenomenon known as “Ozempic Breast”. This loss of tissue around the implant can increase the risk of rippling.

Ptosis

Ptosis (sagging) of your breast can occur whether or not you have had previous augmentation. The breasts can still change over time with the usual factors such as weight loss, pregnancy, and age. Gravity continues to affect a woman’s breasts whether they have had implants placed previously or not. Breast ptosis following weight loss is a common concern among individuals who have experienced significant weight reduction using semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) medications, and may include more changes than just loss of volume. Increased laxity of skin or changes in skin thickness can also be seen.

Aesthetic Changes

Aesthetic deformity of the breasts is another rare cause for secondary surgery. Occasionally, women have breast augmentation or other breast surgery and are not happy with their results. They should first discuss this with their surgeon but may desire a second opinion or a different surgeon to revise the breast surgery.

Breast Implant Malposition

Over time the breast implant can shift position. Often patients will come in and feel like their implant has gone towards their armpit or has what we call “bottomed out”, or descended below the inference fold of the breast. Some of the new technology, including internal bra techniques and meshes, has been revolutionary in improving the overall shape of the breast because it can hold the implant in a better position. This can be done in combination with traditional advanced surgical techniques to adjust the pocket and the internal placement of the breast implant which will result in an improved overall shape.

Internal bra techniques using biologic or absorbable mesh materials have improved the overall longevity and revision of a breast implant malposition. When the implant is not in the proper position this will help increase the upper fullness, take some of the weight off of the breast itself, and improve the cleavage that can be achieved with the augmentation or breast lift and revision.

Internal Bra

The use of an internal bra refers to a couple of different surgical methods to help improve the overall shape of the breast. Typically this can be done in multiple stages and typically in combination treatments during the breast revision surgery. The internal pocket, the pocket where the breast implant sits, can be altered using advanced surgical techniques. This can also be reinforced with some of the novel breast support structures such as Durasorb and GalaFLEX. These meshes are either a biologic synthetic absorbable mesh or a combination of these tissues. They can be used for several functions, one, to reinforce the support of structures to hold the implant in the proper position, and two, they can also be used in the treatment of the layer around the implant to decrease visible rippling. The technology of these supportive structure meshes has made significant advances, which is why they have become much more popular in recent years. Also, the massive amount of patients undergoing weight loss has made Ozempic breast much more common, so being proactive about treating the potential for visible rippling and loss of soft tissue support with weight loss has been of critical importance in the evolution of breast surgery.

Benefits

  • Treatment of Ozempic Breast: Many patients have been on their weight loss journey and they may see changes to their breasts such as loss of volume, rippling, and ptosis of the breast. The surgeons at Austin Plastic Surgeon can help improve all of the issues associated with Ozempic Breast.
  • Resolution of Complications: This specialized surgery can address complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture and provide relief from associated symptoms.
  • Improved Aesthetic Outcome: By addressing concerns such as rippling, wrinkling, or sagging, breast revision surgery can improve the overall appearance of the breasts.
  • Increased Comfort and Functionality: Breast implants that cause discomfort, pain, or interfere with physical activities can be replaced with new implants that provide greater comfort and functionality.
  • Updated Implant Size or Material: Patients who desire a change in breast size or want to switch to a different type of implant material can achieve their desired outcome through breast revision surgery.
  • Enhanced Breast Symmetry: Breast revision surgery can correct breast asymmetry issues that may have been present after a previous augmentation procedure.
  • Internal Bra Placement: Internal bra placement is a term used to describe surgical techniques and products used to support the implant or correct the placement of a previously placed implant. This can be done with advanced surgical techniques and possibly with the addition of a support mesh that can help hold the breast implant in the correct position.
  • Restored Confidence: Breast revision surgery can help restore confidence by resolving issues such as implant malposition or bottoming out, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable in their own bodies.

Ideal Candidates

  • You wish to change the size of your breasts
  • Ruptured saline or silicone implant
  • Your breasts have changed shape after children or weight loss
  • You have developed capsular contracture from your previous breast augmentation
  • Your breasts are not symmetrical
  • If your breasts have fallen down or to the side and no longer sit in the proper position
  • You are in good health.
  • You have realistic expectations

Talk with your board-certified plastic surgeon about breast implant exchange or other breast revisions in Austin options to determine which choice is right for you.

Personal Consultation

A topless woman with hands on her chest, showcasing improved breast aesthetics after breast revision surgery at Austin Plastic Surgeon.

A personal consultation at Austin Plastic Surgeon is an important first step in determining whether breast revision surgery is the right option for you. During this consultation, your Austin Plastic Surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and discuss your specific concerns and goals related to breast augmentation. A physical examination will then be conducted to assess the current state of your breasts, including any signs of capsular contracture, implant malposition, or other issues that may require surgical correction.

Your surgeon will explain all aspects of the breast revision procedure, including potential risks and benefits, and discuss realistic expectations for your desired outcomes. He will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs, providing detailed explanations of each step involved in breast revision surgery.

To schedule a personal consultation at Austin Plastic Surgeon and learn more about breast revision surgery options, contact our office at (512) 309-1815.

