What is Breast Augmentation Revision?
Over time, the shape and size of breast implants can change, making the breasts appear different from the original result. Breast implants should also be exchanged or removed every 10 years, as they are not lifelong devices.
Breast augmentation revision surgery is performed to replace old breast implants with new breast implants. The goal is often to improve the appearance of the breasts while updating the implant. This can be achieved through changing the size, shape, or style of the implant, reshaping the breast implant pocket to reposition the implant or performing a breast lift or reduction along with the implant exchange.
Individuals may choose to have breast augmentation revision due to:
- A wish to change the size or style of their implants.
- Discomfort due to capsular contracture.
- Concern regarding implant migration or rupture.
I am over the moon with my results from Dr. Willis after a breast lift and an abdominoplasty. Dr. Willis and his team are so easy to work with. He listened to what I wanted and gave me beautiful results- better than I could have even hoped for. If you’re thinking about getting a procedure done with Dr. Willis my advice would be DO IT!
Nothing but praise for Charlottesville Plastic Surgery. Dr. Willis explained everything he needed to do clearly and his work was top-notch. When needed, he made an immediate referral for me and explained exactly what I would expect from that. Great communication, efficient office.
I have had the best experience with Dr. Willis and Leah. I have had filler, Dysport, and I've been under the knife with Dr. Willis and I've been so happy with all of my results. I actually feel like a part of their family, I can call whenever I need anything and they both make me feel like they care about me and my results.
Dr. Willis and his team are phenomenal! From their patient-centered care to their willingness to collaborate with other physicians my experience was a resounding success. I highly recommend having a conversation with them.
Who is a Candidate?
Individuals who have had a previous breast augmentation procedure and are no longer happy with their implants can often benefit from breast augmentation revision. Nonsmokers who are in good physical health and have a positive outlook for their results are often ideal candidates. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Willis today to learn more about this procedure and if it is right for you.
The Breast Augmentation Revision Procedure
The type of incision that is used to achieve breast implant revision surgery will depend on the type of procedures that will be performed. Through these incisions, breast implants and scar tissue will be removed, and a new breast implant placed.
Incision options may include an inframammary incision, a breast lift incision, or a periareolar incision.
Inframammary Incision
This incision is created horizontally along the crease under the breast.
Breast Lift Incision
This incision is also known as the anchor incision, and is created around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the inframammary fold.
Periareolar Incision
Is created partway around the areola.
*Individual result may vary from what is pictured and stated. We require a consultation and cannot guarantee results.
Recovery
Following your breast augmentation revision procedure, you may have gauze dressings or bandages placed on your incisions. Sometimes, a temporary drain may be placed to collect excess fluid that may collect. Be sure to follow Dr. Willis’ specific aftercare instructions regarding how to care for your surgical sites, how to take medications, and when to schedule a follow-up appointment.
If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation revision in Charlottesville VA, contact Charlottesville Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation appointment. Dr. Willis will speak with you regarding your health history and surgery goals to determine the best plan of action.
Breast Augmentation Revision FAQs
Can a mammogram detect a ruptured implant?
A MRI is the gold standard for detecting occult ruptures of silicone implants. A mammogram will likely not detect a ruptured implant.
Can belly fat be used for breast reconstruction?
Belly fat is often used for fat grafting to the breast after breast reconstruction. The fat grafting usually not sufficient alone, and is used in conjunction with autologous tissue (DIEP flap) or implant-based reconstruction.
Can I lay flat after breast augmentation?
You can lay flat on your back after a breast augmentation. You should not lay on your stomach or chest.
Can I take my surgical bra off for a few hours?
You can take off your surgical bra for a few hours to wash it, etc.
How long is recovery after fat transfer?
Fat transfer recovery is usually pretty minimal, but you should consult your plastic surgeon on activity limitations, etc.
How painful is breast augmentation recovery?
Breast augmentation recovery can be very easy with minimal pain and limitations.
Is natural breast augmentation safe?
What are the risks of fat transfer?
Risks of fat transfer carry all the same risks as liposuction, as you surgeon will need to harvest the fat from somewhere else on your body. Fat injections to the breast are very safe with minimal risks if performed properly.
Can you transfer fat to your breast?
Fat grafting to the breast is often used in conjunction with other breast cancer reconstruction techniques. For cosmetic purposes, fat graft is a great adjunct to implant-based breast augmentation. Fat grafting alone for cosmetic purposes has a very narrow subset of patients who would qualify.
Does fat transfer last?
Fat transfer should be a permanent solution. Keep in mind that up to 50 percent of the fat initially transferred might not survive, so your volume will come down over the immediate post-operative weeks. Of the fat that survives and incorporates its own blood supply, it will live permanently and will fluctuate naturally with your own weight gain/loss.
How do fat transfers work?
Fat transfer should be a permanent solution. Keep in mind that up to 50 percent of the fat initially transferred might not survive, so your volume will come down over the immediate post-operative weeks. Of the fat that survives and incorporates its own blood supply, it will live permanently and will fluctuate naturally with your own weight gain/loss.
When can I run after breast augmentation?
You should refrain from running for 4-6 weeks after a breast augmentation depending on your surgeons preference.
