Breast Implant Revision and Removal

You may be a good candidate for a breast revision for a multitude of reasons, such as:

• Patient preference: if you are unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of your breasts
• Bottom out: when the implant sags, leaving the nipple in a high location
• Rupture: if an implant leaks or ruptures
• Capsular contracture: when significant scar tissue builds up around the implant
• Rippling: in the case that ripples are seen on the surface of the skin
• Symmastia: where breast implants merge together across the center of the chest

At your breast implant revision consultation at Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, Dr. Tarak H. Patel will address any of your questions, evaluate your physical health, assess your medical history, and review your expected outcomes. He will also conduct an examination of your current breast implants and discuss the variables that may affect the procedure. Together, you will craft a customized treatment plan that takes into consideration your expectations and any potential complications.

In addition, Dr. Patel will explain the risks and limitations of the procedure, as well as the expected scarring. He will also review the anesthesia that will be used, the facility, and the costs associated with the surgery. Dr. Patel is dedicated to providing his patients with high-quality, individualized care throughout the entire surgical process, beginning at the initial consultation.

Your breast implant revision surgery will vary based on what type of incision you received in your initial procedure, if you are removing or replacing your implants, and the type of implant you received, including:

• Implant shape: round or contoured
• Implant location: in front or beyond the pectoral muscle

The procedure will be performed under general anesthesia and should take about 30 to 150 minutes, depending on the type of revision required. During the procedure, Dr. Patel will make the necessary revisions to your implant or remove them entirely.

All surgical procedures at Cascade are completed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you can go home the same day of surgery. There is minimal downtime required for this procedure, and most patients can resume daily activities within a few days. However, it is important to avoid exercise for the first three to four weeks after surgery to allow the new implants to settle naturally.