What is Breast Implant Revision?
You already had breast implant surgery, but it’s been a few years and you’re not completely satisfied with the way they look anymore. Perhaps your breasts seem lopsided, too big or too small. Is there anything you can do now? Dr. Michael Streitmann is an expert in breast implant revision, but there are some things you should know before considering this surgery.
What Is a Revision?
A breast implant revision is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a surgical procedure that revises a previous surgical procedure you had done for your breasts. While most breast implant surgeries are successful, they don’t last forever, and some patients decide to have them revised at a later date, which could even be up to ten years later.
Implant revisions are considered a type of corrective surgery. They sometimes resolve complications or other issues from the original surgery, and sometimes they’re just because the patient wants a change. Revisions are meant to decrease or increase the size, change the shape, adjust the placement, and a variety of other purposes.
Who Should Seek a Revision?
Not everyone who has previously had breast implants should seek a revision, though there are some solid reasons someone might choose to do it. The following are some reasons you may be a good candidate.
- The Implants Have Bottomed Out – Bottoming out describes original implants that have shifted from the original place and appear to have descended too low. Dr. Streitmann can reposition them higher and secure them so bottoming out won’t be an issue again.
- The Implants Have Ruptured – A ruptured implant can be a health concern, so it’s important you speak with the surgeon immediately after discovering this has taken place. Sometimes it’s a small leak or a slow deflation, and that can be just as serious. If you have been monitoring your breast implants, you’ll probably know when a revision is necessary due to rupture or deflation.
- New Size Request – Sometimes after living with the original breast implants for a while, a patient decides to go with a different size. A size change could be an increase in size or a decrease in size, depending on the preference of the patient. If a decrease is requested, the surgeon will take care to avoid loose skin or sagging.
- Implants Are Asymmetrical – This isn’t something that happens often, but occasionally the original breast implants will appear asymmetrical. This can happen directly after the implant surgery but will typically correct itself. If it doesn’t resolve after a few weeks, a revision might be necessary to correct it.
- Breasts Appear to Be Rippled – A rippling effect happens when patients don’t have much natural breast tissue to begin with. After the original implants are placed, they can be seen underneath the skin’s surface. A patient experiencing rippling could undergo a revision to reduce folds and wrinkles in the implant.
- Scar Heals Incorrectly – In some cases, the scar that forms after a breast implant doesn’t heal correctly. This is called capsular contracture and presents as scar tissue that has hardened. Unfortunately, this can cause pain and discomfort to the patient due to pressure that is put on the implant. A revision can remove that capsule and replace the implant that was affected by the pressure.
- The Breast Pockets Merge Together – Symmastia is a condition in which the implants shift together inside the chest, making it appear as though the patient has one large breast instead of two. It’s an issue that can be difficult to correct, but it is possible.
What Should a Potential Candidate Understand?
There are some things a potential candidate for breast implant revision should understand. The following are a few items to consider:
- A revision could be more difficult than the original implant surgery, requiring a professional with experience, like Dr. Streitmann.
- Though you can choose to have a revision done for cosmetic reasons, many insurers don’t cover the costs for this type of elective surgery. Dr. Streitmann often offers specials and financing options to figure out a way you can afford to look your best.
- Breast implant revisions are typically done under general anesthesia. The procedure itself could last anywhere from one to three hours, supposing everything goes as planned.
- Just like any surgery, there are risks involved with a breast implant revision. Dr. Streitmann helps patients understand what those risks are, relieving some of the stress that comes with surgery.
- You may experience soreness and tenderness as the area heals after your revision surgery. This is normal, as is a small amount of swelling. If it lasts longer than six weeks, you should contact your surgeon.
Learning More and Scheduling Your Revision
There are a lot of individuals who are not satisfied with the way their breasts look for one reason or another. Even if they have had implant surgery previously, they could be dissatisfied months or years later. Breast implant revision surgery is a way to gain that confidence back. Contact the offices of Dr. Michael J. Streitmann today at 713-667-4600 to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
Image Credit: Getty/ nensuria