7 Key Indicators It’s Time for Your Breast Implant Revision
Are you considering breast implant revision? While breast implants are designed to last, there are various reasons why patients may need to replace them sooner than the expected 10-20 years. If your breast augmentation hasn’t provided the natural look you desired, or if you’re experiencing complications, a breast implant revision could be the solution. In this article, we will explore seven common signs that indicate you may need revisionary surgery.
1. Persistent Pain or Discomfort
If your breast implants are causing ongoing pain or discomfort, it may signal several underlying issues that require attention. Possible causes include:
- Capsular contracture
- Damaged lymph nodes
- Developing seroma
- Pinched nerves
- Poor implant placement
For silicone implants, pain could indicate a rupture or leakage. Regardless of the cause, persistent discomfort is not normal after breast augmentation, and it’s essential to consult a qualified professional.
2. Implant Rupture
Ruptures can occur due to sudden impacts or the aging of the implant shell. For saline implants, rupture leads to immediate deflation, making it easy to identify. However, silicone implant ruptures are harder to diagnose and may require an ultrasound or MRI. While not life-threatening, removing a ruptured implant is crucial to prevent infection and excessive scar tissue development.
3. Bottoming Out of the Implant
When breast tissue cannot support the weight of the implant, it may “bottom out,” causing the implant to drop below the breast crease. This issue can arise from:
- Large or heavy implants
- Post-surgery pregnancies
- Skin laxity due to aging
Unlike natural drooping, bottomed-out implants can result in the upward movement of the nipples, which may be visually noticeable.
4. Implant Movement or Rotation
While it’s normal for implants to settle into a slightly different position over time, significant movement or rotation is not. This condition, known as implant displacement, can occur due to:
- An overly large implant pocket
- Symmastia (implants merging in the center)
- Rotation of teardrop implants
Significant displacement can lead to an unnatural appearance and discomfort.
5. Change in Implant Shape
Changes in implant shape can arise from various complications, including rupture, shifting, or displacement. These changes often occur asymmetrically, leading to emotional distress and challenges in finding suitable bras and clothing.
6. Capsular Contracture
While some scar tissue formation is a normal part of healing, excessive scar tissue can lead to capsular contracture. This condition can affect the aesthetic outcome of the augmentation procedure. There are four grades of capsular contracture:
- Grade 1: Normal appearance, asymptomatic
- Grade 2: Minor cosmetic changes, firmer feel
- Grade 3: Hard, misshapen appearance
- Grade 4: Severe hardness, unnatural shape, and pain
Patients experiencing grades three or four typically require revision surgery.
7. Dissatisfaction with Breast Size
Though many patients are satisfied with their breast augmentation results, some may wish to adjust the size of their implants. If you’re considering a size change, it’s generally advised to wait at least a year post-surgery to allow your body to heal and your implants to settle.
Recognizing these signs can help you make informed decisions about your breast augmentation journey. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a qualified professional to discuss your options.
