A breast revision surgery addresses a variety of concerns, ranging from modifying implant characteristics to correcting complications from earlier breast enhancement surgeries. The procedure is tailored to adapt to changes in the patient’s body, ensuring that the final outcome aligns seamlessly with their evolving aesthetic goals.

This procedure addresses patient needs ranging from adjusting implant attributes to rectifying prior surgical complications, ensuring results that harmonize with each patient’s unique physique and aesthetic goals.

Overview

Breast implant revision surgery entails replacing existing breast implant devices, or otherwise repairing the breast pocket within which they were placed. Some patients seek breast procedures for aesthetic reasons, such as a desire for larger or smaller implants or to address the effects of aging on the breasts.

In other cases, patients may have developed complications from previous breast surgery procedures, such as capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant), poor implant placement, or ruptured implants.

Regardless of the indications, the first step is always a thorough initial consultation with Dr. Kachniarz, at which you will discuss your goals, expected outcomes, and potential risks of any procedure.

You will formulate a custom operative plan with Dr. Kachniarz and discuss any preoperative testing needed prior to your procedure. Depending on your specific situation, the procedure itself often entails breast implant removal or replacement of existing implants, as well as adjusting the surrounding implant pocket and breast tissue.

Breast revision procedures are truly unique in their versatility; no two procedures are the same, as Dr. Kachniarz takes into account:

prior surgical procedure history
as well as individual aesthetic goals.

Although in many cases it is used as a corrective measure to address implant complications from a prior or original implant surgery, it may also be used for more elective reasons, such as changing to small or large implants or making corrections due to aging and excessive sagging of the breast.

Most often, procedures do involve general anesthesia, which is why you should set aside extra time for the recovery period postoperatively. You will have regular follow up with your experienced plastic surgeon to monitor your healing progress.

When considering this plastic surgery, there are many factors at play – from determining the specific aesthetic goals of the procedure, to selecting the ideal implant size and shape to meet those goals.

But ultimately, this breast enhancement surgery can provide excellent results while helping you look and feel more confident about your body once again.

What Is Breast Revision Surgery?

A breast revision surgery is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance and symmetry of your breasts following previous breast procedures like breast reduction or initial breast augmentation. It often involves:

replacing or removing existing implant devices, as well as
addressing the shape of the surrounding breast tissue.

This type of surgery is often done to correct any deformities caused by prior surgeries, for any type of procedure whether its breast reduction, cosmetic breast augmentation surgery or treatments for breast cancer.

During this procedure, the surgeon will remove old implants if necessary, then insert new ones depending on your individual aesthetic goals. In many cases, patients may also opt for fat transfer techniques to address any asymmetries or visibility of implant edges, and other changes that may have become more pronounced with time.

A breast lift may also be performed during the revision breast surgery to improve positioning and appearance when needed.

A breast revision procedure can improve symmetry and restore volume lost from age-related changes, weight gain/ loss, or pregnancies. For many patients, it helps restore a balanced feminine physique after original surgery.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate?

Revision breast surgery can be an excellent option for individuals who have had previous breast augmentation, and are unsatisfied with the results from their initial procedure. A revision procedure may be able to help improve your overall satisfaction with the appearance of your breasts if you’re unhappy with the:

size
shape or
symmetry of your implants.

If there is any malpositioning of your breasts due to capsular contracture, or other medical issues such as implant rippling or wrinkling in the skin overlying the implants – which can occur due to saline implant deflation – then these problems can also be addressed through a revision procedure.

If you’re looking to replace an old set of implants that were placed several years ago but no longer feel comfortable and secure within your body, it might also make sense for you to consider undergoing surgery with an experienced plastic surgeon.

Some women may opt for different types of implants altogether during their revisions – switching from saline-filled devices to silicone gel models or vice versa, depending on their desired outcome.

Ultimately, whether this plastic surgery is right for you depends largely on what goals you hope to achieve; your initial consultation with Dr. Kachniarz will help bring clarity into what procedures would best suit your individual needs and realistic expectations when considering this type of cosmetic surgery.

Benefits of Breast Revision Surgery

One benefit of breast revision is that it allows individuals to customize the appearance of their breasts in order to achieve a desired outcome. This means they can change the size, shape, and/or placement of their implants in order to create a more natural-looking result.

This type of surgery can often limit incisions to previous scars, and help bring back patients’ confidence with their bodies.

Another benefit is that it can improve overall health and wellbeing by reducing any discomfort caused by existing implants or related conditions such as capsular contracture.

In addition to providing relief from physical pain and discomfort, improved symmetry between both breasts may also lead to increased self-confidence due to better aesthetic results. There is generally less downtime than a full breast augmentation, which makes the recovery period easier for most people.

