Signs You Need a Breast Implant Revision

Choosing to get a breast augmentation is a great first step toward finding confidence in your own skin, but over time a breast implant revision may be required to maintain your desired effects. Through a very similar process to augmentation, a revision can address multiple issues and concerns to leave you feeling more comfortable with your breasts. Check out the signs you may need a breast implant revision at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics

What is a breast implant revision? 

At its most basic level, a breast implant revision is a procedure performed to replace old breast implants with new ones. There are many reasons patients get implant revisions, from wanting a different size implant to fixing a rupture, but no matter the reason, there is a lot to understand about the procedure before choosing to move forward. 

Most breast implants last around ten to twenty years before you should schedule your replacement. It really depends on each individual’s situation.  As the years go by, implants may change form or shift within the chest cavity. These are not life-threatening conditions, but they can make life complicated, especially when you’re unhappy with the way your breasts look or feel. 

Because each case is different, there is no standard process for a breast implant revision. Depending on your unique needs, preferences, and reasons for seeking the revision, you’ll need a qualified team of experts prepared to personalize the process and give you the results you’re looking for. 

Signs You Need a Breast Implant Revision

Choosing to get a revision for your breast augmentation is an important step towards looking and feeling better in your own skin. Here are a few reasons you should consider scheduling your own revision with U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics.

Rupture

Although breast implant ruptures are not common or life-threatening, it is essential to get them fixed as soon as possible. Ruptures may occur due to blunt force or aging of the implant, both of which could weaken the shell structure and result in leakage. 

According to the FDA’s current guidelines, we recommend that our patients get regular MRI scans to determine the health of their breast implant once every two years. Doing so will ensure that your implant remains intact no matter which type you have. If we detect a rupture, we can quickly schedule a revision to reduce the leak’s impact. 

Implant Displacement

As you age, you can expect your implants to settle into slightly different locations in the chest wall as a part of the natural process. If you are experiencing major dislocation, however, it might be time for a breast implant revision at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics. Rotation or shifting of implants can change the look and feel of the breast tissue, causing anxiety for many patients. 

Typically, if implants move, they move outward, which is called lateral displacement. Occasionally, your implants may shift toward the middle of the chest or shift in a new direction, causing an unnatural shape that is best addressed with revision surgery. 

Pain or Discomfort

Breast implants should not cause pain or discomfort, so if your implants are hurting you, it’s time to speak to a professional. Implant pain could indicate several different issues, from displacement to pinched nerve endings or even ruptures. If you find that your implants are causing a noticeable disruption to your daily life, you should seek professional help. 

Size Change

Another reason to get a breast implant revision is aesthetics. If you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your breasts following an augmentation, even if it has been years since the procedure, schedule an appointment with your surgeon to discuss ways to improve your results. Whether you’re looking for larger or smaller breasts, a revision may help you find success. 

What to Expect from the Procedure

If you’re looking to get a breast implant revision, you already understand the general procedure – after all, you’ve already had an augmentation. The two surgeries are very similar, and you can expect to face a similar recovery process as well. 

Prepping for Surgery

Your first step is to book an appointment to discuss the changes you’d like to make with your surgeon. After determining whether you’re a good candidate for a revision, you’ll follow Dr. Tag’s specific instructions to prep for the procedure. Our team highly advises you avoid smoking or alcohol use several days or weeks prior to your surgery, as these activities could rule you out of the process altogether. 

Post-Op Recovery

You may expect a shorter recovery following your initial augmentation, but being prepared for the process is essential. Be sure to contact a family member or friend ahead of time to help with daily tasks for the first 48 hours post-op. We recommend taking off work for one or two weeks following the procedure to ensure proper healing time. You should also avoid physical activity for up to three weeks post-op to allow the stitches to heal and your implant to settle. 

Signs You Need a Breast Implant Revision

Find Your Best Self at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics

When it comes to finding cosmetic confidence, the only thing that matters is you. Whether you’re looking for a breast implant revision to replace your old implants or to change the shape to match your preferences, we’ve got you covered. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tag in the Baltimore area today!