Breast Revision
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular surgeries in America where nearly 300,000 procedures are performed each year. For a variety of reasons, many women choose to have breast revision surgery, which can enhance the appearance, feel, and function of implants that were installed by a previous surgery.
What is Breast Revision?
Breast revision surgery usually involves replacing implants from a former breast augmentation surgery. The old implants are removed and new ones are put in place. Since the pocket for the implant already exists, breast revision surgery results in less downtime than breast augmentation. In some cases, however, your surgeon may be able to correct problems with breast implants or improve a breast augmentation without the need to replace the implants.
Reasons for Breast Revision
Breast implants are safe medical devices that usually last well over a decade. However, most women will seek to replace their implants within 10-15 years of the operation. Common reasons for breast revision include:
- Increasing or decreasing the cup size
- Switching from saline to silicone or vice versa
- Implant leakage
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue causes the implant to feel hard)
- Breast implants have shifted in position
- Breast tissue has changed in shape or volume
What Happens During Surgery?
There are a variety of possible techniques involved in breast revision surgery, depending on the type of revisions that are required. After the patient has been anesthetized, Dr. Lee B. Daniel performs strategic incisions to minimize the appearance of scars. When repairing an implant deflation, he is often able to remove the scar tissue around the implant, which improves the look and feel of the breast. He may upgrade or downgrade the size of breast implants.
Capsular contracture, which occurs when the scar tissue begins to tighten around the implant, can be corrected by removing the entire capsule or cutting the capsule to open it. In the event of a poorly positioned implant, Dr. Daniel may use internal sutures or another procedure, such as a breast lift, to help push the implant into its correct position.
After Breast Revision Surgery
Patients are typically able to walk around unaided on the day of surgery, and most people are able to return to work within 7-10 days. Dressings are removed after a few days, but patients often need to wear a support bra for a few weeks in order to prevent undue strain on the tissue. You should avoid getting the incision site wet. Initial bruising, swelling, and discomfort will fade over time.
Learn More About Breast Revision Surgery
If you're considering breast revision surgery in Eugene, Oregon, send us an email or call us at 541-687-8900. Dr. Lee B. Daniel can answer questions about breast revision surgery and provide the best care possible. We regularly consult with patients from nearby cities such as Springfield, Corvallis, and Portland.
