Revision & Refinement Surgeries

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Over time, your body, your implants, or your personal goals may change—and that’s when an implant revision surgery may be recommended. Implant revision is any surgery done to adjust, replace, or remove breast implants after a previous reconstruction.

This process is common and nothing to be ashamed of. For many women, it’s simply a natural part of their healing journey.

Why Implant Revision May Be Needed

1. Normal Aging and Changes Over Time

• Breasts naturally change shape with age, weight fluctuations, and gravity.

• Implants may shift or feel less balanced as your body changes.

2. Capsular Contracture

• The body forms scar tissue (“capsule”) around any implant.

• In some cases, this capsule becomes tight or hard, causing the breast to feel firm, painful, or look distorted. Revision surgery removes or releases this scar tissue.

3. Implant Rupture or Leak

• Saline implants may deflate quickly if they leak.

• Silicone implants can develop a “silent rupture,” usually found on imaging like MRI or ultrasound. Both require replacement.

4. Implant Malposition or Rippling

• Sometimes implants shift out of place (too high, too low, or to the side).

• Rippling or wrinkling of the implant may become visible, especially in thinner women. Revision surgery repositions or replaces the implant for a smoother look.

5. Cosmetic or Personal Preference

• Some women decide they want a different implant size, type, or even to remove implants completely.

• Revision can give a smaller, larger, or more natural look—whatever feels right for you now.

What Revision Surgery Involves

• Removing and replacing implants: Old implants are taken out and replaced with new ones.

• Adjusting the implant pocket: The space where the implant sits may be tightened, enlarged, or shifted for better placement.

• Capsule work: The scar tissue capsule may be removed (capsulectomy) or loosened (capsulotomy).

• Switching implant type: Some women change from saline to silicone, or vice versa, for a different look and feel.

• Fat grafting: In some cases, fat from another part of the body is added around the implant for a softer, more natural result.

• Implant removal only: If a woman no longer wants implants, the surgeon may remove them and perform a flat closure or reshaping with existing tissue.

Recovery and Healing

• Recovery is usually shorter than the original reconstruction, depending on what’s done.

• Most women can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks, though strenuous exercise may take longer.

• As with any surgery, there may be swelling, bruising, or temporary tightness.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Future surgeries: Even with revision, implants may need attention again in the future.

• Insurance coverage: When revision is needed because of medical complications (like rupture or capsular contracture), it may be covered. For cosmetic changes alone, coverage may vary.

• Emotional impact: For many women, revision brings peace of mind, comfort, and renewed confidence after living with concerns about their implants.

Who May Be a Candidate

• Women with complications (like rupture, capsular contracture, or implant shifting).

• Women who are unhappy with their results or want a change in size or type.

• Women who want to remove implants entirely and explore other reconstruction or flat closure options.

A Personal Choice

Needing an implant revision doesn’t mean your first reconstruction “failed.” It means your body, your implants, or your preferences have changed—something that happens to many women. Implant revision is about meeting your body where it is today—whether that means restoring balance, improving comfort, or choosing a new path that feels right for you.