Breast Implant Revision
in Phoenix, AZ
Breast revision surgery is an excellent solution for women who would like to revise a previous breast procedure, whether because of disappointing results, a problem with the implant(s), or the age of the implants. If you’re seeking a breast implant revision in Phoenix, Regency Specialties can help. Our experienced plastic surgeons are committed to helping you achieve a look that feels right for your body and your goals.
Table Of Contents
What Is Breast Implant
Revision?
Breast implant revision is done to improve the breast shape and appearance for women who have had a previous breast procedure, and who may be experiencing:
- Implants older than ten years
- Capsular contracture
- Implant deflation or rupture
- Implant rippling or wrinkling
- Implant displacement
- Symmastia (implants joined together)
- Asymmetry due to a previous cosmetic or reconstructive breast surgery
Experience Matters
When it comes to a breast revision, the surgeon is required to deal with a host of complex issues, from scar tissue to the emotions of the patient. Because of this, choosing a plastic surgeon who is both skilled and experienced in this procedure is incredibly important. For those interested in breast revision in Surprise and Phoenix, choosing Regency Specialties guarantees the best in patient care and expertise.
Breast Implant Revision Options
Breast Implant Exchange
Breast implant exchange is one of the most common forms of revision surgery, often performed when patients wish to change the size, shape, or type of their implants. Whether you’re switching from saline implants to silicone implants or replacing old breast implants that no longer suit your goals, this procedure allows for significant customization. Some patients may also opt for implant exchange due to concerns about lifestyle changes or personal preference. Our surgeon will work closely with you to select the ideal implant material and profile that best suits your body and desired appearance.
Breast Implant Removal
For some women, removing their implants entirely is the best choice. Breast implant removal may be recommended due to complications, personal preference, or issues such as a saline or silicone implant rupture. In these cases, implant revision surgery is tailored to ensure a safe and aesthetically pleasing outcome, whether you desire complete removal or want to pair the procedure with a breast lift for added shape and support. At Regency Specialties, we guide patients through each step to ensure they feel informed and confident in their decision.
Capsulectomy
A capsulectomy is often necessary when a patient develops capsular contracture, a condition in which the scar tissue around an implant hardens, causing discomfort or distortion. This technique involves removing the capsule, or scar tissue, that formed around the implant during the healing process from a previous breast surgery. Capsulectomy can restore a softer, more natural feel and improve the overall shape of the breast. It may be combined with implant exchange or removal depending on the patient’s needs.
Mastopexy (Breast Lift)
A mastopexy, or breast lift, is sometimes recommended during implant revision to improve breast position and correct sagging. This form of plastic surgery elevates and reshapes the breast tissue, providing a more youthful contour, especially after implant removal or replacement. Over time, gravity, weight fluctuations, or aging implants can cause drooping, and a breast lift can restore perkiness and balance. Our surgeons tailor the lift technique to complement your existing anatomy and cosmetic goals.
Implant Repositioning
Implant repositioning is a specialized technique used to correct implant malposition, which can occur when an implant shifts out of its intended pocket. This issue may arise months or even years after a breast augmentation procedure and can result in asymmetry or discomfort. Repositioning the implant restores its proper placement, improving overall symmetry and aesthetics. In some cases, internal sutures or pocket adjustments are used to prevent future displacement and ensure long-term results.
What to Expect During
Your Consultation?
Consultation is where you can tell us exactly why you aren’t satisfied with the outcome of your previous breast procedure, and what your hopes are for the next one. You can voice your questions, concerns, and personal aesthetic goals, and we will take you step-by-step through the entire process, from preparing for the surgery to follow-ups.
Breast Implant Revision Procedure
Preparation
Before the breast revision procedure begins, a comprehensive surgical plan is developed based on the patient’s goals, current breast condition, and implant history. Pre-operative imaging and physical assessments are used to evaluate the implant pocket, skin elasticity, and the amount of natural breast tissue available.
