Breast Revision
Because breast augmentation is one of the most popular and common plastic surgery procedures, it is at particular risk to lead to poor outcomes for a variety of different reasons, all of which share one important factor: disappointed patients. Fortunately, when patients have had either surgical complications or are simply dissatisfied with the results of prior operations, revisionary surgery can help restore a woman’s “’ideal” breasts. Such a transformation can be hugely satisfying for both the patient and the surgeon. In some cases, the change experienced by the patients of board-certified plastic surgeon Geo N. Tabbal, MD is felt to be life-altering.
Dr. Tabbal’s perspective on the role of plastic surgery within medicine and its responsibility to its patients remains, at its core, to be a “problem fixing” specialty. The ultimate goal of plastic surgery is the restoration or reconstruction of a patient’s appearance to better their self-image. This goal falls hand-in-hand for those women who seek revision or corrective breast surgery, and Dr. Tabbal is not only available, but eager to meet with patients to help them discuss their options for treatment. He looks forward to alleviating some of the confusion and unnecessary but understandable fear associated with the circumstances by which many patients seek consultation.
Dr. Tabbal is committed to helping patients along their journey towards an enhanced look and self-confidence. He recognizes that pursuing breast revision can be a personal choice and handles patient questions and concerns with compassion. He’s experienced and skilled in a variety of breast enhancement techniques, and he customizes treatment plans to reflect a patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals.
There are many reasons why a patient may need or choose to change out their breast implants. Breast revision surgery can help correct implant complications, better achieve the appearance a patient wants, or even improve the results of a breast augmentation procedure. The sections below highlight multiple aspects of the breast revision surgery process. Dr. Tabbal is happy to discuss any lingering questions about the procedure a patient may have, and encourages individuals to contact our office to schedule a consultation for more information.
What Is Breast Revision (or Corrective) Surgery?
Breast revision, sometimes referred to as corrective surgery, is designed to achieve a patient’s “ideal breast.” In most cases, revisionary surgery is performed for patients who wish to exchange their current breast implants for different ones whether due to size, shape, and/or style, or to switch from one type of implant to another (saline to silicone or vice-versa). Many women also seek to have their implants exchanged for newer implants to replace much older ones. This is most commonly seen in patients’ who have had implants that ruptured.
Dr. Tabbal often sees patients who need revision breast surgery, which can also be considered “corrective” in nature because they have had one or more previous operations where they experienced either surgical complications, dissatisfaction with the outcome, or both. Most commonly, these issues include:
- Visible implant “rippling” or wrinkling under the skin
- Capsular contracture which leads to asymmetric, malpositioned, firm, and even painful breast(s)
- Breast asymmetry including the size and shape of the breast tissue and/or the nipple/areolar complex
- Implant malposition, which occurs when one or both implants is not placed in its correct position and creates an unsightly breast aesthetic
- “Sagging” (otherwise referred to as ptosis) of the breast tissue and/or the underlying breast implant
How Does Dr. Tabbal Perform Breast Revision Surgery?
Frisco plastic surgeon Geo N. Tabbal, MD performs a variety of procedures using the latest techniques and methods during revision breast surgery to repair a previously performed breast augmentation. Each patient is unique and consequently, they deserve and need a tailored plan of care based as such. Dr. Tabbal commonly uses one or a combination of several of the following techniques:
- Performing the exchange of implants which include but aren’t limited to switching saline for silicone (or vice versa) or replacing implants with those of a different size (volume) or style (shape)
- Changing the “pocket” or position of the implant, often by moving implants which are above the muscle to under the muscle
- Altering the implant pocket, including tightening the existing pocket as well as opening “restricted” portions depending on the reason for operation
- Removal and/or release of scar tissue in the case of capsular contracture, which usually includes either the replacement of the affected implant or removal without replacement
- Altering the breast position and shape (including the nipple areolar position) with a breast lift
- Fat grafting in areas where implant visibility or breast shape are less than ideal
What Does Breast Revision Surgery Involve?
Oftentimes, breast revision surgery can be performed by utilizing the same incision areas from breast augmentation. Dr. Tabbal takes great care to minimize scarring should additional incisions need to be made. The breast revision procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and patients typically go home the same day.
There are different kinds of revision surgery and a patient’s specific needs may determine what type of procedure is performed. The two most common types are breast implant exchange and removal.
Breast Implant Exchange
A big reason why some patients choose to undergo breast revision is the desire to change out their breast implants. Dr. Tabbal utilizes saline, silicone, and highly-cohesive implants during a breast augmentation procedure, and patients may decide that they would prefer a different type of implant than the one they currently have. Some women also decide to switch out their breast implants because they want to increase or decrease their cup size. Occasionally, a complication may arise, like capsular contracture, that requires implants to be replaced by newer ones, or taken out completely.
Breast Implant Removal
The decision to pursue breast implant removal can be made for a variety of reasons, sometimes elective or in emergency cases. Some women no longer desire to have implants that increase their breast size and wish to return to their original cup size. Pregnancy and weight gain can potentially result in natural breast tissue becoming enlarged, leading to patients no longer needing or wanting their breast implants. Recurring capsular contractures, implant rupture, and implant exposure can also prompt a patient to want their breast implants to be completely
“Dr. Geo is more than a gifted doctor, he is an excellent artist! I highly recommend him and his wonderful staff. The office was clean, organized with beautiful art. So if you want the best service and have natural-looking results he is your doctor!”
What Can I Expect in My Breast Revision Recovery?
Patients may experience some tenderness, bruising, and mild swelling following breast revision surgery. While many are able to return to work in a week or two, recovery time may individually vary. Dr. Tabbal recommends that patients follow detailed post-operative instructions provided by our team to promote a safe and successful healing process.
For more information about breast revision surgery, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tabbal.