When most plastic surgeons advise patients that expecting perfection is an unrealistic goal, how can you figure out whether you’re justified in pursuing breast implant revision surgery? Here are four questions that can help you decide.
1. Are you unhappy with your breast augmentation results?
Why are you considering breast implant revision in the first place? Do you feel that your implants are too low or too high? Have you noticed visible asymmetry between sides? First and foremost, breast augmentation is a surgery that should help you feel great about your appearance rather than self-conscious. If this basic goal isn’t met, you may want to consider a revision. However, any surgery carries risk and a mild degree of asymmetry is normal. A good plastic surgeon will help you to assess the risks and benefits of surgery.
2. Do you have size regrets?
Regrets about size are the most common reason to pursue revision surgery. If you feel like your implants are too small or too large even after ample time to get used to your new look—at least 6 months—then you might want to schedule a consultation with an experienced breast implant revision surgeon.
3. Are you concerned about capsular contracture?
Have you noticed a change in the consistency of one breast compared to the other following augmentation? Do your breasts feel overly firm, or even hard to the touch? Although scar tissue around your implant is normal and expected, moderate to severe scar tissue (capsular contracture) is a good reason to consider a second surgery.
4. Would you rather have a different implant type?
If you’re second-guessing your saline implants and think you might prefer silicone after all (or vice versa), then implant revision can be a great solution for making the switch. An emerging option is the use of fat transfer to replace implants. This may be a solution for those desiring implant removal without complete loss of volume. Generally speaking, this is a good choice for those with smaller implants (<300 cc) and desiring liposuction of undesirable fat collections in the abdomen, thighs, and hips. Changing implant types is very doable, so you shouldn’t hesitate to discuss your options with your surgeon.
Otto J. Placik, M.D. received his medical degree from Northwestern University where he also completed residencies in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery. He completed a fellowship in the aesthetic reconstruction of complex nasal and facial deformities at St. Joseph Hospital in Chicago and an additional fellowship in microvascular and hand surgery at Davies Medical Center, an affiliate of the University of California, San Francisco.
Dr. Placik is certified as a diplomate by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is an active member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is an active member of several local and national professional organizations. Dr. Placik is a member of the Northwestern University Division of Plastic Surgery Teaching Staff. He holds an academic appointment as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery (Plastic) at Northwestern University Medical School.