The FDA has recently asked Allergan to recall textured breast implants since they feel that there may be a link between these types of implants and a very rare form of cancer called BIA-ALCL, a type of lymphoma that may develop in the scar tissue around the implant. Over 12 million women around the world have Allergan textured implants, and we here at AesthetiCare have used these implants almost exclusively during the past 25 years and thus have a tremendous amount of experience with this product. While warnings of this nature should be taken very seriously, it is essential to know that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is very low. Please visit us for a free consultation to discuss your options with our experienced Allergan breast implant surgeons to learn more about this issue. We welcome all new and existing patients to come in for a complimentary consultation about your options and resources. Please note that Allergan is offering no charge smooth saline and silicone replacement implants for those patients wishing to exchange their textured Allergan breast implants for smooth implants.
Breast Surgery Revision in Orange County
Breast revision surgery takes place after an initial breast procedure and can address a range of aesthetic concerns. Patients often choose to change implants with breast revision if they are dissatisfied with the resulting size or shape of their breasts after augmentation. Occasionally, one implant will settle higher or lower than the other, creating an unbalanced appearance. Breast lift or breast reduction patients may also feel unhappy with their results, as aging and pregnancy can lead to drooping breasts with nipples that hang below the breast crease. Postoperative complications, including capsular contracture and implant rupture, can also be corrected with breast revision.If you’re interested in this procedure, schedule your consultation with AesthetiCare in Orange Country, San Diego, or Riverside.
What Can Breast Revision Achieve?
Reasons to Consider Breast Revision
General Dissatisfaction
Most patients seek breast revision due to having a general dissatisfaction with a previous breast procedure. Breast augmentation patients may feel their implants are too big or too small and want them exchanged for a different size. Many women decide to replace their saline implants with silicone implants for an improved breast aesthetic to give them a more natural appearance with improvement in appearance and feel. Even after a breast lift or reduction procedure, the breasts can still be affected by aging and weight fluctuations. Natural changes in the breasts may necessitate a revision surgery to restore them to a more pleasing appearance.
Breast Implant or Nipple Malposition
- Implant malposition or displacement occurs when the implant shifts from its original placement, which may cause the breast to appear misshapen. During breast revision surgery, your surgeon can alter the breast pockets, shift the implants, or change the implant placement. Some of the more common examples of implant malposition include:
- Bottoming out
- Double bubble deformity
- Symmastia
- Nipple malposition can occur when a patient has undergone breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction surgery in the past that has resulted in poor nipple positioning. Breast revision can be performed to modify the placement and shape of the nipple-areolar complex. Sometimes, repositioning the implants can also enhance the symmetry between the nipples.
Implant Failure
- When saline implants deflate, it is conspicuous. Saline implants deflate within a few days after failure. The saline filler is sterile and will be absorbed by the body, but the sudden loss of breast volume can be extremely displeasing. Quickly addressing the issue helps prevent the contraction of the breast pocket, which makes the breast revision procedure go much smoother.
- It is much harder to detect silicone implant rupture without an MRI evaluation because the cohesive gel filler does not leak out like saline solution. However, a ruptured silicone implant can lose its shape, and the affected breast can feel spongy. There are no known long-term concerns related to silicone implant rupture, but it is recommended to correct this issue with breast revision as soon as possible.
Capsular Contracture
After breast augmentation, a scar tissue capsule forms around the breast implants. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue thickens and constricts one or both implants, resulting in hard and misshapen breasts. Depending on the details of your condition, you may qualify for a capsulectomy (removal of the capsule) or a capsulotomy (releasing and partial removal of the capsule).
Breast Implant Rippling
When breast implants do not have adequate natural breast tissue coverage, a patient may notice visible folds or wrinkles on their breasts. This is also more likely to occur in patients who have saline implants. You can minimize the risk of visible rippling by having your saline implants replaced with silicone implants or by placing them beneath the breast muscle during a breast revision procedure.
Breast Implant Infection
Sometimes a breast augmentation patient develops an infection, either immediately after surgery or years later. Even if it does not begin in the breast area, the infection can travel throughout the body once it reaches the bloodstream. Patients must watch for any signs of infection in the body, as foreign objects (such as breast implants) have a higher risk of attracting infection. Typically, the implants are removed and may be replaced four to six months after the infection has cleared.
Breast Lift/Reduction Revision
Women who have experienced a breast lift or breast reduction procedure may be unhappy with unsightly results, such as noticeable breast asymmetry or nipple malposition. Those who opt for breast revision surgery can reshape the breast tissue, correct positioning issues, and tighten the skin for a youthful and balanced breast aesthetic. Sometimes, unsightly scars can be revised with surgery or laser treatments.
Concerns
Recovery
You will likely develop minor bruising and swelling after your breast revision surgery. Side effects can be minimized by wearing a surgical support bra during the initial stage of recovery. Resting in an elevated position also helps manage swelling and improve circulation. Many women can go back to work shortly after their procedure, but physical activity must be limited until cleared by your surgeon. Most exercises can be resumed after six weeks. Some swelling can remain for up to six months.
Scars
The extent of scarring after breast revision surgery will depend on the incision technique used. This procedure can often be performed through the previous incision site, preventing further scarring. Following all postoperative directions and not exposing your incisions to direct sunlight for the first year after surgery can help them fade faster.
Cost
The cost of your unique procedure will depend on a few factors. The type of implants you choose, surgical fees, and anesthesia fees will all affect the price. It is essential to remember that, while cost-efficiency is important, you should always select a breast surgeon who will deliver quality results. We offer various financing options for patients who qualify.
Pain
Some mild discomfort is expected during the first few days of recovery, but this can be alleviated with prescription pain medication. Patients may also experience some changes in sensation that are likely to normalize after several weeks.