Breast Revision / Implant Removal
Since their introduction in the 1960s, breast implants have helped millions of women achieve their desired breast appearance and have played an important role in breast reconstruction. Whether chosen for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes, implants can help create natural-looking breast shape, proportion, and symmetry. Over time, however, breast implants and the surrounding breast tissue can change. Implants may eventually need to be replaced and additional surgery may be desired to address changes in breast shape, position, symmetry, or appearance.
Breast revision surgery requires a specialized understanding of both the breast tissue and the changes that can occur after previous surgery. With extensive experience performing breast reconstruction and revision procedures, Dr. Mancoll understands the complexities involved in revising the breast. Whether a patient is unhappy with the results of a previous procedure or her breasts have changed over time, he takes an individualized approach to help achieve each patient's unique goals.
Ideal Candidate
Breast revision surgery requires a thoughtful approach, as each patient’s circumstances and goals are different. Patients considering revision should be in good physical and emotional health and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. Dr. Mancoll welcomes the opportunity to evaluate patients who are unhappy with the results of previous breast surgery or who are seeking to address changes in the breasts that have occurred over time.
Procedure
The surgical options for breast revision vary considerably depending on each patient’s anatomy, previous surgery, and individual goals. The process begins with Dr. Mancoll gaining a clear understanding of the look and shape each patient hopes to achieve. A thorough consultation and careful planning are essential to determine the approach that will best meet each patient's needs. Breast revision sugery is performed on an outpatient basis with the patient under deep sedation or general anesthesia.
Costs
There are several factors that determine the total cost of breast revision surgery, including:
- Facility fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Surgical fees
- Prescriptions for medication
- Post-surgery garments
Unless the patient has had breast implants placed for breast cancer, most revision surgery is still considered cosmetic. Our surgical coordinator can discuss the costs with you after a comprehensive exam and once a surgical plan has been developed. For those patients who had breast implants placed for cosmetic reasons many years ago, it is possible that insurance may pay to have the failed device removed, but rarely will it pay for a new implant or another revisionary type of surgery beyond removing the old device.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with breast revision surgery, such as scars, infection, bleeding, asymmetries, postoperative discomfort, and adverse reaction to anesthesia. Although significant complications are uncommon, patients should understand that any surgery, performed for any reason, has risks and should not be taken lightly.
Dr. Mancoll takes pride in his ability to communicate openly with his patients and tailor each discussion to their individual needs. He will take the time needed to help you understand your procedure, what to expect, and the options available to you. You are encouraged to ask questions throughout the process. If there is ever anything you do not fully understand, he is always happy to explain it again to make sure you feel comfortable and cofident about your procedure.
Recovery
Surgical compression garments are recommended for 4 to 6 weeks, and high-impact activity should be limited during that time. The use of surgical drains varies from case to case. The patient can return to desk-type work within 5 to 7 days. Bruising and swelling, mild asymmetries, post-op pain, and discomfort are all normal parts of the healing process. Pain and discomfort can be typically be alleviated with prescribed pain medication.
Results
Patients can expect to see a significant improvement in the look, shape, feel, and symmetry of their breasts after breast revision surgery. Women often find that after breast revision surgery they have renewed self-confidence.
We welcome you to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. John Mancoll by calling Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery at (757) 305-9185 or filling out our online contact form. Dr. Mancoll has been voted by his peers as one of Coastal Virginia’s Top Plastic Surgeons. He is devoted to helping each individual patient achieve the best results possible.
