Breast Augmentation Revision

Revision breast surgery, also known as breast implant revision or breast implant replacement, is a surgical procedure performed to modify or correct issues that may arise after primary breast augmentation surgery. It involves the removal, replacement, or adjustment of breast implants to address aesthetic concerns, implant-related complications, or changes in personal preference. It can also include changes to the size and shape of the native breast tissue as well to improve the aesthetic result. Revisions may be performed many years after primary breast surgery, or as soon as a year after to correct issues that arise.

Breast Augmentation Revision
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Breast Augmentation Revision
 Before & After Photos

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Breast Augmentation Revision Case #1

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Breast implant exchange. Had breast augmentation with another doctor, silicone implants: 350cc. Wanted more projection and top fullness. Exchanged to silicone implants: 605SRF x2

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Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.

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Reasons for Revision Breast Surgery

There are several reasons why a person may consider revision breast surgery:

• Breast implant rippling: The appearance of visible implant edges, or wrinkling, beneath the skin.
• Implant malposition: Sometimes, implants can shift from their original position, causing asymmetry or an unnatural appearance. Sometimes, the muscle can hold one or both implants in a very high position on the chest.
• Bottoming out: A form of breast implant displacement, this is characterized by the implant dropping too low on the chest wall due to a lack of implant support from the patient’s own tissue.
• Implant animation deformity: A condition where the breast implant moves when the chest muscles are engaged, causing an unappealing distortion.
• Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue surrounding the breast implant becomes thick and tight, causing the breasts to feel firm or appear misshapen.
• Implant rupture or leakage: Implants can rupture or leak over time, leading to changes in breast shape and size, or discomfort.
• Desire for size or shape change: Some individuals may decide to change the size, shape, or type of their implants for aesthetic reasons.
• Changes due to aging or weight loss: Over time, natural changes in the breasts or significant weight loss may affect the appearance of breast tissue itself, which can make the overall appearance less desirable.

Your Revision Breast Surgery Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Amalfi will review your health history and listen to you describe your primary concerns. Additionally, your breasts will be carefully examined to assess your personal characteristics and the opportunities for aesthetic and functional improvement. The consultation is an important opportunity to discuss your short and long-term cosmetic goals and ask questions about your treatment options. Dr. Amalfi will explain the procedure, what you can expect during recovery, and the involved risks of revision surgery.

Dr. Amalfi will then create a personalized treatment plan designed around your needs and lifestyle, based on the information gathered at the consultation. Careful implant selection is determined in cooperation with your surgeon to ensure the appropriate size and type is chosen.

Ashley N. Amalfi, M.D.

Specializes in Breast & Body Procedures

Recognizing the unique goals and desires of each of her patients, Dr. Amalfi uses her attention to detail and experience to create personalized surgical outcomes for her patients. A board-certified plastic surgeon, she specializes in cosmetic breast and body procedures.

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Your Revision Breast Procedure

No two revision breast surgeries are the same. The specific approach for revision breast surgery depends on the individual’s unique circumstances and desired outcomes. Dr. Amalfi makes incisions in strategic locations, often in the same areas as the original breast augmentation surgery, to access the breast implants. The old implants are removed, and adjustments are made to improve the position of the breast implant. Any scar tissue or implant malposition is addressed, and new implants placed if desired.

Various tools and techniques are used to ensure a natural, consistent result. These may include:

• GalaFLEX Surgical Scaffold: GalaFLEX is a scaffold, or “internal bra,” designed to support and help reinforce weak tissues surrounding the implant. It is made of absorbable suture material, the same that Dr. Amalfi uses for internal stitches to maintain support. Just like absorbable suture material, the GalaFLEX will slowly dissolve over time while encouraging the production of your own improved collagen formation. This allows for long term support for the breast implant and will help maintain its position over time.
• Plane Change: This involves moving the implant from its current position to a new position. The implant can be moved from under the muscle to over the muscle, or vice versa. Changing the implant position can help to control its position and improve rippling, animation deformity, and asymmetry.
• Fat Grafting: Patients with or without an implant can benefit from fat grafting. With an implant in place, fat can be used to camouflage rippling, improve the appearance of cleavage, or augment the upper pole of the breasts. When patients have their implants removed and do not desire them to be replaced, fat transfer may be used with or without a breast lift to improve the contour and volume of the native breast. In any of these procedures, the fat is removed from a stubborn area via liposuction which gives the added benefit of body contouring in a desired location for the patient, as well as the improvement of the breast.

Recovery After Revision Breast Surgery

Recovery after revision breast surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure. It is essential to follow the pre- and post-operative instructions given to you prior to surgery, including wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.

Revision Breast Surgery Results

The final results of revision breast surgery may take several weeks or months to fully appreciate as the breasts heal and settle into their new shape. Patients often experience improved symmetry, enhanced breast appearance, and increased self-confidence.

Ideal Candidates for Revision Breast Surgery

The ideal candidate is someone who:

• Is in overall good health
• Is experiencing an undesirable outcome with their current implants or who wants to revise their previous implants
• Has realistic goals and expectations about the results

The first step in deciding if you are a good candidate is to meet with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Amalfi for a private, personal consultation appointment to discuss your specific situation and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still breastfeed after revision breast implant surgery?

Yes, it is safe to breastfeed after revision breast implant surgery and complications or limitations due to the implant are rare.

I have had more than one breast surgery. Why is this different?

Patients travel to see Dr. Amalfi for her specific expertise in these cases. She has extensive experience in breast reconstruction revision surgery and uses her specific skills and techniques to help her aesthetic patients achieve their desired results.

Doctors have told me the result I have is good enough, or cannot be fixed. Should I still come in for a consultation?

Absolutely! It is always advised to have a breast consultation so Dr. Amalfi can take a closer look at your anatomy and understand your goals. Many of her patients have been told there is nothing to be done to improve their results and have found Dr. Amalfi to help achieve their goals.

Can I just have my implants removed?

Many patients simply want their implants removed. Depending on the type of implant, sometimes they can be removed in the office. Other patients may desire a breast lift to improve their outcomes after explantation, and that may be done in the same surgical procedure or at a later date in the operating room.