Breast Revision: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview:
Revision surgery for breast implants is a surgical procedure used to resolve complications, dissatisfaction with previous breast augmentation results, or changes in breast appearance. It involves removing or replacing breast implants to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes or to resolve issues such as rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition, or dissatisfaction with implant size.
Preparation:
In preparation for breast revision surgery, the following steps are usually taken:
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To discuss their concerns, previous breast augmentation history, and desired outcomes, patients consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. To develop a personalized treatment plan, the surgeon evaluates the patient's breast anatomy, skin quality, implant placement, and any existing complications.
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During the medical evaluation, patients undergo a physical examination, breast imaging studies (e.g., mammography, ultrasound), and laboratory tests to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
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Surgeon explains the potential risks, benefits, and limitations of breast revision surgery, as well as realistic expectations.
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Surgical Instructions: Patients receive specific instructions prior to surgery, such as avoiding certain medications (e.g., blood thinners), abstaining from smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Procedure:
Typically, breast revision involves the following steps:
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Depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's preferences, breast revision surgery may be performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia.
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According to surgical goals and previous incision locations, the surgeon makes incisions around the areola (periareolar incision), in the breast crease (inframammary incision), or in the axilla (transaxillary incision).
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As part of the removal or replacement of the existing breast implants, the surgeon may also perform a capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue around the implant) or mastopexy (breast lift) if necessary. In order to achieve desired volume, shape, and symmetry, new implants can be inserted.
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The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures or surgical adhesive, and sterile dressings or surgical tape may be applied to promote healing.
Recovery:
Following breast revision surgery, you will need to:
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After surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, discomfort, and temporary changes in breast sensation. Pain medications, compression garments, and supportive bras are often recommended to manage these symptoms and provide comfort.
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It is advised that patients rest with their upper bodies elevated for several weeks and avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and overhead reaching. Within one to two weeks, most patients can return to work and normal daily activities, but they should avoid strenuous exercise for four to six weeks.
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Patients are scheduled for follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress, remove sutures, assess healing and symmetry, and discuss any concerns or complications that may arise.
Risks:
There are certain risks and potential complications associated with breast revision surgery, including:
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Infection and bleeding may occur following breast revision surgery. Antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection, and meticulous surgical techniques are used to minimize bleeding.
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Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in breast sensation following surgery, such as numbness or hypersensitivity. These sensory changes usually resolve with time, but in some cases they may persist.
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Complications associated with implants may include implant rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition, or implant asymmetry, requiring additional surgical interventions.
Aftercare:
Aftercare following breast revision surgery includes:
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To prevent infection and promote optimal healing, patients should keep the incision sites clean and dry, following the surgeon's instructions.
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To minimize swelling, provide comfort, and support the breasts during healing, patients may be instructed to wear compression garments or supportive bras.
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The patient should attend all follow-up appointments with their surgeon to ensure proper healing, monitor complications, and discuss long-term care and maintenance strategies.
