Breast Revision

Plastic surgeons have many tools in their toolbox to try to improve the way a breast looks. Some things are simple and can be done in the office. Other things are more complex and require that you go to the operating room. Some procedures can be done under just local anesthesia, while others need you to go to “sleep” (general anesthesia). 

You wouldn’t want to use a carpenter that could only use a hammer, would you? No, you’d look for a carpenter that was skilled at using a hammer, screwdriver, pliers or whatever might be needed to fix your house. 

Likewise, some “cosmetic surgeons” out there picked up their skills “on-the-fly” and only know how to use the simplest technique. Well-trained Plastic Surgeons, on the other hand, have a lot of experience in breast surgery and know the many options that are out there. Seeing our Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a consultation is the best way to find out which might be the best approach to fix the things that have been bothering you. Together, you will sit down, discuss the options and pick a surgical plan that works for you.

The areas that breast revision surgery may be able to help correct are:

• Where the left and right breasts look different
• Sagging breasts
• Breasts implants that are “hard” (capsular contracture)
• Breasts that are too small or too big
• Deflated or ruptured implant
• When you want your implants removed
• Nipples or areola that are too big
• Changing saline implants to silicone or vice-versa

The list goes on and on. No matter how big or small the issue, discuss it with your plastic surgeon at your consult. They will tell you if that can be improved and how to best do it.

Because breast revision surgery can involve so many different surgical approaches, the best way to know how much the surgery will cost is to make an appointment with one of our Plastic Surgeons. At your consultation, the surgeon will give you their best recommendation and our Cosmetic Coordinator will give you the quote. 

Looking into getting financing? No problem. Our Cosmetic Coordinator will give you several options and walk you through the process. 

Breast Revision surgery can involve multiple types of surgery, including:

• Breast implants
• Breast lift
• Removing any excessive scar tissue around the implant
• Adjusting the capsule to improve the look of the implant
• Making the nipple or areola smaller

Some of these procedures can take an hour, while others may take 3-4 hours or more, depending on the complexity. During your consultation, our plastic surgeon will describe the procedure in more detail and answer any questions that you might have.

Although uncommon, there can be complications after Breast Revision Surgery

Asymmetry

Our body always has differences between the left and right sides. Look at your eyebrows. Are they exactly the same? Probably not. In the same way, we cannot expect our left and right breasts to look exactly the same after surgery. Our aim is to make them look more similar, but perfect symmetry is not possible. 

Scarring

Scarring is largely individually determined by your genetic heritage. People who scar poorly likely had an ancestor that scarred poorly. That part can’t be changed. But our surgeons will do their best to do what they can to optimize your scar healing environment. This includes careful, artistic suturing during surgery and detailed care instructions after surgery. 

Q: How much time is needed for Breast Revision Surgery?
A: It can vary from 1 hour to several hours, depending on the type of surgery you need and the complexity of your particular case.

Q: Is Breast Revision Surgery an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
A: Outpatient.

Q: What are the most common problems after Breast Revision Surgery?
A:  Issues can include discomfort, pain, swelling, and numbness, all of which are usually temporary. You will also have a visible scar. Your surgeon can tell you how long and where you can expect that scar to be.

Q: What is the recovery time?
A: Everyone is a little different, but, in general, most people can go back to work in about a week.