Quick Facts About Breast Revision
Restore Confidence and Comfort
At Impressions Face + Body, we know that the decision to undergo breast augmentation comes with questions and concerns, especially if you’re considering additional surgeries. Whether you're unhappy with the outcome of your initial breast augmentation surgery or you’re experiencing discomfort or complications, breast revision surgery may be the ideal solution.
Also known as corrective breast surgery, breast revision addresses issues from previous surgeries and helps you achieve your desired appearance.
At Impressions Chicago, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons provides the personalized care you need to ensure complete satisfaction with your results. From correcting breast implant asymmetry to addressing implant rupture or replacing your implants to change implant size, we’re here to guide you through every step.
What Is Breast Revision Surgery?
Breast revision surgery is a secondary surgical procedure that addresses aesthetic concerns or medical complications following an initial surgery. Goals might include breast implant removal, replacement, or reshaping the breast tissue.
Breast implant revision surgery is often complex due to various factors, including the presence of scar tissue from the original procedure. For optimal results, it’s important to seek treatment with a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in breast implant removal and replacement.
Why Do Patients Choose Breast Implant Revision Surgery?
From aesthetic appearance to age-related changes in the body, each patient has unique concerns regarding breast augmentation. Below are the most common reasons patients choose to undergo breast revision surgery.
Implant-Related Concerns
It’s a common misconception that breast implants are lifetime devices. In reality, they may require additional attention over time. One common concern is capsular contracture, which involves the formation of hardened scar tissue around the implant, causing discomfort and an unnatural appearance for the patient.
Another potential issue is implant rupture. A tear in saline or silicone implants may require implant removal and replacement. Lastly, shifting or rippling can occur over time, whereby implants may move or create visible ripples under the skin.
Aesthetic Dissatisfaction
Patients may also seek revision due to dissatisfaction with the initial surgery or changes in their aesthetic preferences. At some point, patients may decide they want larger or smaller implants to align with their current lifestyles or preferences.
Breast implant asymmetry can also occur if implants settle unevenly, creating an unbalanced appearance. In some cases, patients may wish to opt for more natural-looking results than what they achieved with their original breast augmentation.
Physical Changes Over Time
It’s natural for the body to change due to age, hormonal shifts, or weight fluctuations, all of which can impact the appearance of breast implants.
Patients may seek solutions for sagging caused by breast tissue changes or skin elasticity loss. A breast lift or fat transfer can help the breasts change shape and contour. Patients may also seek adjustments for fully mature breasts to attain an ideal aesthetic.
Types of Breast Revision Procedures
Impressions Chicago offers a variety of breast revision surgery options to address specific concerns and goals. Our experienced professionals will work with you to determine the best choice for your needs and put your mind at ease throughout the process.
Breast Implant Replacement
Patients who wish to replace their implants may be concerned with functionality or aesthetics. Implant replacement offers multiple options, whether replacing damaged implants, opting for a different size, or switching from saline to cohesive gel implants consisting of silicone gel.
Implant Removal
Breast implants do not have to be permanent. For patients who no longer want breast implants, implant removal may be combined with breast lifts to restore a more natural, youthful shape.
Correction of Capsular Contracture
This procedure involves removing the hardened scar tissue around implants for added comfort and an improved appearance.
Reshaping Breast Tissue
Our surgeons use advanced techniques to refine and reshape the breast tissue, enhancing symmetry and aesthetics and addressing issues caused by aging or weight changes.
What To Expect During Your Consultation
At Impressions Chicago, every breast implant revision begins with a detailed consultation. Our goal is to empower our patients with knowledge, clarify potential outcomes, and provide a detailed explanation of various surgical procedures.
During your consultation, our board-certified plastic surgeons will discuss your specific concerns and aesthetic goals and thoroughly review your medical history, including details of your previous surgery. We will also evaluate your breast implants, scar tissue, and overall breast tissue health.
From there, we will personalize a treatment plan based on your desired outcome. Whether you desire implant removal and replacement or need to address potential complications like capsular contracture, we want to ensure you’re confident in your decision.
The Breast Revision Procedure Explained
While we will customize your revision breast augmentation treatment plan based on your needs, most procedures follow these general steps.
- Precise incisions: Our surgeons place incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring, often along the lines of the original procedure or in discreet locations.
- Advanced surgical techniques: Whether replacing implants, removing scar tissue, or reshaping breast tissue, our surgeons use advanced methods to deliver natural-looking results while addressing specific concerns like breast implant asymmetry or sagging.
- General anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring your comfort.
