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Breast surgeries can have a significant impact on a woman's self-esteem and confidence. Whether it's breast augmentation, reduction, or reconstruction, these surgeries aim to improve the appearance and function of the breasts. However, in some cases, the results may not meet the patient's expectations, or the results can change over time. Here are five signs that indicate you may need your breast surgery revised:
Persistent pain or discomfort in breast implants may point to a number of possible issues that may require breast implant revision surgery. Some of these issues include:
In patients with breast implants, pain may be caused by capsular contracture. If the implants are silicone, this may signify a ruptured or leaking implant. It can also happen after trauma such as a car accident.
Moreover, even if the implant is not damaged, some women may find that the implant's size or placement causes significant discomfort that affects their daily lives. It's essential to note that unrelenting pain or discomfort is not typical after breast augmentation surgery. Therefore, patients should schedule an appointment with their surgeon if they are experiencing any such symptoms.
Breast implant rupture can occur due to physical trauma such as a car accident or by natural wear and tear over time, which may weaken the implant shell.
If there's a rupture in a saline implant, it causes the affected breast to deflate immediately, making it easier to diagnose. Since the saline implant is filled with IV solution, the body will easily absorb the fluid.
On the other hand, ruptures in silicone implants are harder to diagnose without an ultrasound or MRI scan. The reason for this is that the silicone gel often leaks out gradually and is confined in the breast implant capsule, making it challenging to identify the rupture. This is also sometimes diagnosed on yearly mammogram.
Although the rupture of a breast implant is not a life-threatening condition, it is essential to have the damaged implant removed. This will help prevent unwanted complications such as the formation of excessive internal scar tissue.
Breast implants may settle into a slightly different position over time, which is a normal occurrence as our body tissues stretch. However, it is not typical for the implants to shift dramatically to a different location on the chest wall. This phenomenon is referred to as implant displacement, and it can show up in various ways.
Implant flipping can result from an excessively large implant pocket where the implant flips front to back. A flipped round implant is hard for most patients to detect, but in some patients it may be visible as an implant that just doesn’t look right.
Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs when scar tissue forms around the breast implants. The formation of scar tissue around implants is a standard part of the healing process. In some cases, the body produces excessive scar tissue to isolate the implant, resulting in a hard, distorted, and uncomfortable appearance. Revision surgery can help correct this issue.
Capsular contracture is graded into four categories - normal to severe.
Patients with either grade three or four usually require breast implant revision surgery.
While most patients are satisfied with the outcome of their breast augmentation, some may desire a different size of implant - either bigger or smaller or even for the implants to be removed all-together.
If you want to alter the size of your breast implants, it is advisable to wait for at least a year after the initial surgery, as recommended by most plastic surgeons. This period will enable your body to heal fully and the implants to settle into their final position before making any significant changes.
In conclusion, breast surgeries are complex procedures that require skill and experience. If you're experiencing any of the signs above, consult with your surgeon to discuss the best course of action. With appropriate care, revision surgery can help you achieve the desired look and feel of your breasts.
If you are looking to schedule a consultation reach out to us at 713.275.9908 or schedule online here.
double board certified plastic surgeon
Dr. Ryan Couvillion is an experienced Houston, TX plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures for the breasts, body, face, and skin. A native Houstonian, Dr. Couvillion has been recognized for his passion and dedication to achieving the best possible results for his patients. His drive to pursue training in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery began at a young age, and he is honored to have been mentored by some of the nation’s most recognized surgeons.
For every aesthetic need, Dr. Couvillion incorporates a patient-centered approach with everyone he encounters and makes each client a part of the decision-making process. According to Dr. Couvillion, "The most gratifying part of my day is when I get to talk to a happy patient. It is such a privilege to care for my patients and give them the results they want."
Learn more here.
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