Breast Implant Revision (Implant Removal and Replacement)
Breast implant replacement, also known as breast implant revision surgery, is a procedure that involves removing and replacing breast implants. There are many reasons why a woman would choose to exchange her breast implants. These reasons include a simple change in personal preference or correcting a breast implant complication.
Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas) is a plastic surgeon in Cairns with over 30 years of experience in breast implant removal and replacement. She commonly performs this procedure in accredited facilities in Cairns and on the Gold Coast, including John Flynn Private Hospital and Miami Private Hospital.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
What is Breast Implant Revision Surgery?
Revisional breast surgery involves replacing old breast implants with new implants.
It is common for women to seek a revision of their previous breast augmentation mammoplasty. In a secondary breast surgery procedure, the goal is always to work with the patient's goals and needs at the forefront.
In this case, you may choose a different:
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breast implant size
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breast implant shape (round or anatomical)
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breast implant texture (smooth vs nano-textured)
Depending on your personal goals, the procedure may be a simple breast implant replacement, or you may choose to combine your implant replacement with breast lift surgery (mastopexy), or breast reduction surgery. If your implants no longer suit your frame or lifestyle, some patients also choose to combine their revision with breast mammoplasty surgery to further refine breast shape and volume.
During your procedure, your surgeon may also:
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reshape the breast pocket to correct the implant position
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remove or relax excess scar tissue, and/or
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add an internal bra to lift the breast and support the implant
Revisional breast surgery is a very personalised procedure. The procedure itself will vary depending on your unique situation. The best way to explore this is with a confidential consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Hertess.
In some cases, a patient may prefer not to have new implants placed at all. Dr Hertess also offers straightforward breast implant removal without replacement, sometimes referred to as breast explant surgery, for women who wish to return to a natural breast profile. This may be performed with or without a breast lift, depending on skin quality and your desired outcome.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
What Does Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty Revision Involve?
Breast revision is always performed under general anaesthetic at an accredited hospital. This means you will be asleep during your surgery.
When you wake up, you will have dissolvable stitches under the skin, a compression garment, and often be able to go home the same day. You will also have a revised breast augmentation mammoplasty scar, typically in the crease underneath your breast.
At a glance, breast implant removal and replacement involves:
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Time in surgery: 1-3 hours.
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Hospital stay: Day case or overnight stay.
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Time off work: 1-2 weeks.
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Time before driving: 1-2 weeks.
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Time before exercise: 6 weeks.
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Compression garment: 6 weeks.
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Scar position: In fold beneath the breast
Who is Revision Breast Surgery For?
There are many reasons a woman may choose to undergo breast implant replacement surgery. She may want to:
Change Breast Implant Size and Shape
Some women desire to change the size and shape of their breast implants. This could be due to:
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Personal preference. Your preferences may have changed since your initial surgery. You may choose to increase or decrease your breast size in order to better suit you and your lifestyle.
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Weight fluctuations, ageing and/or motherhood. Your breasts or body may have changed over time, causing you to re-evaluate your current breast implant size.
Address Breast Implant Complications
The second reason women may choose breast implant revision is to address a breast implant complication, including (but not limited to):
These complications can occur over time and cause discomfort or deformity of the breast. As they all require unique treatment methods, it is essential to see a Specialist breast revision surgeon. This will ensure you receive personalised, professional treatment for your situation.
Manufacturers also recommend implants be reviewed periodically, and many women choose breast implant removal and replacement simply because their implants have reached the end of their expected lifespan, even without complications present.
Breast Implant Removal and Replacement Procedure
Breast augmentation mammoplasty revision surgery is a highly personalised procedure. This means the steps involved will depend on your individual goals and current breast situation. The best way to understand your options is with a private consultation with Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas).
1. Consultation
During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss:
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Your personal reasons for choosing revision surgery
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Your desired outcomes
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Your current breast situation and any concerns or complications
Dr Hertess will then conduct a physical examination to assess your breast anatomy, skin quality, implant position and any scar tissue. She may also take measurements and photographs to assist in planning your procedure.
2. Pre-Operative Preparation
Prior to surgery, you will have a pre-operative appointment where you will receive all the necessary information to prepare for your procedure, including:
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Specific instructions regarding fasting
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Medication and vitamins to avoid
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Pre-operative testing requirements (if needed)
Dr Hertess will also discuss any potential risks and complications associated with revisional breast surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to support a successful surgery.
3. The Procedure
Once you are asleep under general anaesthesia, Dr Hertess will perform the revisional surgery. The specific steps involved in your procedure may include:
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Creating a new incision to allow access to the breast pocket
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Removing and replacing the breast implant(s)
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Adjusting or removing scar tissue as needed
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Placing an internal bra to support the implant
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Closing the incisions with dissolvable stitches and dressing the area
4. Recovery
Following your procedure, you will need to rest for 1-2 weeks before returning to work. You may experience some discomfort and swelling in the treated area, but this can be managed with medication and a compression garment.
It is important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 6 weeks to promote proper healing. Dr Hertess will provide you with specific aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.
The total recovery time for breast implant revision surgery is approximately 6 weeks. As with all surgery, individual recovery experiences will vary, and Dr Hertess will tailor her advice to your specific procedure and health history.
Book a Consultation to Discuss Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant revision surgery can help address various concerns and complications related to breast implants. Whether you want to change the size or type of your implants, are considering breast implant removal without replacement, or are experiencing issues with your current ones, Dr Hertess can provide guidance and solutions.
Book a consultation with our plastic surgeon in Cairns to discuss your options for breast implant replacement surgery. You can also view our breast implant revision before-and-after gallery to help you make an informed decision.
Breast Implant Revision FAQs
Can you have breast implants removed and replaced at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to have your implants removed and replaced during the same procedure. This is often a convenient option for patients as it only requires one surgery and recovery period.
How do I know when my breast implants need replacing?
You may need secondary breast surgery if you are experiencing any discomfort, changes in appearance, or have concerns with your current breast implants. In this case, it is important to consult with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon about revision surgery. They will be able to assess your situation and recommend the best course of action for you.
Is breast implant revision painful?
As with any surgery, you may experience some discomfort during the recovery period. Breast implant replacement surgery is often less painful than initial augmentation mammoplasty surgery. Dr Hertess will provide you with a pain management plan to help manage any discomfort as you heal.
Can I choose a different size implant for my revision surgery?
Yes. If you are unhappy with the size of your current implants, you can discuss your desired outcome with Dr Hertess during your consultation. She will be able to provide recommendations and help you choose a new size that is more suitable for your body.
Does breast implant revision surgery leave scars?
Yes, all surgical procedures leave a scar. Breast implant revision surgery will leave a scar over your previous breast augmentation mammoplasty scar (underneath the breast). If you choose to add a breast lift surgery (mastopexy) or breast reduction surgery to your procedure, you will have additional scars.
Can you use the same implants with revision?
In some cases, it may be possible to use the same implants during revision surgery. However, this will depend on your individual situation and the condition and age of your current implants. Dr Hertess will assess this during your consultation and provide recommendations for the best course of action.
What does breast revision surgery cost?
The breast implant replacement cost varies depending on individual factors and the specific procedure involved. Dr Hertess will provide you with a detailed quote during your consultation.
CAIRNS PLASTIC SURGERY
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Level 1, Suite 12A,
193-197 Lake Street,
Cairns, QLD, 4870 - 07 4031 5755
- enquiry@cairnsplasticsurgery.com
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