Breast Implant Revision

What is breast implant revision?

Breast implant revision is the surgery performed to remove or replace your breast implants.  This surgery will require you undergoing a general anaesthetic and a reopening of your scar.

Your breast implants can be removed via a partial or full capsulectomy.  A capsulectomy is the removal of the scar tissue that has formed around the breast implant.  Depending on the original placement of your implants (submuscular or sub-glandular or between the two) will dictate how much capsule can be removed.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices.  At some future point, they will need to be removed or replaced.  When entering into the decision to have breast implants, it’s essential to keep this in mind.

You should be keeping a careful watch on your breast implants to look out for any changes.  If you notice swelling or redness see your GP for further investigation.

Is it right for me?

The decision to have any surgery should not be taken lightly as every time you undergo anaesthesia there is a risk.  Also, all surgery, no matter how quick the time on table, requires you to rest and recover to ensure the optimal healing of your new scars.  However, if you believe your life will be positively affected by the removal of your breast implants, then finding a surgeon who can talk you through your options should be your priority.

These days, there are options for autologous fat transfer to the breast to help keep some of the volume lost from the removal of your breast implants.  During the consultation, your surgeon will be able to talk you through what options are available to you to ensure you are clear about what the expected size and outcome will be from the explant.

Potential complications

All surgery comes with some degree of risk. For example, bleeding and infection are possible. Your specialist plastic surgeon will fully explain potential complications during the consultation process and commit to supporting you during recovery. 

An important question to ask your specialist plastic surgeon is whether or not they follow the 14-Point-Plan? Learn more. By seeking out the services of a member of ASAPS, your surgery will be performed in an accredited facility. This is a facility that meets the required standards of sterilisation and infection control.  In Australia, these are the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (NS & QHS Standards).  On this basis, patients should avoid having breast surgery in facilities that cannot provide evidence of meeting the NS & QHS Standards. It’s important to note that patients who have surgery performed overseas, particularly in the developing world, are taking a significant risk as they cannot guarantee the sterility standards of the facility.

SURGERY & RECOVERY

During surgery

Your time in surgery may vary according to your needs and the specifics of the procedures being performed. Your specialist plastic surgeon will explain everything to you during your consultations.

Recovery

One of the most important reasons for choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is that they will be by your side throughout the recovery process, ready to reassure and support you at every stage. Ask your specialist plastic surgeon what recovery will involve for you.