Breast Revision Surgery

Breast Revision Surgery with Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon Dr. Robert Spies

Breast revision surgery is an operation performed after a woman’s first breast augmentation. There are many reasons why a woman would request a second surgery and many times it’s because of personal preference and not something such as breast implant deflation or rupture. It is important to note that breast implants are not lifetime devices and may need to be replaced eventually.

Some women opt for breast revision surgery just to change their breast size, wishing they had “gone bigger.” According to the FDA, approximately 37 percent of all breast revision surgeries in the U.S. are due to patients wanting a larger size implant. During a breast augmentation consultation, many women are concerned about having breasts that are too large. Unfortunately, once they get used to their new breasts and the swelling subsides, sometimes they change their mind and opt for a fuller size.

There are other reasons patients request a secondary cosmetic breast procedure. A small percentage develops capsular contracture. Some patients want to switch from saline to silicone implants because they desire a softer and more natural feel or because of rippling problems. Post- pregnancy breast changes is another reason to request a breast revision procedure. And lastly, some women are unhappy with the placement of their breast implant or other issues such as double-bubble, symmastia, or bottoming out.

Breast revision surgery can be more difficult than the initial breast augmentation for many reasons. Scar tissue is a major factor that makes it more difficult to predict a good result. Also, I am confronted with the stretching of tissues or anatomical changes caused by previous implants.

I believe that breast revision can oftentimes be more successful when the implant is placed in a different area from the first surgery. For instance, placing the implant under the muscle instead of over it and vice versa. There is less scar tissue and less tissue deformity from the first surgery when operating on a different area. But the best course of action is always determined on an individual basis.

No matter what the patient’s reason is for breast revision surgery, I am here to ensure that she is completely happy the second time around. Please call our Scottsdale Plastic Surgery office today to schedule a consultation. It is my goal to improve your self-image and I want to ensure that you have the breasts you’ve always dreamed of. I will help you understand more about the procedure and the recovery period associated with it.