Benefits of Breast Revision Surgery in miami

Types of Revision Surgery Available

The most common type of procedure is replacement of the original implants with new ones that better suit your body type and desired aesthetic outcome. This can involve changing the size or shape of your current implants, as well as replacing them with larger or smaller sizes if needed. Other options include

exchanging saline-filled implants for silicone gel-filled ones
adding fat grafting for increased volume and symmetry correction; and
performing additional surgeries such as a breast lift in order to improve positioning and appearance.

Breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Some common reasons why women seek revision breast surgery or implant removal are:

saline-filled implants become deflated
silicone implant ruptures
implants become malpositioned over time.

In such cases, the ruptured implant needs to be replaced or removed altogether. Situations in which the implant appears to move over time, may be indicative of poor tissue support around the implant.

We can often use internal scaffold reinforcement (for example the GalaFlex “internal bra”) to reinforce the existing tissues around the implant and reduce the risk of repeat implant displacement.

Potential Deformities

Some other potential deformities following breast augmentation include:

“Double-bubble” deformity; and
“Uni-boob” symmastia
Visible implant edge or rippling.
Risk of capsular contracture

1. Double-Bubble

Double-bubble may appear as a crease over the lower half of the breast, and may occur either from malposition of the implant or improper release of the original breast fold during the initial surgery.

Understanding the underlying cause is critical in planning revision reconstructive surgeries, which often involves either repositioning and reinforcing the implant or releasing connecting tissues that are causing the double-bubble deformity.

2. Symmastia (Or Uni-Boob)

Symmastia (or uni-boob) occurs when implants migrate toward the midline, creating an appearance of one breast. This can occur over time as the implant becomes displaced, or immediately following breast augmentation surgery if the tissues are released too aggressively along the midline.

The risk of “uni-boob” symmastia tends to be higher with implant placed above the muscle, as the pectoralis muscle attachments along the sternum otherwise provide a barrier for the implants.

Regardless, revision surgery often involves repositioning the implants, repairing the pocket to fit snuggly around the implants in a more appropriate position, and often reinforcing the pocket with an internal surgical bra, such as the GalaFlex “internal bra”.

3. Visible Implant Edge or Rippling

Visible implant edge or rippling is another common reason for seeking breast revision among Miami plastic surgeons. This tends to be more common with saline or less-cohesive silicone implants, and implants placed above the muscle. It is also more of a risk among thinner patients, with less tissue masking the implants.

The issue may also become more pronounced over time, as tissues naturally thin over the implant with aging. Depending on the cause, revision breast surgery may entail either a fat transfer procedure to mask the implant if possible, or placing the implant under the muscle.

Replacing the existing implant with a more cohesive “Gummy Bear” implant can also reduce the risk of implant rippling.

4. The Risk of Capsular Contracture

The risk of capsular contractures does tend to be higher with smooth implants and placement above the muscle. In cases of painful hardening of scar tissue around the implant, the implant may need to be removed and placed within a fresh new implant pocket during the revision procedure.

Even in the absence of capsular contractures, there is a risk that implants become malpositioned over time. They may push through their initial pocket and move out to the sides or up on the chest. Occasionally they may push down under the existing inframammary fold (IMF) and “bottom-out”.

In all of these cases, the implant is typically removed and the pocket is repaired during revision breast surgery to fit the implant snuggly in the more appropriate position.

Finally, some women may choose to have their old implants removed completely without replacement during the revision; this could be done for medical reasons or simply because they no longer want implants at all after their previous surgery.

Regardless of the reason, Dr. Kachniarz will discuss your options and help guide you throughout the process.

Risks and Complications

Revision breast surgery is a complex procedure and carries risks, similar to those associated with any other major surgery. Common issues that can arise include:

infection
pain
bleeding
fluid accumulation around the implant (seroma)
scarring or hardening of tissue near the implant
changes in sensation around the nipples or breasts, and
possible need for additional breast revision due to asymmetry

Dr. Kachniarz will discuss risks and benefits of any procedure in detail during your consultation visit, so you can make an informed decision with realistic expectations about the recovery period and operation.

Pre-Surgery Planning and Preparation

Prior to undergoing breast surgery, patients should discuss the procedure in detail with Dr. Kachniarz and make sure that all of their questions are answered. This will help ensure that goals expectations are realistic, and your whole team is on the same page.

A thorough pre-operative assessment/clearance will also be requested from your primary care doctor. Dr. Kachniarz will explain exactly what will take place during the surgery so that there are no surprises on the day of the procedure.

We will discuss any lifestyle changes or activities that need to be avoided prior to and after the operation; these can include:

avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol,
eating healthy foods and
getting enough rest.

It is also beneficial for patients to get into an exercise routine leading up to the surgery if possible – not only does this improve overall health, it can also help speed up recovery times post-surgery too.

Our goal is to make sure you are comfortable communicating with your board certified plastic surgeon throughout all stages of treatment: from planning and preparation through recovery follow-up visits afterwards.

