Published by Dr. Brandon Richland, MD
Breast implant revision surgery is often necessary for those experiencing issues such as implant rupture, rippling, or capsular contracture. Photos showing breast revision before and after provide a clear view of the improvements this surgery can bring. Many patients consider breast revision surgery to achieve better symmetry and an overall enhanced appearance.
Improving appearance, a revision surgery often includes updating the implant material. This might involve a concurrent breast lift or reduction, reshaping the implant pocket, or correcting implant placement. These changes help ensure a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable result for the patient.
Breast revision surgery addresses changes or complications from a previous breast surgery. It often involves a board-certified plastic surgeon who uses advanced techniques to achieve the desired outcome.
Patients opt for breast revision surgery for several reasons. Common reasons include dissatisfaction with the original surgery, such as changes in breast size, shape, or positioning. Complications like implant leakage, rupture, or capsular contracture (hardening around the implant) may also prompt revision.
Some may choose revision for aesthetic improvement, seeking to change their implants to a different size or material. Personal choices, like lifestyle changes or aging, can also influence the decision to undergo revision surgery.
Different techniques can be used to correct issues from previous breast surgeries. These methods range from removing scar tissue to lifting the breast and adding volume with fat grafting.
Capsulectomy and capsulotomy are techniques used to address issues with scar tissue, known as a capsule, that can form around breast implants.
In a capsulectomy, the surgeon removes the entire scar capsule surrounding the implant. This method is often recommended if the scar tissue is thick and causing discomfort.
Capsulotomy, on the other hand, involves making small cuts in the scar tissue to release tightness without completely removing it.
Incisions are made carefully to minimize additional scarring. Both procedures can help improve the shape and feel of the breast, resolving problems like implant hardening and pain.
Mastopexy, also known as a breast lift, involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to elevate and reshape the breast. This technique is particularly useful if there’s sagging after the initial surgery.
Fat grafting is the process of taking fat from one part of the body and injecting it into the breast. This process adds volume and can smooth out irregularities. Combining mastopexy with fat grafting can address both the need for a lift and the desire for a fuller appearance.
Fat grafting also helps in achieving a more natural look and feel, giving patients more confidence in their well-being.
Breast revision surgery requires careful recovery processes such as managing medication, dealing with swelling and bruising, and gradually resuming physical activities. Breast revision recovery time can vary, but knowing what to expect helps in planning.
Right after breast revision surgery, patients can expect some swelling and bruising. This is normal and usually clears up within a few weeks. To manage pain and discomfort, doctors often recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, though stronger pain medications may be prescribed if necessary.
Your surgeon will place tape over the stitches. It’s important to keep these covered and dry to prevent infection. Wearing a supportive bra can also aid in reducing swelling and giving extra support during the initial healing phase.
Patients are usually advised to rest and avoid any strenuous activities. Most people can return to work within seven to ten days, depending on the job’s physical demands. Consistently following the surgeon’s aftercare instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.
Long-term recovery involves gradual reintroduction of physical activities. Stitches usually dissolve on their own, but your surgeon will provide specific instructions on caring for the incision site.
After initial healing, gentle activities can resume. However, excessive physical activity should be minimized for the first few weeks to allow the body to heal properly. It’s essential to be extremely gentle with the breasts during this period.
Regular physical activities and exercise can often be resumed in about 4-6 weeks, but always follow your surgeon’s advice. Recovery periods can vary, so personal experiences may differ. Weight lifting or any high-impact exercises should be avoided until you get a green light from your surgeon.
Breast revision before and after photos are important for setting realistic expectations. They help patients see the possible outcomes of a secondary procedure and understand what can be achieved. These photos can show improvements after surgery, such as better symmetry or a more natural look.
Many Plastic surgeons share these photos to demonstrate their skills. These images allow potential patients to see real results and connect with doctors who can help.
Individuals considering breast revision often look at these photos to understand the changes they might see. The photos typically show improvements in breast shape and size. They also highlight the surgeon’s ability to correct issues from a previous breast augmentation.
Patients often see improved breast shape, size, and symmetry. The specific results vary based on the initial problem and the surgical technique used. Photos of breast implant revision before and after can help set realistic expectations.
Recovery typically involves 2-3 days of downtime. Full recovery can take a few weeks. During this time, patients may experience some swelling and bruising, which gradually subside. Surgeons usually advise avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks post-surgery.
Patients typically experience some discomfort and tightness in the chest area following surgery. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications and tends to decrease significantly within a few days. Most people return to light activities within a week.
Breast implant revision surgery is a significant procedure that addresses complications or dissatisfaction arising from an initial breast augmentation surgery. Women seeking this surgery often do so to replace old breast implants, correct issues such as implant deflation, or achieve a more aesthetically pleasing result.
The revisionary surgery involves making new surgical incisions, and in some cases, breast implant exchange may be necessary. It’s crucial to discuss realistic expectations with your plastic surgeon to understand the final results and optimal outcomes.
The recovery period for breast implant revision surgery varies but generally involves several weeks of healing time. During this period, patients may need to wear a support bra to aid in recovery and ensure the implants settle properly, eventually feeling softer and more natural within the woman’s body. As with any cosmetic surgery, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and candidates should be in good health and free from conditions that could complicate healing.
A photo gallery of before and after images can provide a visual reference of the potential results, helping patients set realistic expectations. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to avoid complications from excessive force or undue strain on the surgical area. Ultimately, the goal of breast implant revision surgery is to achieve a satisfactory and improved aesthetic outcome, allowing women to feel more confident and comfortable with their bodies.
Please note that this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Before making any changes to your treatments, please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the appropriateness and safety of such changes.
Are you located in one of these Orange County (OC) / Southern California cities?
Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Coto de Caza, Cypress, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine, La Habra, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Ladera Ranch, Lake Forest, Los Alamitos, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Orange, Placentia, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, or Yorba Linda?
Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brandon Richland, MD and our Cosmetic Aesthetics Team are ready to help you look and feel your absolute best.
Elevate your confidence and self esteem levels to unfathomable new heights!
Schedule your in-person consultation in our modern and luxurious offices in either Fountain Valley, CA (Main HQ) or our Newport Beach, CA office.
Do you live outside of Southern California or short on time? For your convenience, Virtual Consultations are also available.
Our warm and engaging Team of carefully selected Aesthetics Professionals will make you feel calm, cool, collected, and right at home throughout your entire consultation and surgery process.
Schedule Your Aesthetics Consultation here, or call us directly at 949-867-4496 today.
Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is a respected Board Certified Licensed Plastic Surgeon in Orange County / Southern California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.
To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.
Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Contact Dr. Richland today by visiting RichlandMD.com, scheduling a cosmetic consultation, or by calling 949-867-4496 directly.