Breast Implant Revision

You won’t feel any pain during the procedure since general anesthesia is used; however, mild to moderate discomfort is common during the initial recovery period. You may experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness around the chest area, particularly if implant adjustments, scar tissue removal, or pocket modifications were involved. Dr. Lugo will provide pain management options, including prescribed or over-the-counter medications, to keep discomfort under control. Wearing a compression garment or surgical bra also helps minimize swelling and provides essential support during the healing process. Most patients find that pain significantly improves after the first week, with continued relief as the body adjusts to the changes. 

The total number of appointments depends on the complexity of your revision and the healing progress. You can expect to have:

• Consultation Appointment: Your first visit will involve discussing your concerns, reviewing surgical options, and outlining a treatment plan.
• Pre-Operative Appointment: Scheduled before surgery, this appointment includes a final review of your plan, medical clearance if needed, and detailed instructions for preparation.
• Surgery Day: The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours to complete under general anesthesia.
• Post-Operative Follow-Ups: Most patients have at least two to three follow-up visits to monitor healing, remove sutures (if necessary), and ensure optimal results. Additional appointments may be scheduled based on individual healing progress.

Most swelling will subside gradually within 6 to 8 weeks, and implants (if replaced) will settle into their natural position over several months. By the 3- to 6-month mark, the majority of swelling will have resolved, revealing a more refined and natural-looking result. However, final results may take up to a year as residual swelling diminishes and your breast tissue fully adjusts to the revision.

A breast lift is one of the most common pairings with implant revision surgery, as it can restore a more youthful shape and position to the breasts, especially if sagging has occurred over time. Some patients also opt for a fat transfer to refine their breast shape or enhance volume in specific areas, particularly if they are switching to smaller implants or removing them altogether. Beyond breast-focused procedures, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is another popular combination, especially for patients looking to restore their body contours after pregnancy or significant weight loss.  

One of the most common concerns is infection or poor wound healing, which, while rare, may require antibiotic treatment or additional care. Patients undergoing revision for capsular contracture should be aware that there is a small chance of recurrence, even after corrective surgery. Additionally, implant malposition or shifting can occasionally occur, resulting in asymmetry that may necessitate further adjustment. Dr. Lugo will discuss these risks in detail during your consultation and provide personalized pre- and post-operative care instructions to help ensure the best and safest outcome.

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to rejuvenate the size and shape of the breasts. It typically involves inserting breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.

There are two main versions of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are composed of sterile saltwater, while silicone implants are engineered with cohesive silicone gel. Both device types have a silicone outer shell. The new generation of silicone gel implants are all “gummy bear” implants.

Silicone implants may feel more authentic and are less likely to ripple or wrinkle. They also feel lighter than saline implants, which are filled post-insertion, allowing for a smaller scar. Saline implants are often more affordable than silicone implants.

Most patients can return to their everyday activities within a week or so after surgery; however, swelling and bruising can take several weeks to subside fully. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.

Breast lift surgery, also called mastopexy, is performed to lift and reshape sagging breasts. It involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned, and the areolas are made smaller. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.

A breast lift and a breast reduction are very similar procedures. Both lift the breast and remove breast tissue. The only difference is that more breast tissue is removed during a breast reduction.

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant surgery carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and poor anesthesia reactions. There is also a risk of capsular contracture, which is when scar tissue emerges around the implant, causing it to harden and potentially distort the breast shape.

Breast implants can make mammogram outcomes more difficult to interpret, but specialized mammography techniques can be used to obtain clear images of the breast tissue. Patients should inform their mammography technician about their implants before the procedure.