Postoperative Recovery Process

The recovery process after breast revision surgery requires careful planning and consideration in order to make sure that you get the time and rest needed. The amount of time needed for complete healing typically takes several weeks before the final results are achieved.

Immediately following the procedure, patients may experience some swelling and bruising, which will eventually subside as they heal. Pain medication might be prescribed if necessary, though this should only be used sparingly due to its potential side effects.

Bandages often stay in place for 2 days after surgery, at which point they should be replaced. It’s important to follow all instructions given regarding proper wound care, such as cleaning the incision site during this time period so that infection does not set in and disrupt the healing process further down the line.

In terms of physical activity post-surgery, it’s best for patients to avoid strenuous exercise for at least two weeks afterwards – though light walking is encouraged.

Patients should also take extra care when lifting heavy objects or engaging in any type of strenuous movement; doing so could cause additional strain on an already sensitive area and lead to delayed healing times or other complications down the road if precautions are not taken beforehand.

Allowing adequate rest periods throughout each day can help reduce stress on both mind and body, while allowing wounds more time to properly heal up over time as well. Residual swelling may persist for several months as the final contouring results appear.

Finding a Qualified Surgeon

Finding a qualified board certified plastic surgeon is an important step in the process for successful breast reconstruction. A successful procedure requires an experienced and knowledgeable doctor who can accurately assess the patient’s condition, determine the best course of action, and execute it with precision.

With this in mind, potential patients should take their time researching different surgeons to make sure they are comfortable with their qualifications.

Patients should be aware that there are several different surgical approaches and techniques used for revisions, so it is important to select someone who has ample experience with all of them and can customize a detailed surgical plan.

At Dr. K Miami Plastic Surgery, you can rest assured that your plastic surgeon has world-class surgical training and experience to guide you throughout this process. We offer free consultation to discuss your specific needs and goals.

How Much Does a Breast Revision Cost in Miami?

The cost of breast revision surgery in Miami costs $7,000 – $15,000, but this can vary depending on the surgical plan. You may schedule a free consultation to obtain an individualized surgical quote.

Surgical pricing is all-inclusive; it includes the surgeon fees, facility and anesthesia fees, implants, sizers, Keller funnel, a Marena postsurgical garment, and a supplemental CosmetAssure insurance policy. We never charge any hidden fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the revision Surgery Take?

The length of revision breast surgery varies greatly depending on the complexity of your surgical procedure. A simple implant replacement may take an hour, while more complex breast revision like adjusting the implant pocket might take a couple of hours.

Following the breast revision procedure, patients recover from anesthesia in the postoperative care unit and are typically discharged home the same day.

Can You Perform Breast Revision Using Your Own Fat?

Yes, fat transfer breast revision is a frequently utilized option among patients. It is commonly used to reduce rippling of implant or to mask the edges of implants. Most frequently, the abdomen, waist, and flanks are liposculpted to obtain fat tissue for the transfer.

To optimize fat survival, the REVOLVE system is used to purify the fat prior to transfer. Dr. Kachniarz will help you decide whether this is the right option for you during your complementary consultation.

Is Breast Revision Surgery Painful?

The intensity of pain and length of the recovery period following breast revision surgeries can vary greatly depending on the specifics of your surgical procedure. Often a simple replacement of existing breast implants may involve a relatively quick recovery with minimal discomfort.

Any procedure that involves extensive work reinforcing the implant pockets, adjusting the muscle, or combining with a breast lift will likely involve a longer and more painful recovery period. Full healing of the incision area may take up to six weeks, and the procedure areas will continue to soften and scars will fade for up to a year.

What Is Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture occurs when a layer of scar tissue forms, encapsulating the breast implant. With more advanced degrees of capsular contractures, the breast may feel hardened, appear distorted, or even feel painful.

Although studies are ongoing regarding the exact causes, it appears that low level bacterial contamination may contribute to this condition in many cases.

To minimize this risk during breast augmentation or revisions, Dr. Kachniarz utilizes the latest aseptic techniques, including Keller funnels, single-use sizers, a no-touch technique, and antibiotic irrigation. In cases of capsular contracture, a revision procedure may be required to remove the hardened scar tissue and place the implant into a fresh pocket position.

How Often Do I Have To Get My Breast Implants Replaced?

Breast implants are often quoted to have a 10-15 year lifespan on average. However, this does not necessarily mean that you are required to replace your implants after that timeframe.

The main indications to consider replacing breast implant devices include:

Visible defects like leakage or shell rupture (which is readily visible with saline implants)

Shifting of implant position or shape over time

Personal preference to change implant size/type

Ultimately, the need to replace your implants will be discussed during consultation with Dr. Kachniarz.

References

[1] National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8186996/

[2] FDA. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants

[3] American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-revision/procedure

[4] WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-breast-reduction-surgery

Breast Revision Miami