Anesthesia
To ensure patient comfort and safety, general anesthesia is administered. This allows our surgical team to perform the revision thoroughly without causing pain or distress. Anesthesia is closely monitored throughout the surgical procedure.
Incisions
Incision placement depends on the specific needs of the revision. Common locations include along the inframammary fold, around the areola, or within previous surgical scars. The approach is selected to provide optimal access while minimizing additional scarring.
Implant Removal or Exchange
During the breast revision procedure, our surgeon may remove the existing implants due to complications, dissatisfaction, or age. If new implants are being placed, adjustments to the implant pocket are often necessary to accommodate changes in implant size or shape. This step ensures the new implants sit properly and achieve the desired breast size and contour.
Capsule Management
If scar tissue from previous surgeries has hardened or affected the implant’s position, a capsulectomy or capsulotomy may be performed to address this issue. This involves modifying or removing the capsule surrounding the implant to improve symmetry, softness, and implant stability.
Additional Procedures
Some revisions require supplementary techniques such as a breast lift to reposition sagging tissue or correct stretched skin. When natural breast tissue is insufficient to support an implant, internal reinforcement or staged reconstruction using tissue expanders may be required.
Closure
After the necessary corrections are completed, the incisions are closed with layered sutures to support healing and reduce tension on the skin. Surgical dressings are applied, and the chest is supported with a compression garment to maintain shape and minimize swelling.
Recovery After Breast
Implant Revision
Surgery
The period of downtime and details of recovery will vary for each patient, as each individual has a unique history and a customized treatment plan. However, it’s essential to take some time off work to recover properly. We will provide you with a more precise estimate of downtime and recovery details during your consultation, once we have examined and assessed your case. Here is a standard timeline:
First 24 Hours
Breast revision patients are closely monitored for a few hours for any immediate post-operative concerns. After some time in the recovery room, they return home to rest and heal. Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness are expected as the body responds to the surgical changes. Pain is typically managed with prescribed medications, and rest is essential to support the early stages of the healing process.
Week 1
Within the first week, discomfort begins to subside, though limited activity is recommended. A support bra is usually worn around the clock to reduce swelling and maintain implant positioning. Follow-up visits are scheduled to assess incision sites and ensure proper progress. Most women choose to take at least a week off from work and avoid lifting or engaging in sudden upper body movements during this time.
Weeks 2–3
By the second and third weeks, visible bruising continues to fade, and patients may resume light daily activities. The breast revision recovery process continues as tissues settle and incisions mature. Wearing a support bra remains essential for overall comfort and shaping. While walking is encouraged, all forms of strenuous exercise remain restricted.
Weeks 4–6
Between weeks four and six, the recovery period enters a more advanced phase. Swelling diminishes further, and improved shape and symmetry become more apparent. Many breast revision patients begin transitioning back to regular routines, though high-impact activities and upper body workouts are still generally avoided until cleared by our surgeon.
Weeks 6 and Beyond
After six weeks, most women choose to gradually return to full activity, including exercise, as long as the healing process has progressed without complications. Final results continue to develop over several months as residual swelling subsides and the implants fully settle into place. Long-term outcomes are supported by proper bra use and regular post-operative checkups.
Ready to get started?
Book your consultation today and let’s talk about how we can help you reach your goals.