- Personalized adjustments: Depending on your goals, the procedure may include implant removal, the transfer of fatty tissue, or the insertion of new implants.
Recovery and Aftercare for Breast Revision Surgery
Recovery from breast implant revision surgery is a gradual process, and you must take the time you need to recuperate. Here’s what you can expect.
Recovery Timeline
- First week: Patients should rest and avoid strenuous exercise and other activities immediately after a breast augmentation revision. Swelling, fluid accumulation, and discomfort are common but will gradually fade with time.
- Three weeks: By this point, most patients notice a significant improvement in swelling and mobility.
- Full recovery: Expect continued healing for several months, with scars fading and results becoming fully apparent.
Aftercare Tips
- Wear supportive garments as instructed.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least three weeks.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
At Impressions Chicago, our team is dedicated to your post-surgical care, guiding you through a smooth recovery.
FAQ About Breast Lift Surgery
Breast lift surgery may be ideal if your breasts sag or droop and you want to restore a more youthful, lifted appearance. Factors such as excess skin, loss of breast volume, and changes in breast shape due to pregnancy, aging, or weight loss make you a good candidate for the procedure.
Breast lifts typically cost between $9,000 and $13,000. The total cost depends on the surgeon’s expertise, technique used, facility and anesthesia fees, and post-operative care requirements. Those who also choose to get breast implants will typically spend more than those who get the breast lift alone.
There may be cases where the surgeon uses local anesthesia. However, most procedures require sedation under general anesthesia for optimal patient comfort.
Ideal candidates are those with sagging or drooping breasts who are in good health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations.
Many patients wonder about the breast reduction cost and whether health insurance covers the procedure. Coverage often depends on whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary to relieve discomfort caused by large breasts. Our team can help you navigate insurance claims and provide clear pricing for self-funded options.
Some discomfort and swelling are normal within the first few days of surgery. However, most patients can manage these issues with prescribed medications. Patients often report improvement within the first week.
During the breast lift operation, surgeons carefully preserve the blood supply to the nipple to ensure healthy tissue and sensation. In rare cases, complications can arise that affect blood flow, but this risk is minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Eric W. Anderson.
Most breast lift surgeries are considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance. However, partial coverage might be available if the procedure is part of a medically necessary treatment, such as after a mastectomy. Check with your healthcare provider for details.
All breast lift techniques involve incisions, which will leave scars. However, skilled surgeons like Dr. Eric W. Anderson place incisions in discreet areas such as the breast crease or around the areola to minimize visibility. Over time, these scars fade and become less noticeable.
While individual results may vary, most women can breastfeed after the procedure. Dr. Eric W. Anderson preserves the milk ducts and nerves during surgery to maintain nipple sensation and breastfeeding ability. Some women choose to wait on breast surgery until after breastfeeding is complete to ensure lasting results, but the choice is yours.
With a stable body weight and proper care, breast lift results can last many years. Aging and natural changes in breast tissue will continue to affect the breasts, but the lift itself can maintain its effects for a long time.
You can resume light activities within one to two weeks post-surgery. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks to allow proper healing. Dr. Eric W. Anderson will provide specific guidelines based on your individual recovery.
Breast lift surgery alone is not intended for reducing breast size, as its focus is on repositioning and reshaping sagging breasts. However, breast reduction surgery inherently includes a lifting component, ensuring both a reduction in breast size and a more balanced appearance.
Why Choose Impressions for Breast Revision Surgery?
At Impressions Chicago, our surgeons have extensive experience in revision surgery, addressing even the most advanced cases with skill and precision. We prioritize your comfort, goals, and education throughout the process so that you’re comfortable and confident at every step.
Additionally, we are committed to using the most advanced techniques. From correcting capsular contracture to reshaping breast tissue, our methods ensure excellent results with a generally low risk of complications.With the addition of Dr. Eric W. Anderson, a highly skilled surgeon specializing in body procedures, Impressions is uniquely equipped to handle even the most specific concerns.
Renew Your Confidence With Impressions Chicago
Whether you’re correcting breast implant rupture, addressing complications from previous surgery, or simply seeking a change, breast revision surgery at Impressions Chicago offers personalized solutions to meet your needs.
Take the first step toward renewed confidence and comfort by scheduling a consultation with our team. Let us help you achieve the natural-looking results you deserve.
Our Happy Clients
Wonderful doctor! Absolutely an amazing experience. He and his nurses were all very thorough and respectful. My results from surgery was everything I had hoped for! The healing process is going very smooth, as well! Definitely can’t wait to see the healed and finished look!