Breast Revision

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While the vast majority of patients typically experience immense satisfaction from the outcome of their breast surgery, there are a number of reasons why some women may seek a revisional procedure. Commonly, breast revision is utilized to correct complications in breast implants that can arise with the passage of time, such as capsular contracture, implant rippling, or—in rare cases—implant rupture. Other times, an individual may simply wish to upgrade to a different implant size, type, or location.  Whether you consider breast revision surgery because of the need to address internal problems with your breast implants, dissatisfaction with the original aesthetic outcome, or a desire to adjust or further improve your breast appearance, Boston-area plastic surgeon Geoffrey Leber, MD, FACS has comprehensive experience attaining optimal results in breast revision and is committed to making your aesthetic ideal a reality.

Why Undergo Breast Revision?

There are a number of circumstances that may necessitate breast revision surgery—either immediately after a patient’s’ initial breast enhancement or at some point in the future. Substandard technique or poor communication from a previous surgeon, health-related issues, or a compromised recovery process are some of the many factors that can warrant an additional procedure to obtain the desired outcome. While the decision to undergo breast revision is unique and personal for every woman, the surgery is commonly pursued for the following reasons:

Revisional Surgery After Breast Augmentation

  • To exchange your implant for a different size or type
  • To replace a ruptured or deflated implant
  • To address scar tissue formation (capsular contracture), a shell leak in a silicone implant, or other issues
  • To change the location of your breast implant (submuscular or subglandular positioning)
  • To resolve poor implant placement, malposition, breast asymmetry, or contour irregularities
  • To remove the implant altogether and return to your original breast size
  • To correct alterations in your breast appearance that occurred over time as a result of aging, pregnancy, nursing, or weight fluctuation

Revisional Surgery After Breast Lift and Breast Reduction

  • To increase breast volume and fullness with a breast augmentation
  • To correct the appearance of skin drooping or breast sag that developed over time
  • To improve the appearance of the nipple-areolar complexes
  • To achieve the amount of breast reduction that you originally desired, but was not reflected in the final outcome
  • To correct asymmetry, prominent scarring, or other issues resulting from a poor recovery process

How is Breast Revision Performed?

The techniques used in breast revision are heavily dependent on each patient’s unique circumstances. After a thorough consultation in which your cosmetic concerns and goals are discussed, Dr. Leber will determine the best approach to achieve your ideal outcome based on your reasons for revision, anatomic indicators, and the details of your previous surgery. You will be intimately involved through every step of the process to ensure your unique needs and concerns are being addressed. In some cases, the original incision used for your first enhancement surgery can also be utilized for the revisional procedure. Dr. Leber has the training necessary to improve the outcome of your surgery and employs innovative techniques, such as the “Dermal Wing Mastopexy” and the “Dermal Wing Reduction,” that can decrease the risk of recurrent ptosis (breast sag) when compared to more traditional approaches.

Patient Results

Below are a few cases from our extensive gallery, click here to view more.

What is Recovery for Breast Revision Like?

While the recovery process will vary for each patient according to the nature of their unique treatment plan, the healing period for breast revision can be very similar to other breast enhancement procedures. Temporary post-operative bruising and swelling should be expected and the surgical outcome should improve as the body continues to heal. Although aerobic exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Leber, many individuals return to normal activities after a few days. Dr. Leber will provide detailed recovery instructions at the time of operation. Strict adherence to these measures has been known to optimize patients’ results.