Reasons Why Revision May Be Required after Breast Implant Surgery
Although most patients obtain lasting, rewarding results with cosmetic surgery, there are always exceptions. For patients whose breast augmentation surgery did not turned out as expected or whose implants have become affected by capsular contracture or rippling, revision surgery in Tijuana might be the best way to finally achieve desired results.
How Might Implants Fail?
Depending on the type of implant and procedure, complications after surgery vary from patient to patient. Not all complications pose a risk to patients’ health, but most of them have undesirable side effects on an implant’s appearance. Here are a few potential issues that might warrant a follow-up procedure.
- Capsular contracture: This is one of the most common problems with breast implants. After an implant procedure, scar tissue ay develop around the breast implant, gradually tightening and constricting the implant. By undergoing a capsulectomy or capsulotomy, patients can relieve the tension in their breasts and, if needed, replace the implant. The risk of capsular contracture is higher for patients with silicone implants and those who have implants placed above the breast muscle.
- Ruptured implants: Breast implants will eventually rupture or leak. This is easiest to spot with saline implants, as they deflate within the breast once ruptured. Saline is safely absorbed by the body, posing no risk to the patient. Although silicone ruptures are not as obvious, they may create small lumps within the breast, which are often tender to the touch. It is recommended that any rips in an implant be addressed as soon as possible, and this is especially true for avoiding potential complications with silicone.
- Undesired movement of the implant: It is possible, though rare, for implants to slide out of place over time, resulting in discomfort and skin that hangs disproportionately above or below the implant. The difficulty of revision depends on where the implant has moved, but most cases are corrected with implant replacement, tightening of the breast pocket, and/or capsulectomy.
Patients Who Desire New Implants
Not every implant revision is the result of complications. Many patients prefer to change the size of their breasts or improve upon the results of a previous procedure. This may be due to age, a change in preference, or dissatisfaction with an initial implant surgery.
- Size change: Some patients choose to undergo secondary breast augmentation to increase the size of their implants. Other patients decide that a smaller size would be more appropriate for them. These decisions are not always immediate, but rather the result of changes to one’s body and attitude. When deciding which size is best suited for you, speak with your doctor to understand the effect different implants will have on your body.
- Age: As we age, our bodies change. This includes the way a woman’s breasts look, even with implants. It’s not uncommon for patients to request new implants or a breast lift to counteract sagging or signs of aging.
Considering an Implant Revision Procedure?
Whether your implants are causing complications or you simply want to enhance their results, plastic surgeon Rodolfo Castillo Calderón would be happy to speak with you about your options. For a procedure that is meant to elevate a patient’s looks and confidence, it is important to maintain your satisfaction. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and learn how we can meet your cosmetic needs.