Breast Implant Revision

Improving Unsatisfactory or Failed Breast Implants

Whether your implants were placed for cosmetic breast augmentation or for breast reconstruction, discomfort or complications can develop over time. You may feel that your breasts don’t look or feel the way you intended, and in some cases, pain or visible deformities can occur. Even if you have been told “nothing more can be done,” advanced surgical techniques often allow us to help patients with unsatisfactory  for significant improvement, restoring comfort, confidence, and peace of mind.

Revising Unsatisfactory Breast Implant Reconstruction

Breast implant revision is a personalized surgical procedure designed to correct or enhance the results of a previous implant-based breast reconstruction. It may be needed when:

• The initial reconstruction produced unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
• Changes occurred over time due to capsular contracture, implant displacement, or rippling.
• “Animation” or “dynamic deformity” causes implants to move unnaturally with chest muscle activity.
• Chronic pain or ongoing discomfort requires further evaluation.

Revision often involves one or more of the following steps:

• Removal and/or replacement of existing implants (possibly with newer-generation devices or different sizes).
• Reshaping the “pocket” that holds the implant.
• Changing the implant position from below the muscle to above the muscle—or vice versa.
• Fat grafting to add volume or improve contours.
• Breast lift (mastopexy) to correct sagging or asymmetry.

Replacing Implants with Your Body’s Own Tissue

If you no longer wish to keep implants—or have already had them removed—natural-tissue breast reconstruction can be an excellent solution. Many patients who have experienced discomfort with implants find relief when switching to a flap-based reconstruction (e.g., DIEP, LAP, or other perforator flaps).

• Reduced Pain: Studies and patient experiences often indicate a decrease or elimination of breast pain once implants are replaced with natural tissue.
• Better Outcomes with Radiation: For patients who have had radiation therapy, implant reconstructions tend to carry a higher risk of complications. Consequently, using your own tissue may improve both aesthetic results and quality of life.

A Word About Breast Implants: They Do Not Last Forever

Problems with breast implants are not uncommon, and many do not reflect a serious underlying health issue. However, the longer an implant remains in the body, the higher the likelihood of complications that require surgery. Such complications include rupture, shifting position, infection, and capsular contracture.

• No “10-Year” Rule: While there’s a myth that implants must be replaced every ten years, routine replacement isn’t mandatory if no issues arise.
• FDA Data:
  • Approximately 1 in 3 women who undergo breast reconstruction with implants will need additional unplanned surgery within the first 3 years.
  • Over half will require additional surgery within 10 years.
  • About 1 in 3 women who have an implant based breast reconstruction will experience a problem or issue requiring removal of implants (with or without replacement).

For detailed references and images of common implant complications, consult the FDA’s Consumer Information on breast implants.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know if I’m a candidate for breast implant revision?
  If you have previously had breast implant surgery and are either not happy with the outcome of surgery or are having an issue or complications, you are likely a candidate for revision surgery. At the time of consultation, we will discuss the surgical options that best suit your individual needs and goals.
• What if my implants were placed many years ago?
  No matter when your implants were placed, if you are not satisfied with the results or you are experiencing complications, you are likely a candidate for revision surgery.
• Can I switch from implants to natural tissue reconstruction?
  Many of our patients opt to remove unsatisfactory breast implants in exchange for natural tissue breast reconstruction. We can develop a plan to replace breast implants with natural tissue based upon your individual anatomy and preferences. 
  

We Are Here to Help

If you’re considering Breast Implant Revision—whether to address complications, improve appearance, or transition to natural-tissue reconstruction—our dedicated team at TPRSG is here to guide you. Contact us today to discuss your options and find a solution that fits your needs and goals.