Candidates for Breast
Implant Revision
Several situations may lead individuals to consider a breast implant revision. The decision is often prompted by changes in appearance, implant-related complications, or personal preferences. Regardless of the specific reasons for breast implant revision, identifying the right candidates helps ensure that the procedure addresses each patient’s unique goals. Typical candidates include:
- Women with capsular contracture
- Individuals with implant displacement or asymmetry
- Patients experiencing implant rupture or leakage
- Those with deflated breasts following augmentation
- Women seeking to change implant size, type, or profile
- Individuals unhappy with the results from a previous surgery
- Patients with aging or outdated implants
- Those experiencing pain or discomfort related to their implants
Key Benefits of a Breast Revision
Breast implant revision can address both physical concerns and aesthetic preferences, making it a valuable option for women who are no longer satisfied with the results of a previous breast surgery. This outpatient procedure is typically tailored to each patient’s needs through a custom treatment plan designed to achieve the desired outcome, whether that involves correction, enhancement, or removal of implants. We can:
- Replace or remove current implants
- Re-contour a breast that has been stretched out
- Remove the scar tissue that has formed around an implant
- Restore self-esteem and confidence
Cost of Breast
Implant Revision in
Phoenix, AZ
The cost of breast implant revision in Phoenix ranges from $6,000 to $16,000+, depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether new implants are used, and if additional techniques, such as a lift or capsulectomy, are required. Since each case is highly individualized, pricing can vary significantly based on the surgical approach and the patient’s goals. To receive an accurate estimate and personalized recommendations, it’s best to schedule a breast revision consultation with our surgeon.
Why Choose Regency
Specialties?
Considering a breast revision in Surprise, Buckeye, Phoenix, or the nearby areas? If so, put yourself in the skilled hands of our artistic and experienced professionals. We are a patient-centric, multi-specialty group delivering the highest quality treatments in dermatology, plastic surgery, breast oncology, reconstruction, and dermatopathology, all under one roof. We provide the highest level of care and availability, featuring trusted specialists in Arizona. You will feel completely welcome from the moment you enter our door to your very last follow-up appointment. To learn more or schedule a consultation, please call 623-243-9077 or contact us online.
Breast Revision FAQs
Is breast revision safe?
Yes, breast revision is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon. The safety of the procedure largely depends on the skill of the surgeon performing the procedure, the patient’s overall health, and adherence to post-operative guidelines to ensure proper healing. Complications are rare when appropriate techniques are used and recovery is carefully managed.
Is there a significant difference between breast augmentation and revision procedures?
Yes, breast augmentation and revision are two separate surgeries with different goals and complexities. Breast augmentation typically involves placing implants for the first time, while revision addresses existing implants, complications, or changes in preference. A revision procedure requires a thorough evaluation of the patient’s prior surgical results, the condition of the silicone gel implants (if present), and any anatomical changes. A customized surgical plan is then developed to correct issues and achieve improved outcomes.
What are the reasons women have breast revision surgery?
The reasons for wanting a breast revision come down to many factors. Maybe you’ve never been happy with the outcome of your first breast procedure. Maybe your implants have gotten old. Perhaps you have found your implants to be uncomfortable ever since your primary surgery. Possibly your implant has ruptured, or you can see it wrinkling beneath the skin. No matter what your reason for seeking breast revision may be, it’s a good reason—and we can help.
Can I increase or decrease my breast implant size during a revision breast surgery?
Yes, adjusting implant size is a common goal of revision breast augmentation surgery. Patients often choose to go larger or smaller depending on lifestyle changes, body changes, or dissatisfaction with their current breast size. Our surgeon will help determine the appropriate implant size to ensure a balanced, natural appearance.
Why does breast augmentation surgery with implants require periodic revisions?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and both silicone breast implants and saline breast implants may require replacement or removal over time. Reasons for revision include implant aging, rupture, changes in breast tissue, or cosmetic concerns that develop years after the initial procedure.
Can fat transfer be used during breast implant revision?
Yes, fat transfer may be used in breast implant revision to enhance contour, correct asymmetry, or add volume in targeted areas. The procedure uses fat harvested from the patient’s own body—typically from the abdomen or thighs—through liposuction, which is then purified and injected into the breast for a more natural result.
How to preserve breast augmentation results in the long term?
Maintaining a long-lasting breast appearance depends on healthy lifestyle habits, proper skin care, and selecting the right provider. Regular follow-ups with our board-certified plastic surgeon are crucial for monitoring the implant’s condition and addressing any concerns promptly. Wearing proper support and avoiding significant weight fluctuations can also contribute to long-term results.