Preparation

Proper preparation before breast revision surgery is crucial for a smooth procedure and optimal outcomes. The team at Austin Plastic Surgeon will provide you with detailed preoperative instructions to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some general preparations you can anticipate:

  • Discontinue blood thinners: It’s essential to discontinue any medications or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding before surgery. The surgeons at Austin Plastic Surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines regarding which medications should be stopped and when.
  • Nicotine cessation: Smoking and nicotine use significantly impact the healing process. It is recommended to stop smoking and using nicotine products weeks leading up to the surgery and to remain nicotine-free during the recovery period.
  • Fill prescriptions: The surgeons at Austin Plastic Surgeon will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics if necessary. Fill these prescriptions before your surgery to have them readily available for use after the procedure.
  • Arrange transportation: If sedation or general anesthesia is used during the surgery, coordinating transportation to and from the surgical facility is essential. It is also advisable to have someone available to assist you during the first few days of your recovery.
  • Time off work: Take into account the necessary time for recovery and plan accordingly by arranging time off from work and social commitments to allow for adequate rest.

Following these preparations diligently will help ensure a safe surgery and promote a faster and more comfortable recovery. The Austin Plastic Surgeon team will guide you through this process, providing specific instructions tailored to your unique circumstances.

Procedure

The breast revision surgery procedure is tailored to address the individual concerns and goals of each patient. Depending on the nature of the issues identified during the personal consultation, your Austin Plastic Surgeon will develop a personalized surgical plan specifically designed to correct or improve the previous breast augmentation results.

  • Implant removal or replacement: If silicone or saline implant rupture, deflation, or suboptimal positioning is a concern, your surgeon will remove and replace the implants.
  • Capsular contracture treatment: For patients with capsular contracture, your surgeon will carefully dissect and remove the thickened scar tissue (capsule) surrounding the implant. They may also recommend using a supportive mesh (internal bra) to place around the implant to minimize the risk of recurrence.
  • Breast lift or repositioning: In cases where sagging or malpositioned implants are present, your surgeon may conduct a breast lift procedure concurrently with implant removal or replacement to restore a lifted and youthful breast contour.
  • Revision of incisions: Incisions used during the initial breast augmentation may be revised to achieve improved aesthetic outcomes or address any concerns related to scarring. Your surgeon often uses the inframammary approach, making an incision in the fold beneath the breasts, as it offers excellent access and allows for discreet scars.
  • Fat transfer: Transferring fat to the breasts can add volume, help address rippling and correct asymmetries. This is often done through small, inconspicuous incisions. In the right circumstances, it can have a dramatic result.

Recovery

You will be advised to wear a supportive surgical garment to aid in reducing swelling and providing stability and comfort in the postoperative period. Swelling and bruising around the breasts are normal after surgery and will gradually subside over time. Your surgeon will provide recommendations on managing these symptoms, which may include keeping your head elevated and using cold compresses as appropriate. They will also prescribe medication to manage any postoperative discomfort. It’s crucial to take the prescribed medication as directed to alleviate pain effectively.

Recovery times vary based on individual cases, but most patients can resume non-strenuous activities and return to work within one to two weeks. Your surgeon will advise you on when it is safe to engage in more rigorous activities. It is important to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with him to monitor your progress and address any concerns or questions that arise during your recovery.

Results

Breast revision surgery provides patients with the opportunity to achieve improved breast aesthetics, symmetry, and overall satisfaction with their breast augmentation outcomes. While individual results vary, most patients experience immediate improvements following surgery, with final results becoming apparent as swelling subsides and the tissues settle.

Cost of Breast Revision Surgery in Austin

After your personal consultation at Austin Plastic Surgeon, we will develop a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals, allowing for accurate pricing information to be provided.

To find out more about breast revision surgery, please contact our practice to schedule a personal consultation.

FAQ

Can I change my implant size with breast revision surgery?

Yes! During the revision surgery, the surgeon can remove the existing implants and replace them with larger or smaller implants according to your desired size or aesthetic goals. It’s important to discuss your preferences and goals with your plastic surgeon so they can recommend the best options for achieving the results you want.

Can breast revision surgery correct breast asymmetry?

Breast revision surgery offers an opportunity to address breast asymmetry resulting from a previous augmentation procedure. The surgeon evaluates the individual’s specific concerns and suggests appropriate techniques to achieve a more balanced breast appearance.

When can I return to work after breast revision surgery?

The timeline for returning to work varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing patterns. Most patients can resume non-strenuous work within two weeks following surgery. However, this timeline may be longer if the work involves physically demanding activities.

How long does it take to see results after breast revision surgery?

Patients will notice an immediate improvement in the appearance of their breasts after the surgery, despite the presence of swelling and bruising. As the healing process progresses and the swelling subsides, the final results will become more apparent. The full outcome of breast revision surgery can be appreciated several months after the procedure.

References

  1. Denney BD, Cohn AB, Bosworth JW, Kumbla PA. Revision Breast Augmentation. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2021;35(02):098-109. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0041-1727272
  2. Gorgy A, Barone N, Nepon H, et al. Implant-based breast surgery and capsular formation: when, how and why?-a narrative review. Annals of Translational Medicine. 2023;11(11):385. doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/atm-23-131