Breast Implant Revision
Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., with thousands of women choosing implants to enhance their appearance. While many are pleased with their results, others may experience changes over time or complications that require additional surgery. That’s where breast implant revision comes in.
Dr. Berry Fairchild understands how emotionally challenging it can be to feel unhappy with a previous breast surgery. As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, she specializes in breast implant revision surgery to help patients restore confidence in their appearance. Dr. Fairchild works closely with each patient, taking the time to understand their unique needs and desires, and develops a personalized treatment plan to achieve their ideal outcome. Whether you’re experiencing complications or simply want a change, Dr. Fairchild is the trusted choice for breast implant revision surgery in Houston, Texas.
- What is Breast Implant Revision?
- Common Reasons for a Breast Augmentation Revision
- Types of Breast Implants Revision Procedures
- Benefits of Breast Implant Revision
- Preparing for Your Breast Implant Revision Surgery
- The Breast Implant Revision Surgery Process
- Recovery & Aftercare
- FAQs About Breast Implant Revision
What is Breast Implant Revision?
Breast implant revision surgery is a procedure that involves the removal or replacement of breast implants to address complications or enhance aesthetic outcomes. It is highly personalized, with each surgery tailored to a patient’s unique anatomy, goals, and the condition of their existing implants. Whether you’re correcting a medical issue or simply seeking a more natural look, revision surgery offers the opportunity to restore confidence and achieve results that better reflect your current preferences.
Common Reasons for a Breast Augmentation Revision
Common reasons for breast implant revision in Houston include:
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Breast implants can rupture or leak over time. In this case, revision surgery is needed to remove the damaged implant and replace it with a new one.
- Implant Displacement or Malposition: Breast implants can sometimes shift or move out of place, causing the breasts to look uneven or distorted. Revision surgery can correct the position of the implant by reinforcing or reshaping the implant pocket and improving the overall appearance of the breasts.
- Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is a condition where scar tissue forms around the breast implant, causing the breast to feel firm or hard. Revision surgery can remove the scar tissue and replace the implant to restore a natural look and feel to the breast.
- Change Size or Shape: Some patients may choose to have their breast implants removed or replaced simply because they want a different size or to change the breast shape.
Change Implant Type: Breast implant revision surgery can be performed if the patient wants to change the type of implant they have. For example, if you want to switch from saline implants to silicone implants, or vice versa. - Weight Fluctuations: Weight gain or weight loss can sometimes affect the appearance of breast implants and overlying breast tissue, leading some patients to seek breast implant revision surgery.
- Aging: Aging-related ptosis (sagging) occurs when the breast tissue becomes less firm and elastic, leading to sagging or drooping of the breasts. This can sometimes cause the breast implants to shift or become more noticeable. This breast surgical procedure can address these concerns by removing or replacing the implants and reshaping the breast tissue to create a more youthful and lifted appearance.
Types of Breast Implants Revision Procedures
Depending on your needs, Dr. Fairchild may recommend one or more of the following surgical approaches:
Breast Implant Replacement
Replacing old or damaged implants with new ones, either the same size or a different type, helps restore a natural, symmetrical look.
Breast Implant Removal
This procedure removes implants altogether, often combined with a breast lift or fat transfer to preserve breast shape and volume.
Breast Lift with Implant Revision
Also called a mastopexy, this procedure reshapes and lifts the breasts while replacing or removing implants, restoring a youthful contour.
Fat Transfer to the Breasts
In some cases, Dr. Fairchild may use fat grafting—transferring fat from another area of the body to the breasts—for subtle enhancement after implant removal.
Benefits of Breast Implant Revision
- Improves breast symmetry and contour
- Corrects complications like rupture or capsular contracture
- Reduces discomfort and improves implant positioning
- Allows changes to breast size, shape, or implant type
- Restores a natural appearance
- Enhances self-confidence and body image
Preparing for Your Breast Implant Revision Surgery
Your journey starts with a detailed consultation with Dr. Fairchild. She’ll evaluate your current implants, discuss your concerns, and review your goals to design a custom surgical plan.
