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BREAST LIFT (MASTOPEXY)

Breast revision or Breast Implant Revision surgery is to replace old breast implants with new implants.  There are several reasons why one would need this type of surgery which we’ll cover in this article along with how to prepare, how it works, recovery, costs, and much more.

What is breast implant revision surgery?

The goal of breast implant revision surgery is to replace old breast implants with new implants. Often the goal is also to change or improve the appearance of the breasts while updating the implant material, which could include:

  • A concurrent breast lift or reduction
  • Reshaping the breast implant pocket to reposition the implant on the chest
  • Either increasing or decreasing the size, shape or style of the breast implant

The desire to have breast implant revision surgery can be because of any of the following reasons:

  • Desire to change the size of the breasts
  • Pain from capsular contracture
  • Concern about rupture or migration of implant
  • Change from saline to silicone or different style of implant

Over time, breast implants can change shape or size, and the overlying breast tissue can also change, creating an appearance or feel to the breast that is less desirable than the original result. Also, many breast implants have a lifetime warranty on the actual implant device, but after ten years the costs associated with having surgery to replace the implants are no longer covered. Because of this, many women will elect to replace or update their breast implants at or around the 10-year time frame.

Breast implant revision surgery is not a standard or routine procedure and needs to be tailored specifically to the patient’s goals and desires. Therefore, this surgery should be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who is well-trained and experienced in all types of breast surgery and who will listen to the patient’s goals and desires and will develop a surgical plan specifically to address all of the issues at the time of surgery.

Who is a good candidate for breast implant revision?

Breast implant revision surgery is intended for patients who have had a breast augmentation in the past and are now unhappy with their implants or concerned about the condition of their implants. This procedure can address those concerns by replacing the existing implants with new implants.

Who is a good candidate for breast implant revision surgery?

In general, you may be a good breast implant revision candidate if:

  • You are unhappy with size, shape or appearance of your breast implants
  • You are concerned about the integrity or condition of your implants
  • You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
  • You have realistic expectations
  • You are a nonsmoker

If you’re considering surgery, spend some time reviewing breast implant revision surgery photos and learning about what to expect during recovery. Preparation ahead of time helps patients have reasonable expectations and a smoother recovery.

How much does breast implant revision cost?

A plastic surgeon’s cost for breast implant revision surgery may vary based on his or her experience as well as geographic location. In some instances, health insurance may cover breast implant revision surgery. Also, in some instances, the implant warranty will cover some of the costs associated with this surgery.

Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans for breast implant revision surgery in instances where health insurance does not cover it, so be sure to ask.  Visit our financing options page to learn about the payment options available through our office.

Breast implant revision costs may include:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Hospital or surgical facility costs
  • Implant costs
  • Anesthesia fees
  • Prescriptions for medication
  • Post-surgery garments
  • Medical tests and x-rays

When choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon for breast implant revision surgery, remember that the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery.

What should I expect during a consultation for breast implant revision?

During your breast implant revision consultation, be prepared to discuss:

  • Your surgical goals
  • Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
  • Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
  • Previous surgeries

Your plastic surgeon will also:

  • Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
  • Examine your existing breast implants
  • Take photographs
  • Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
  • Discuss likely outcomes of breast implant revision surgery and any risks or potential complications

The success and safety of your breast implant revision procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon questions. It’s very important to understand all aspects of your breast implant revision surgery. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

Dr. William Rahal is a board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Beverly Hills, CA.  Give his office a call and setup a consultation at (424) 512-1902.