How to Know When it’s Time for Breast Revision Surgery

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures available, so it comes as no surprise that many patients have concerns about breast revision surgery. Whether you have complications with your implants or are simply interested in adjusting your results, breast revision surgery is an option. Here are a few signs that it may be time for you to consider having your breast implants removed or replaced.

You Feel Pain or Discomfort in the Breasts

Pain or discomfort associated with your implants can be very bothersome and can be due to several conditions. Sometimes this requires implants to be removed or replaced. The most common cause of pain that develops years after your augmentation is capsular contracture, a condition in which the scarring that naturally forms around a breast implant becomes hard and contracts. Schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon with your breasts feel more sensitive than usual, are painful to the touch, or if flexing your chest muscles causes pain in the breast.

Your Implants Look or Feel Different

A change in the way your breast implants look or feel can be a sign that it’s time for a breast revision. Implants that feel hard can be a sign of capsular contracture. Changes in shape or size can also indicate a larger issue. Implants can shift over time, resulting in a “double bubble” look if they slip too low in the breast or rotate or “bread-loafing” if they move towards the center of the chest. A change in size or shape can also indicate a leak or rupture. Saline implants may look deflated due to leaks, while silicone implants can look misshapen. Time and gravity can affect the position of the implants or the breast tissue, and changes in hormones with pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause can cause changes in the breasts that may make the implants that fit your body perfectly when they were placed no longer the right choice. This is also why some patients choose to pair their revision with a breast lift to recreate a youthful look that they enjoyed after their initial breast augmentation.

Your First Surgery was 10 or More Years Ago

Breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. Generally speaking, manufacturers offer a warranty of 10-20 years for breast implants, and it is somewhat common for patients to require new implants at around 12-15 years after their first augmentation. In general breast implants have a 1% per year risk of rupture, so at 10 years there is a 10% chance and a lot of patients choose that time to replace their implants and renew the warranty. 

You’re Unhappy with the Size or Style

Even when you have no complications with your breast implants, it is still worthwhile to consider a revision when you are no longer happy with your results. Many women are now opting for smaller implants or removing their implants altogether as trends change and more people opt for active lifestyles. On the other hand, some patients may choose larger implants to suit their changing cosmetic preferences or to achieve a more proportionate look. Breast implants are also available in a variety of materials and shapes, so it is possible to swap your implants for a more natural or dramatic look if you choose. During a consultation, Dr. Plant will review all of your options and help you achieve the look you want.

Schedule a Consultation

No matter your reason for choosing a breast revision, the process begins with a thorough consultation to review all of your options. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Plant in Toronto, call (416) 907-4704 or contact us online.

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