Breast Implant Revision

If you have had breast surgery and are unhappy with the results, you may find that breast implant revision can make a difference to your self-esteem and quality of life.

There are a number of reasons why you may be considering breast implant revision, including:

• dissatisfaction with previous surgery
• complications associated with the implant, such as hardening, leakage, deflation or rupture
• complications associated with breast surgery such as contracture or infection,
• shifting, rubbing, rippling or wrinkling of the implant
• incorrect size

If any of these issues concern you, Dr Hunt can discuss the options for correction and give you a clear understanding of the improvements that can be achieved.

Types of implants

Breast implants come in many shapes and sizes, and are made with a range of materials. The outer, pliable shell of an implant is thin, solid silicone, and the surface may be either smooth or textured. A textured surface lessens the formation of scar tissue around the implant, while smooth-surface implants have a slightly softer shell and are less likely to be felt through the skin and tissue.

Breast implant shells are filled with either saline or silicon. Saline naturally comprises most of the human body, so if the implant should leak (this occurs in less than 5% of implants) its fluid can be easily and safely absorbed. Silicone is one of the most intensively researched materials used in medicine and has been subjected to extensive safety testing. It has been scientifically proven that silicone gel implants carry no increased risk of:

• breast cancer
• autoimmune diseases
• risks when breast-feeding

Considering breast implant revision?

There are some common questions that many people who are contemplating breast surgery ask, such as:

Is it for me?

Having made the decision to have breast surgery, you expect the best possible outcome. If the results were disappointing, Dr Hunt can provide you with relevant advice regarding your options.

What happens at the first consultation?

On your first visit to Dr Hunt he will evaluate where you are starting from with regard to your breast size and shape, and what you want the end result to be. He will also assess nipple position, skin elasticity, and chest width. He can then explain which surgical techniques are appropriate, based on the condition of your breast and skin tone.

During this consultation, Dr Hunt will evaluate your general health and take measurements of your breasts. He will suggest alternatives; outlining the potential risks and limitations of each procedure, as well as reviewing the recommended pre- and post-operative course with you.

At the end of the consultation, you will have pictures taken for your medical record to assist Dr Hunt in achieving the optimal result.

After the consultation, a quote will be prepared for you that will include your surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.

A follow up appointment will be necessary if you wish to proceed with surgery.

What's involved?

Breast surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, given by an anaesthetist, in an accredited hospital, so you are assured of the highest standard of care.

The type of procedure you undergo will depend on the problem that requires revision. Dr Hunt will do everything possible to ensure you get the outcome that you want. Every effort will be made to ensure any incisions are placed so resulting scars will be as small as possible, often using existing scars.

All sutures used in the surgery are absorbable, and so will not require removal.

When can I go home?

Depending on the type of procedure you have most patients go home on the day of surgery, although you may elect to stay in overnight. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you will go home.

You will wear a surgical bra with small pieces of gauze over the incisions for 2 to 3 days after surgery.

At home you will need someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours. When you are discharged you will be given prescriptions for antibiotics and for pain medication to minimise your discomfort. You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it to prevent an upset stomach.

Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume your normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids.

If you experience any problems after surgery contact Dr Hunt immediately. This is especially important if your temperature is elevated.

Will I have to return for post-operative care?

Depending on the procedure you have you will return to see Dr Hunt 3 to 5 days after surgery.

You will learn how to massage and exercise your breasts and have your post-operative breast care reinforced.

Follow-up visits may be required, and Dr Hunt will discuss this with you.

How long will I be off work?

You should plan on taking 1 week off work.

When can I resume my normal activities?

You will experience the most discomfort in the 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Your breasts will be swollen and tender, although this will settle quickly. Mild bruising will fade over 5 or 6 days. A small amount of swelling may remain for 3 to 5 weeks.

You should restrict all physical activity for at least 2 weeks. Do not lift anything over 5kg and do not drive.

Do not undertake any strenuous activities for 4 weeks.

Do not undertake chest or weights exercises for 6 weeks. You must protect your breasts from stretching activities for at least 6 weeks to allow the incisions to heal.

You may experience a burning sensation in your nipples for 1 to 2 weeks, but this will gradually subside. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for 2 to 3 weeks, so avoid too much physical contact.

Your scars will be firm and pink for at least 6 weeks. After several months, your scars will begin to fade, although they will never disappear completely.

Take the next step. If you're ready to learn more about breast implant revision, or take that step toward an improved quality of life click the button below to make an appointment to see Dr Jeremy Hunt

With time breast implants can become distorted or skin may stretch altering the breast shapes. Correction of this can restore a more pleasing shape and volume to the breast and allow a more confident approach to life.