Breast implant revision may be considered if your needs or circumstances have changed.
This can occur for various reasons, whether it be cosmetic concerns, the desire to upsize or downsize, or complications requiring implant removal and/or replacement.
During your consultation, Dr Leo Kim will take the time to understand your current concerns and discuss any new goals you may have regarding your breast implants. This appointment is an opportunity to review your options, assess clinical suitability, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
What is involved in breast revision surgery?
A breast implant revision surgery involves the removal and/or replacement of breast implants. The procedure can be performed to change the shape and/or size of the implants and correct any complications that may have arisen from your previous surgery. If you choose to also replace the old implant, a new up-to-date breast implant in a new breast pocket will be prepared.
Breast Implant Removal
A breast implant removal surgery involves the surgeon making a small inframammary incision (IMF) along the breast fold. From there, Dr Leo Kim will remove the breast implants, and most typically, the breast capsule as well. In some breast implant removal cases, where conditions for capsular contraction have been presented, deflation occurs, or the breast implant has ruptured, the removal surgery can become more complex to achieve the desired results.
Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
In many cases, incisions for breast implant revision surgery are placed in the same location as the original procedure, where appropriate. During surgery, Dr Leo Kim will remove the existing implants and insert new ones based on the treatment plan discussed during consultation.
If there is a degree of breast ptosis (drooping), a breast lift (mastopexy) may also be recommended. In this case, excess skin may be removed and the breast repositioned at the same time as the new implants are placed.
The overall aim of revision surgery is to restore or improve breast contour based on the individual’s goals and clinical presentation—whether continuing with implants or opting for removal without replacement.
Breast Revision Recovery
The recovery process for breast revision surgery is in some ways similar to the recovery for a breast augmentation. During recovery, you may require some assistance during the first few days.
It is recommended you take rest during your recovery period and that you take all the correct amounts of prescribed medications to help your recovery remain smooth. You may also be called back into see Dr Leo Kim to get drainage tubes that will assist with any excess fluid.
What to know before breast revision surgery
Before considering a secondary surgical procedure, establish your goals, if you haven’t already. These goals could include but are not subjected to cosmetic concerns including upsizing or downsizing breast implants or altering the shape.
Alternatively, other women seek this procedure in hopes of correcting a breast implant associated complications. These complications could include outdated breast implants, capsular contracture, implant rupture or leakage, implant malposition, implant rotation, unsightly cleavage results (too wide or too close) or symmastia (kissing implants). Or you’ve decided breast implants are not for you any longer and are making the decision to have them removed.
Whatever your reason for considering breast implant revision surgery, it is important to attend your consultation with clear goals and a strong understanding of what you hope to achieve. The decision to undergo surgery should be made independently, based on your personal preferences and circumstances—not external pressure or influence.
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Risks associated with breast revision surgery
Any invasive surgical procedure poses risk. These risks will be discussed with you in detail at your consultation.
- Anaesthesia – Some patients experience an adverse reaction to the anaesthesia. If you’ve experienced a bad reaction to anaesthesia before it is crucial you mention this to your surgeon during the consultation.
- Bleeding – Bleeding can occur and while a little light bleeding is no concern, excessive bleeding may require a return to the operating theatre. Fortunately, this is rare.
- Haematoma – A painful pool or pocket of blood that can accumulate under the skin, resembling a bruise. Fortunately, this is rare.
- Infection – You will be provided with the right antibiotics to prevent any posed risk of infection. Following postoperative care procedures is the best way to avoid any risk of infection.
- Numbness – It is rare for permanent numbness to occur; however, it is possible and something to keep in mind. Loss of sensation can also occur in the nipple or surrounding the nipple.
- Poor Scar Healing – Noticeable healing and bad scarring are extremely rare. Poor scar healing is virtually unheard of when postoperative scar care is followed closely.
- Revision Surgery – Some patients choose to come in for a second surgery to help better achieve their desired results, or if the results appear asymmetric.
Breast Revision Surgery FAQs
Dr Leo Kim and his experienced team have answered frequently asked questions regarding this surgery. If you have a separate question or concern, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
While both breast revision and breast reconstruction involve surgery to alter the breasts, they differ in purpose, technique, and the circumstances under which they are performed.
Breast Revision Surgery
This procedure is typically performed to address changes or concerns related to existing breast implants. It may involve removing or replacing implants to alter size, shape, or to correct complications such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or changes in appearance over time.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast reconstruction is the process of rebuilding the shape of the breast, often following a mastectomy or lumpectomy for breast cancer. This procedure aims to restore the breast’s form using implants, the patient’s own tissue, or a combination of both. Reconstruction may be performed at the time of cancer surgery or at a later stage.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, contact our clinic today.
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. While some individuals may retain their implants for many years without issues, others may require revision or replacement due to changes in anatomy, implant integrity, or personal preference.
Manufacturers may offer warranties on implants, but this does not guarantee that the implants will last a lifetime. On average, breast implant revision or replacement may be considered around the 10- to 20-year mark, depending on individual circumstances.
If you have concerns about the condition of your implants or are approaching this timeframe, we recommend booking a consultation to assess whether a review or further imaging is appropriate.
Breast implant removal surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes anywhere between one to three hours. This can depend on if the surgeon has to simply remove a deflated implant or remove ruptured implants as well as replacing them.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, contact our clinic today.
Breast Revision Surgery Sydney CBD
When you come in to see Dr Leo Kim at Quayside Specialists, Sydney CBD, we will ensure you feel self-assured about your decision and are fully informed on all the options suitable for your needs.
Contact us today to book a consultation or make an enquiry.