To prepare for your procedure, you should:
- Disclose any medical conditions or medications
- Undergo a medical evaluation if needed
- Stop smoking at least a few weeks before surgery
- Follow pre-op instructions (e.g., avoid certain medications and supplements)
- Arrange transportation and recovery support after surgery
The Breast Implant Revision Surgery Process
Breast implant revision surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The surgical approach depends on your specific concerns:
- Dr. Fairchild will remove the implant and place a new one if it has ruptured or leaked.
- For capsular contracture or implant displacement, she will remove the implant and the scar tissue before repositioning or replacing the implant.
- If you choose to downsize or remove implants entirely, Dr. Fairchild may need to perform additional procedures such as a breast lift or breast reduction to achieve your desired results.
Your procedure will be fully customized to achieve the best possible outcome.
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients need several weeks to recover from breast implant revision surgery. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Recovery: Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common. Pain medications and ice packs can help.
- Compression Garment: You’ll wear a supportive bra or compression garment to promote healing and minimize swelling.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 4–6 weeks.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular visits with Dr. Fairchild are essential to monitor your healing progress.
FAQs About Breast Implant Revision
How do I Know If I Need Breast Implant Revision?
Good candidates for breast implant revision surgery are individuals who have undergone previous surgery for breast augmentation and are experiencing issues with their implants, such as ruptures, leaks, implant displacement, or capsular contracture. Candidates may also be those who are unhappy with their breast size or the shape of their current implants and wish to change them.
However, it is important to note that breast implant revision surgery is a complex procedure and not suitable for everyone. Candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery, and be willing to follow all pre-and post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Fairchild. Candidates should also have a stable weight and be non-smokers, as smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for breast implant revision surgery is to discuss your options with Dr. Fairchild.
Can I Get Smaller or Larger Implants During Surgery?
Yes. Whether you want a more natural look with smaller implants or desire more volume, Dr. Fairchild can help select the ideal implant size and shape for your frame and goals.
Will There Be Scarring After the Procedure?
Yes, scarring is a common side effect of breast implant revision surgery, as with any surgical procedure. The extent and visibility of the scarring will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of revision being performed and your individual healing process.
In most cases, the scarring from breast implant revision surgery is minimal and can often be concealed by clothing or swimwear. Dr. Fairchild will make incisions in inconspicuous areas, such as the breast crease or around the areola, to minimize the visibility of any scarring.
Scars will fade and become less noticeable over time, but it is important to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by Dr. Fairchild including her scar protocol to minimize scarring. If scarring is a concern, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss this aspect of the surgery with Dr. Fairchild during your initial consultation to determine the best approach for your specific case.
When Can I Resume Normal Activities?
The timeline for resuming normal activities after breast implant revision surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, your overall health, and your individual healing process. In general, you should plan to take it easy for the first few days after surgery and avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. You may need to take a week or two off work or other daily activities to allow for proper healing.
It is important to follow Dr. Fairchild’s post-operative instructions, including any restrictions on activity and any recommended exercises or stretching to aid in recovery. You’ll need to avoid any activities that could put a strain on the chest area, such as jogging, aerobics, or weightlifting, for several weeks after surgery. In general, you can plan to gradually resume normal activities over the course of several weeks, but it is important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard too soon.
Can I Combine a Breast Implant Revision With Other Procedures?
Breast implant revision surgery can be combined with a variety of other cosmetic procedures to enhance the overall appearance of the breasts and body, including:
- Breast lift can help to lift and reshape the breasts, improving their overall appearance and restoring a more youthful contour.
- Liposuction can be combined with breast implant revision surgery to remove excess fat from other areas of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs. This can help to create a more proportionate and balanced overall appearance.
- Tummy tuck helps flatten and refine the abdomen for a tailored look.
- Mommy Makeover is a comprehensive body contouring procedure that can be performed at the same time as breast implant revision to achieve a more comprehensive transformation.
The specific procedures that can be combined with breast implant revision will depend on your individual cosmetic goals, as well as your overall health and medical history. Dr. Fairchild will discuss all the options available to you and determine the best course of action for achieving your desired results.
Contact Our Board-Certified Breast Surgeon in Houston
If you’re experiencing issues with your current breast implants or simply wish to explore new options, Dr. Berry Fairchild is here to help. Known for her compassionate approach and surgical expertise, she is a trusted choice for breast implant revision in Houston. Schedule a consultation today to learn how she can help you look and feel your best.
