Breast Revision in Austin, Tx

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, and it can produce beautiful and natural outcomes. However, sometimes a woman can be unhappy with the results of her breast surgery and may require a breast revision procedure. It is important to note that not all revision surgeries are due to doctor error. While there are a few surgeries that do end with a poor outcome, there are women who could later desire a different sized implant. In addition, others may have a problem and ask to have the breast implant revised or taken out altogether. There are also some women who could require revision surgery for a specific condition. Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andre Y. Levesque provides breast revision surgery and gives patients a thorough assessment at his practice, Levesque Plastic Surgery, so that the appropriate outcome is achieved. Contact our Austin, TX cosmetic office if you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation.

If you have any problems (whether cosmetic or medical) with your breast implants, please schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Levesque to talk about your goals and to create your unique surgical plan. Whether it is scarring, breast sag, rippling, or asymmetry, revision surgery can help repair the issue and create a healthier, more attractive outcome. This procedure can also help if you would like to change size, implant styles, or address any other aspect of your breasts.

Secondary breast augmentation serves to remove an implant that is not functioning properly or is no longer wanted. Breast revision surgery may also be performed to switch implant size or go from silicone to saline inserts (or vice versa). There are a few other common cases for which a revision procedure could be wanted:

Asymmetry occurs when the breast implants look out of balance. This is often because of a wrongly sized implant, drooping on one side, or another condition that can possibly cause asymmetry. A thorough assessment will need to be performed to determine the cause of the asymmetry. From there, surgery will be implemented to correct the flaw. Finally, new implants are inserted to attain a balanced appearance.

Bottoming out is a condition that may happen when one or both breasts drop too low, or "bottom out." In many cases, this is a positioning and placement error from the first operation. To fix this, a new placement strategy may be recommended. Tissue grafting could be required if necessary. From there, a pocket will be produced surgically to securely fit the new implant. For most women, switching from a saline to a silicone implant can rectify the effects of bottoming out.

There are times when revision surgery is as simple as receiving a larger or smaller sized implant. With the original surgery, you may have chosen to go too small or big. A new breast implant size can be inserted to achieve the desired look.

This is the term used for an area of hardening because of scarring, occurring when the smooth tissue around the breast implant becomes hard and thickens. While breast implants do result in some internal hardening, most individuals will never realize this. In some instances, the scarring could change the implant placement, which could change the implant function and create an undesirable outcome. Scar revision surgery would be needed if this situation arises.

Rippling occurs when there are noticeable lines and ripples beneath the skin. This condition generally forms around the edge of the implant. Rippling is more common in females who are relatively thin. Often, this condition can be repaired by simply changing from a saline to a silicone implant.

Although this is uncommon, implant rupture could occur. If a saline breast implant ruptures, deflation will take place rather quickly and a visible change in appearance will be noticed. On the other hand, if an implant made of silicone ruptures, it is only caught through an MRI. In either case, if a rupture happens, a corrective treatment will be required immediately.

This condition happens when implants are positioned too close together. In most cases, this is because the implant selected was the wrong shape, size, or width. A secondary procedure will correct this issue. For this revision surgery, an implant that is more acceptable for your body and overall proportions will be selected.

After your surgery and an observation period, you will be sent home to start your recovery. The overall recovery process will vary based on the complexity of your surgery. Any type of revision that requires grafting or complex reconstruction will result in a longer recovery. This could take up to several months. You should begin to see your results once the swelling disappears. Dr. Levesque or a member of his team will go over what you can expect to see during your recovery, and he can give you suggestions to help speed your healing along as well. You should attend follow-up appointments as directed so we can assess your recovery and results. See our Before and After photos. 

How much does breast revision surgery cost?
The cost of breast revision surgery can vary greatly depending on what needs to be done. During your consultation, Dr. Levesque will listen to your concerns and goals before performing a physical exam to assess your implants. From there, he can explain your options before developing your program. The cost of revision surgery will depend on the extent of the procedure, as well as what you choose for your new implants. It is better to select an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, like Dr. Levesque, to ensure that your revision surgery is performed safely and effectively. To help make your procedure easy to afford, Levesque Plastic Surgery accepts several payment methods. We can also help you find low-interest financing.

What if Dr. Levesque wasn't my original surgeon?
Dr. Levesque can perform your revision surgery even if he wasn't the surgeon who performed your initial breast augmentation. Breast revision surgery can be more complex than the original augmentation if you desire dramatic changes or have problems. Dr. Levesque also invites his patients to return to Levesque Plastic Surgery for breast revision after their implant surgery if they have a problem or want a change.

What about loose skin?
If you are having your implants removed or are changing to a significantly smaller size of implants, you may need to have excess skin removed during your surgery. After listening to your goals and assessing your current implants, Dr. Levesque can discuss the need for a breast lift to remove loose skin. If you lose a significant amount of weight, become pregnant, or breastfeed after augmentation surgery, a revision with a lift can help you get better results.

Will there be new scars?
If possible, Dr. Levesque will make incisions for revision surgery in the original augmentation incisions. However, if this is not possible, he will place the new incisions where they will be less visible. Breast revision surgery typically employs a transaxillary incision (through the armpit), a periareolar incision (on the lower edge of the areola), an inframammary incision (under the fold of the breast), or TUBA incision (through the belly button). Dr. Levesque or a member of his team will go over scar care management instructions so your incisions heal properly and blend well into your skin.

Do I have to change my implants?
While implants can last a long time, they will need to be replaced at some point. After augmentation surgery, it is important to have your implants checked regularly. This will allow Dr. Levesque to help you decide when your implants should be replaced. With so many advancements taking place in the medical field every day, it could be to your benefit to consider the newest implant shapes and types to achieve your best look during breast revision surgery.

Breast implant revision surgery is a custom treatment tailored for your needs by board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andre Y. Levesque. If you're displeased with your breast implants or desire a different outcome, we welcome you to contact our Austin, TX office to book your appointment at Levesque Plastic Surgery. There are many factors to consider when it comes to undergoing breast revision. Dr. Levesque will provide you with a full physical examination, give you revision recommendations, and help set realistic goals and expectations.