Choosing to have breast augmentation surgery is a momentous decision, one that can reshape your breasts as well as improve your self-confidence. While most patients are satisfied with their breast implant results for many years, they may consider breast augmentation revision as time passes.
If you’re considering this procedure, you likely have many questions about it. Let’s explore exactly what this surgery accomplishes, including the reasons some women choose to have it, what recovery is like, and what results you can expect.
Why Get Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery?
The reasons for having breast augmentation revision surgery are personal and varied. In general, women decide to have this procedure to alter the size or shape of their breasts or to correct specific issues following a breast augmentation. Other common reasons women choose to get a breast augmentation revision include:
- Implants that have migrated or ruptured
- Desire to change the previous implant (silicone versus saline)
- Pain from excessive scar tissue around the implants, referred to as capsular contracture
- Weight gain or weight loss impacting breast appearance
What Happens During Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery?
Each breast augmentation revision surgery varies based on the patient’s needs and goals. During the procedure, Dr. Daryl Hoffman typically uses the same incisions from the original surgery to manipulate breast tissue, remove old implants, and insert new implants. If treating capsular contracture, Dr. Hoffman will likely perform a capsulectomy to remove the thick, hardened tissue around the existing implant before replacing the breast implants. The procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the patient’s needs and whether a breast lift is also recommended.
Revision breast augmentation can be performed within at least 6 months following your original procedure or even years after the initial surgery. Many women opt for this surgery 10 to 15 years after their initial augmentation to update their implants or change their size or shape. Breast augmentation revision costs can range from $4,000 to $18,000 (national average) depending on the complexity of the procedure, the type of implants selected, and your surgeon’s location and experience level.
Your Recovery and Results
Breast augmentation revision recovery generally takes 1 to 2 weeks. Planning for your recovery and closely following your post-op protocol smooths your recovery experience. Here’s what to expect:
- Allow 2 or 3 days for rest; most people resume non-strenuous activities and work within a week or so.
- Expect initial bruising and swelling to subside gradually.
- Avoid heavy lifting and refrain from raising your arms above your head.
- Take pain meds and wear a compression bra to minimize swelling and enhance comfort during healing.
- You should see initial results within 3 months, but achieving final results may take up to a year.
We suggest you refer to this related blog post about breast surgery recovery. These tips will also help ensure that you have a successful breast augmentation revision procedure:
- During your consultation, try to provide us with as many details as possible about your initial surgery.
- Eat a well-balanced diet, stay hydrated, and maintain good overall health before and following your procedure.
- Try to maintain your current weight.
- We may recommend pairing your revision surgery with a breast lift for optimal results.
- Maintain realistic expectations—understand that aging and the weight of your implants will eventually impact breast appearance.
If you’re uncomfortable with the results of a previous breast augmentation or experiencing complications from your implants, it’s time to explore the possibilities of breast augmentation revision. We invite you to request a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Daryl Hoffman or call our Palo Alto office at (650) 325-1118.
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