Breast Implant Revision Los Angeles | Las Vegas
Breast Implant Revision Los Angeles
Breast augmentation surgery isn’t without potential risks as implants are medical devices with potential adverse effects that could require a revision procedure to correct. There are a variety of reasons for breast implant revision due to several reasons such as seeking further cosmetic improvement.
While most patients are pleased with their outcomes and their implants are satisfactory for a lifetime, there are other cases where breast implant revision becomes necessary.
Breast implant revision patient testimonial by a patient who desired improved breast shape and smaller implants.
Breast Augmentation Revision due to Implant Rupture
What causes breast implant rupture?
Breast implant failure is a known possibility with all implant types. Breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, but they are not indestructible. The most causes of implant rupture are due to the age of the implant. However, implant ruptures have been known to occur due to trauma and manufacturing defects. Replacement is necessary in both cases to maintain the desired appearance and prevent complications.
- Silicone Implant Rupture – When silicone implants rupture, the gel may remain within the breast pocket, leading to a silent rupture. Silicone implant rupture is more likely to be detected with a mammogram or MRI which has the highest sensitivity and specificity for implant rupture. However, some silicone implant ruptures have been detected due to changes in shape or size.
- Saline Implant Rupture – When saline implants rupture, the implant will deflate and be easily noticeable. The saline solution is absorbed by the body and the size of the breast will deflate. This is usually not a medical emergency as the saline solution is considered not harmful to the body.
Surgical replacement of breast implants after rupture is relatively easy to perform with most patients reporting the replacement surgery easier than the initial procedure.
Breast Implant Revision for Malplacement
Implant malplacement can occur due to an inexperienced surgeon, post-operative patient compliance issues, or for completely unknown reasons. Implant malplacement is usually visible, commonly presenting asymmetry, or the initial implant pockets were created too high, too low, too far apart, or too close together (symmastia or “uniboob”).
The surgical correction requires revision of the implant pockets to correct the implant position. Sometimes the implants will need to be replaced with new ones. In other cases, the same implants may be used for the revision procedure.
Breast Implant Revision to Change Size or Type of Implant
For some patients, changing implant size to achieve a different look is the most common reason for a revision procedure. However, with the advances of better silicone gel implants, many patients with saline implants choose to switch out their implants to improve shape, feel, and size.
Changes in Body Shape, Weight, Aging and Skin Changes
Significant weight loss, gain, or changes in body composition can alter the appearance of breasts after augmentation. Once your body weight is stable, revision surgery can help achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Additionally, pregnancy and breastfeeding can impact breast size and shape, prompting a desire for implant revision and possibly a breast lift.
As patients age, loss of skin elasticity can impact the appearance of breast implants. Revision surgery may be sought to address sagging or changes in breast contour that occur over time.
Breast Implant Revision for Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture breast surgery specialist Dr. Peter Fodor
Capsular contracture is the development of excessive scar tissue around the breast implant that can contract months or years after the procedure. Treatment is indicated when this capsule of scar becomes problematic with firmness or distortion. Treatment involves surgical removal of the scar tissue and implant replacement.
The symptoms of capsular contracture can vary in severity and may include:
- Firmness – The breast may feel hard and unnatural to the touch.
- Pain or Discomfort – Some individuals may experience pain or discomfort in the affected breast.
- Changes in Shape – The breast may appear distorted or misshapen due to the tightness of the capsule.
- Elevation of the Breast – The affected breast may sit higher on the chest compared to the other breast.
Breast implant revision for capsular contraction before after photos – After photo is one week after surgery for replacement of breast implants, partial capsulectomy. Note the minor bruising and minimum swelling.
Can Capsular contracture be fixed?
Yes, capsular contracture can be fixed with accurate diagnosis and developing the right treatment plan.
Capsular contracture is typically diagnosed through physical examination and patient-reported symptoms. In some cases, imaging studies such as ultrasounds or MRIs may be used to assess the condition of the implant and surrounding tissues.
Treatment for capsular contracture depends on the severity of the condition. Options may include:
- Surgical Intervention – If the contracture is severe or causes significant issues, surgical options may be considered to remove the hardened capsule (capsulectomy) and possibly the implant.
- Implant Replacement – In some cases, replacing the existing implant with a new one may be necessary.
What is Capsulectomy?
Capsultectomy is a surgical procedure to remove scar tissue that surrounds the breast implant. This procedure is necessary to improve excess scar tissue that constricts the breast implant causing discomfort and a visually distorted appearance.
The challenge with the capsulectomy surgery is to retain as much breast tissue as possible through a conservative approach when removing the implant and the scar tissue around the implant.
Partial Capsulectomy – most capsulectomy surgeries only require a partial removal of the scar tissue. This approach is favored by Dr. Fodo in order to preserve natural breast tissue.
Total capsulectomy – some surgeons recommend this type of revision procedure but is not always indicated to preserve breast tissue.
Above photo is a set of breast implants removed with capsulectomy.
Your Favorite Version of You Begins Here
Call today to schedule your confidential consultation with Dr. Peter Fodor to discuss your cosmetic goals.