Breast Revision
Breast augmentation revision, often simply shortened to “breast revision,” is a procedure designed to either treat complications related to your saline and silicone implants, or to replace your implants with newer devices. This can improve the original results of a primary breast augmentation, address the condition of the implants themselves, or reverse changes to your breasts caused by pregnancy or breastfeeding after your original surgery.
Revisionary procedures typically require the skill and experience of a well-trained breast surgeon to obtain the best possible results. Minneapolis plastic surgeon Joe Gryskiewicz, MD is among the most renowned providers of breast surgery in the region. He can listen to your concerns and develop a surgical plan based on your reasons for the procedure and your unique goals.
Reasons to Undergo Breast Revision
From dissatisfaction with the outcome achieved by another plastic surgeon to the formation of tight, painful scar tissue, each woman has her own personal reasons for pursuing breast revision. Potential motivations behind a secondary breast augmentation procedure include:
- You want to replace your breast implants with a different size, shape, or type of implant (e.g. upgrading from saline to silicone implants).
- Your first breast augmentation surgeon did not meet your expectations.
- The edges of your implant are easily seen or felt under the skin (implant rippling).
- Hardened scar tissue is causing pain, tightness, discomfort, or changes in the appearance of your breasts.
- There may be a leak or tear in your implant(s), which is indicative of rupture and observed through changes in the look or feel of your breasts.
- Weight gain or loss has changed your breast contours.
- The position of your implants has shifted.
In some cases, you may want to remove your breast implants altogether. Breast implant removal is also available for patients who decide they no longer have use for their implants anymore, and explantation is commonly followed by breast lift surgery to restore a natural-looking breast shape after years of implant use.
How is the Breast Revision Procedure Performed?
The details of breast revision vary from patient to patient based on their goals and the nature of their treatment plan. Dr. Gryskiewicz will walk you through your procedure so you understand what to expect during every phase of the process. In many cases, the original incisions placed during breast augmentation can be “re-used” during breast revision, allowing patients to avoid additional scarring. This possibility varies depending on the size and type of your new implants (if you’re undergoing implant exchange). Other techniques such as fat transfer and mastopexy may be utilized to achieve your goals, if necessary.
What is Recovery From Breast Revision Like?
During your recovery period, reactions like swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common and expected. We encourage you to get plenty of rest immediately after surgery to allow your body to heal. Dr. Gryskiewicz will provide you with instructions on post-operative care, including incision care instructions and activity restrictions. Exercise and other strenuous activities are prohibited for at least four to six weeks. Most patients feel well enough to do light activity around the house within a few days, but it can take one to two weeks to return to work and your daily routine.
How Much Does Breast Revision Cost?
In Minneapolis, the cost of breast revision depends on the details of your procedure, your geographic location, and other factors related to your treatment plan. Aspects of your surgery that may influence the price of breast revision include:
- The size and fill-material of your new implants (if applicable)
- The different surgical techniques used to attain the desired outcome
- The overall complexity of your procedure
- Fees related to lab testing, the surgical facility, anesthesia, the surgeon’s experience, etc.
Although we cannot provide a personalized cost estimate of your breast revision expenses until you meet with Dr. Gryskiewicz in a consultation, our office accepts CareCredit® and ALPHAEON™ Credit for qualified patients. This can make your breast revision costs more manageable and bring the procedure into your individual budget. Don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team to learn more about plastic surgery financing and the cost of breast revision.
Questions? Breast revision can allow you to exchange your implants for a new type or size, as well as address implant-related complications. Please call or text our Minneapolis office for information about potential solutions and to book an appointment.