Breast Revision and Implant Exchange
The vast majority of breast augmentation procedures are completed successfully and without complications, resulting in a high level of patient satisfaction. Despite that, some women may eventually need to have adjustments made to their breasts and/or breast implants and will undergo a revision procedure. Breast revision surgery can be used to address cosmetic issues, such as changes in implant size or style, or to correct a problem with the breast implants. If, for any reason, you are unhappy with the outcome of a previous breast surgery, you may be a candidate for a breast revision procedure. Dr. Robert Schlenker, an aesthetic fellowship trained and board certified plastic surgeon, has extensive training and experience performing all types of breast revision techniques. Our state-of-the-art practice emphasizes patient care, safety, and results, and we want you to feel comfortable and confident in your decision to proceed with revision surgery.
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What are the reasons for having breast revision surgery?
Many patients are able to obtain the results they want following breast revision surgery, and your goals will help determine if this procedure is right for you. Patients may choose to have breast revision surgery for a number of reasons, including:
- Implant removal
- Implant volume change (increase or decrease the breast size)
- Implant exchange (upgrade from saline to silicone implants or round to shaped implants)
- Implant rupture or deflation
- Capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around an implant)
- Implant malposition (such as “bottoming out”, lateral displacement of implants, or synmastia)
- Rippling or implant visibility
- Breast asymmetry (enhance the shape and/or symmetry of the breasts)
- Scar revision
Regardless of your reason for pursuing breast revision surgery, Dr. Schlenker can design a personalized treatment plan that offers the best opportunity to achieve your desired outcome.
What will the breast revision procedure be like?
Since the treatment plan will be customized to your particular needs and goals, the surgical procedure will be different for each patient based on the complexity of the case. Whether you are replacing breast implants or removing them, correcting a cosmetic issue, or enhancing your results, the techniques used will be chosen to give you the best outcome. Dr. Schlenker will provide specific details during your initial consultation to ensure that you are well-informed and understand the various aspects of the operation. In most cases, breast revision surgery can be performed using incisions from the original procedure, thus reducing the need for additional scarring.
How long will recovery after breast revision surgery take?
Breast revision surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, and you will be able to return home the same day. Depending on your treatment plan, you may need to take more time off from work and other activities than you did after your previous breast surgery. Most patients take between one to two weeks off from their usual routine, and Dr. Schlenker will discuss additional information about the recovery process during your consultation. It is important to remember that everyone heals at a different rate, and your body may need more or less time to recover than someone else. Minimal swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treated area is to be expected, and medication will be prescribed to manage any pain and discomfort.
Our experienced medical team welcomes your questions. Call us today to learn more about breast revision surgery and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schlenker.