03 9034 7738
Schedule a Consultation
03 9034 7738

Breast Revision in Melbourne

Some patients require revision of their previous breast augmentation. This may be due to a concern about the implant, changes in the shape of the breast, or wanting to change the implant size. Breast Revision Surgery is performed to remove and replace breast implants for a variety of reasons. Dr Thomas has a particular interest in revision breast augmentation surgery.

The appearance of breast implants may change after a number of years due to age and time, weight loss or weight gain. Some women, after their initial surgery, discover that they have not selected the right implant size for their goals. Breast Revision can also improve the breast appearance by removing scar tissue, re-positioning the implant or even replacing it with a different shape, size or texture implant.

CANDIDATES FOR BREAST REVISION

  • Women who have had implants for 10 to 20 years
  • Women experiencing changes in the breast shape
  • Women with concerns about the type of implants
  • The implants hardening, leaking or rupturing
  • Women seeking to adjust the size of their implants
  • Women whose implants have shifted or are rippling or wrinkling

About the Procedure

For this second time around procedure, the selection of a fully qualified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon such as Dr Thomas is imperative. Revision surgery is more complex than Breast Augmentation.

The incision will most likely be made at the site of the original procedure, the implant will be removed, the current pocket modified or a new pocket created, and a new implant inserted. This is the general procedural process, however depending on the purpose for the revision, the procedure may differ.

Stitches will be placed internally and are dissolvable to minimise scarring.

See Before and Afters

What to Expect After Surgery

Swelling, bruising and changes in skin sensitivity are a common side effect following this surgery. You may be required to stay overnight in hospital for monitoring and your total recovery can take several weeks. Surgical tape will provide compression to the area after the surgery. 

During your second week of recovery, Dr Thomas will assess whether you can change to an approved support bra, worn day and night for three to six weeks. A quality support bra is recommended even after recovery to reduce sagging. Exercise and lifting should be avoided for four weeks. At six weeks post-surgery, you should be able to return to normal activity.

Risks and Complications of Breast Revision

Complications can arise after breast revision. Some of the risks and adverse outcomes of secondary breast surgery include:

  • Infection 
  • Blood clot 
  • Build-up of fluid beneath the skin
  • Loss of nipple sensation 
  • Implant-related complications (such as capsular contracture or rupture)
  • Excess scar tissue formation 
  • Asymmetry regarding shape, size or position of the breasts
  • Breast tissue atrophy or necrosis

Activity Guidelines After Breast Revision Surgery

Breast revision is often a more intricate procedure than the primary breast implant surgery. It is critical to follow the post-operative instructions to minimise the risks. The approximate recovery timeline below will be fully discussed prior to your surgery.

Guidelines:

Days 1-3

  • Immediately after surgery, your incisions will be dressed and you may be placed in a special surgical support garment.
  • A surgical drain may be placed under the skin temporarily to drain excess fluid.
  • Expect to feel swollen, sore and fatigued at first. Pain medication can help you manage discomfort.
  • Avoid all exercise for 2 days post-surgery.

Days 4-7

  • Start to introduce gentle movement, such as walking at a leisurely pace, to encourage blood flow.
  • Avoid sweating and excessive shoulder movement (especially overhead and sideways movements) as you resume light activities.
  • Some patients return to work after one week.

Weeks 2-3

  • If you require or prefer a longer recovery at home, you will likely be able to return to work at the two-week mark.
  • During this period, any remaining bruising, swelling, numbness or tingling should decrease.
  • Avoid any activities and environments, such as hot tubs/spas and pools, that could contaminate the incisions.
  • You may resume light lower body exercise, but should continue to avoid vigorous activities, heavy lifting and excessive bending.
  • Dr Thomas may ​​clear you to change from the compression garment to an approved support bra

Weeks 4-6

  • Light and moderate exercise is acceptable during this period, provided you do not feel pain or discomfort. 
  • At six weeks post-procedure, you may be able to resume normal activity and wearing normal bras.

Weeks 7 and Beyond 

  • Scars will continue to fade and soften for up to one year post-surgery

Breast Revision Results

The initial results of your breast revision surgery may be visible immediately. However, your body will need more time to fully heal and adjust to the changes. The final result may not be realised for several months. 

The longevity of breast implant revision results can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the implants and the overall health and lifestyle of the patient. Breast implants can often last for years, but they are not designed to be permanent. Your implants may need to be replaced or revised again if you experience complications or a change in aesthetic preferences.

A Note on Results

The results of any medical treatment, aesthetic or otherwise, will affect patients differently based on various individual, genetic, environmental, diet, exercise and other factors. For that reason, you should always expect to see some variance between the results featured and the results you can achieve. What works for one person may not work for another, and each patient’s unique needs and expectations must be considered when determining the best course of action. 

Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced medical professional who can help to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific circumstances. It is also important to understand that breast revision is not a quick fix and requires patience and commitment to achieve the desired results.