What Is a Breast Augmentation Revision?
A breast augmentation revision is a complex surgery performed to correct problems that have occurred after breast implant surgery. These issues can include health concerns and overall patient dissatisfaction. Here are the most common reasons Dr. Armijo sees patients for a breast augmentation revision.
Capsular Contracture
A capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around breast implants, causing the breasts to feel abnormally hard. It can cause some discomfort as well. This complication is one of the most common reasons women seek a breast augmentation revision.
Dr. Armijo has treated many capsular contracture cases at his Dallas practice. He knows what causes it and what is necessary to correct it so that his patients can go on and enjoy the results of their augmentation for years to come.
Implant Malposition
Another common reason women will pursue a breast augmentation revision is poor positioning of the breast implant. There are four general types of malposition:
- Falling forward
- Riding high
- Bottoming out
- Symmastia (implants that are coming together)
Each positioning issue brings aesthetic concerns and can look unnatural. However, Dr. Armijo can correct them to achieve the beautiful contour and pleasing appearance each woman desires after breast surgery.
Ptosis
Ptosis is the medical term for sagging breasts. With this issue, the breasts will look droopy and deflated. This complication most commonly occurs after weight fluctuation, saline leakage, or pregnancy after surgery. The process to correct this includes replacing the implants and possibly performing a breast lift if necessary.
Old or Malfunctioning Implants
You may need to replace your implants due to circumstances beyond your control, such as a leak or rupture. In that case, you may wish to take the opportunity to switch to a different implant shape, size, or material.
Understanding the need for breast implant revision
Breast implant revision surgery is sought by many women who are not satisfied with the results of their initial breast augmentation. Whether due to complications such as capsular contracture, unsatisfactory implant placement, or a desire for a different size or shape, breast implant revision provides an opportunity to achieve the desired results. Some patients also seek revision to replace saline implants with silicone or to remove their implants entirely.
What to Expect From a Breast Implant Revision Procedure
If you choose not to have your implants replaced, a breast lift may be necessary to restore your breasts’ firmness and position. This decision is different for every woman and something you can address in greater detail during your consultation with Dr. Armijo.
Women who opt to replace their existing implants with new ones can choose either silicone or saline, and any shape or size Dr. Armijo recommends to achieve your current goals. He can place them above or below your chest muscles, tailoring your procedure to your specific wants and needs.
Dr. Armijo will do his best to follow existing incisions whenever possible to avoid additional scarring.
Like breast augmentation, recovery from revision surgery requires about a week of rest before returning to work and six weeks or more before resuming activities such as exercise. Mandatory follow-up visits allow Dr. Armijo to assess your recovery and help determine when it’s safe for you to go back to your pre-surgery lifestyle.
Is Breast Implant Revision Painful?
The initial trauma of creating the incisions and the breast pockets to hold the implants has already occurred during your first augmentation procedure. Because of that, most patients report less pain and an easier recovery after revision surgery. Dr. Armijo can prescribe painkillers if you desire, but many women opt for over-the-counter pain medication.
How Long Does Breast Implant Revision Take to Heal?
Most of our patients feel well enough to return to work after one to two weeks of recovery, but they should continue avoiding vigorous exercise until Dr. Armijo clears them to. Visible bruising should subside within two weeks, and swelling should begin to resolve within three weeks. If you had new implants placed, they will continue settling into their final position. Your scars will continue to fade and soften for up to one year following your surgery. Remember not to rush your recovery process. Patience is key to achieving the best possible results.
How Much Does a Breast Revision Cost in Dallas, TX?
Various factors can affect the price of your breast augmentation revision in Dallas. When you come in for your consultation, Dr. Armijo will break down an accurate cost estimate. We also offer financing options for your convenience.
Does Insurance Cover a Breast Augmentation Revision?
Though insurance companies consider most breast augmentations to be fully elective procedure, an implant revision is unique. Insurers sometimes cover this surgery when performed for medical reasons such as breast implant rupture, breast implant illness, and capsular contracture. Your coverage may vary depending on your provider, so you will need to check with your insurance company ahead of time.
Arrange a Breast Revision Consultation in Dallas, TX, With Dr. Armijo
To learn more about this procedure, contact board-certified Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Armijo by phone at (214) 540-1434 to arrange your consultation. Dr. Armijo and his team of caring, compassionate staff will be happy to answer your questions and help you prepare for a new chapter in your life.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Our team is ready to help you with any questions you may have! Contact us to learn more about a procedure or to discuss the next steps. We look forward to meeting you.
Dallas Breast Revision FAQs
How do I know if I need breast revision surgery?
You may need breast revision surgery if you’re experiencing discomfort, changes in breast shape or size, or dissatisfaction with previous results. Common reasons include implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardened scar tissue around the implant), implant malposition, or a desire for a different size or type of implant. A consultation with Dr. Armijo can help determine whether revision surgery is right for you.
Can I change the size or type of my implants during breast revision?
Breast revision is an excellent opportunity to change the size, type, or style of your implants. Whether you want a larger or smaller look, switch from saline to silicone, or explore newer implant technologies, Dr. Armijo can help tailor the procedure to achieve your new aesthetic goals while addressing any functional issues.
How soon after my original breast augmentation can I get a revision?
It’s generally recommended to wait at least six months to a year after your initial augmentation before considering revision surgery. This allows your body time to heal fully and the implants to settle into place. However, an earlier revision may be appropriate if you’re experiencing severe discomfort, implant rupture, or other medical concerns. Dr. Armijo will assess the best timing based on your situation.
What’s the recovery like for breast revision compared to the first surgery?
Recovery from breast revision is often similar to—or sometimes shorter than—the initial breast augmentation. Most patients experience mild to moderate soreness and swelling for the first week, with many returning to light activities within a few days. Full recovery, including the ability to resume strenuous exercise, usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. However, the exact timeline depends on the complexity of the revision. Be sure to ask Dr. Armijo what recovery time will look like for you and about post-procedure care.
Will breast revision leave additional scars?
Dr. Armijo aims to use your original incision sites to minimize new scarring. If additional incisions are necessary, such as for repositioning implants or removing scar tissue, he will carefully place them in less visible areas whenever possible. With proper care, scars typically fade significantly over time.
How long do breast implants typically last before needing a revision?
While breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, they aren’t considered lifetime devices. Many patients enjoy their results for 10 to 15 years or longer, but implants may eventually need to be replaced due to natural aging, changes in personal preference, or implant-related complications. Regular check-ups with Dr. Armijo can help monitor your implants’ condition over time.
What if I no longer want implants? Can breast revision remove them completely?
Yes! Breast revision can involve the complete removal of your implants if you no longer want them. Depending on your goals and how your breast tissue has changed, your surgeon may recommend a breast lift to restore a more natural, youthful shape after implant removal. This combination can help prevent sagging or a “deflated” appearance.
What happens if I develop capsular contracture again after revision surgery?
Capsular contracture—the formation of hardened scar tissue around the implant—can sometimes recur, even after revision. Dr. Armijo may recommend techniques to lower the risk, such as using different implant materials, placing implants in a new position (e.g., under the muscle), or using acellular dermal matrices (ADM) to reinforce the tissue. If it happens again, another revision surgery may be necessary to correct it.
Will breast revision surgery affect my nipple sensation?
While there’s a small risk of changes to nipple sensation after any breast surgery, many patients retain or regain normal feeling over time. The risk may be slightly higher if a lift or significant reshaping is involved, but an experienced surgeon like Dr. Armijo takes great care to preserve sensation whenever possible.