Breast implants typically need to be replaced every 10-20 years. However, there are several reasons why patients may want or need to remove them sooner. Maybe you are unhappy with how the implants look, or you suffered complications during the procedure. Whatever the reason, breast implant revision surgery can help.
Discover what implant revision surgery is and what it involves in the brief guide below…
What is breast implant revision surgery?
Breast revision surgery typically aims to remove the implants. The procedure takes around two hours to complete, and the incision will be made in the same place as the original one. This helps to avoid any new scarring.
You will be placed under general anaesthetic, before the implants are removed and the wound is stitched up. However, in most cases the breasts will need to be reshaped in another surgery to ensure best results.
A breast lift may be carried out alongside the surgery, and fat transfer can be used to naturally alter the shape of the breasts.
Why might I need revision surgery?
Women choose to have breast revision surgery for a number of reasons including:
- They aren’t happy with the results of their breast augmentation
- The implants are causing discomfort or pain
- The implant has ruptured
- There has been a change in the shape of the implant
It isn’t always possible to predict how breast augmentation will look. In some cases, the final result may be different to what the patient has anticipated. A revision surgery can help to address any issues that occurred during the first procedure.
If the breast implants are uncomfortable or painful, it could be a sign of damaged lymph nodes, capsular contracture, or developing seroma. Experiencing persistent pain after breast augmentation isn’t natural and it should be addressed with the surgeon.
Ruptures are another rare complication. The implant may have burst, causing it to leak out into surrounding areas. This can be life threatening in some cases, so if a rupture is suspected it should be treated as quickly as possible.
These are just a small number of the reasons you might choose to have breast revision surgery.
Are there any risks and complications?
Breast revision surgery presents very few risks to the patient. However, some complications to be aware of include:
- Pain and swelling
- Infections
- Your breasts are hot to the touch
- Leaking wounds
Your surgeon will go over the potential risks and complications before surgery. While the risks are small, you do need to take them into account when deciding if the procedure is right for you.
To learn more about breast revision surgery and whether it could be right for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock.
