There are many reasons that a woman might pursue revision breast surgery. Some women choose to have surgery because they are suffering complications from a previous cosmetic breast procedure. Others do so because they are unhappy with the size of the original breast implants they chose and would like to replace them with larger or smaller implants. Whatever the reason, Dr. Mussat can help. She has extensive experience performing both primary and secondary (revision) cosmetic breast surgery and can address the various concerns that some women experience following breast lift, implant or breast reduction surgery.
Why Pursue Revision Breast Surgery
Specifically, women might pursue revision breast surgery to address the following concerns:
- Breast asymmetry
- A potentially painful condition called capsular contracture (a hardening of the scar tissue around the implant pocket), making the breast feel hard
- Symmastia, a condition in which the breasts appear joined together in the middle
- Implant displacement, including “bottoming out,” a condition describing an implant that has slipped down, out of the implant pocket, thereby creating the look of having a vertical “double bubble”
- Health complications, such as bleeding or infection
- Poor scarring
- Visible rippling underneath the skin’s surface
- Temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation
- Difficulty breastfeeding
- Dissatisfaction due to implant size
- An implant leak, or rupture
- The desire to remove implants completely
While many of these complications can be avoided thanks to the high caliber of surgical skill and attention to aesthetic detail that Dr. Mussat has, a few of these risks may occur regardless of the surgeon’s efforts. In fact, breast implant manufacturers warn that breast implants are not intended to serve as lifetime devices and might need to be replaced about every 10 years.
The Revision Breast Surgical Procedure
Revision breast surgery is similar to the primary procedure. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, under general anesthesia. Depending on the primary surgical approach, the patient’s aesthetic concern and her anatomical needs, Chicago Plastic Surgeon Dr. Mussat is often able to use the original incision sites for the revision procedure.
For instance, to perform revision breast implant surgery, Dr. Mussat makes an incision around the original location, when 
medically appropriate for the patient. She removes the original implants, either replacing them with new implants or dispensing of them altogether. The Chicago breast implant surgeon re-closes the implant pocket, as necessary, using internal sutures, before closing the incisions with external sutures. Dr. Mussat then dresses the breasts with soft, fluffy bandages and a surgical bra over the top. The surgical bra minimizes swelling and provides additional support to the tissues during the healing process.
As with the primary procedure, some of the aesthetic effects of revision breast surgery are noticeable immediately following the operation while the fully actualized outcome becomes apparent after a few months. This is how long it takes for new implants to settle into a natural position, swelling to subside and the body to heal completely.
Combining Breast Revision with a Breast Lift
Combining breast revision surgery with a breast lift can offer comprehensive improvement in breast shape, size, and position. Breast revision surgery addresses issues related to previous breast augmentations, such as implant malposition, capsular contracture, or implant rupture. In contrast, a breast lift focuses on lifting and reshaping sagging breast tissue.
For individuals experiencing both dissatisfaction with their breast implants and ptosis (sagging) of the breast tissue, combining these procedures can achieve more natural and youthful-looking results. During your consultation with Dr. Florence Mussat, your specific concerns and goals will be discussed to determine the most appropriate surgical plan for you.
The benefits of combining these procedures include improved breast contour, enhanced nipple position, and a more youthful breast appearance. Whether you’re looking to downsize or replace implants, correct asymmetry, or restore breast shape and firmness after pregnancy or weight loss, Dr. Mussat’s expertise in breast revision and breast lift procedures can help you achieve natural-looking results that restore confidence.
Maintaining Breast Revision Results and Long-Term Care
After undergoing breast revision surgery, it’s essential to take proactive steps to maintain your results and ensure long-term satisfaction with your enhanced breast appearance. Here are some tips for maintaining your breast revision results and promoting optimal long-term care:
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Dr. Florence Mussat will provide specific post-operative instructions for your recovery period. Adhering to these instructions is critical to minimize the risk and promote healing.
- Attend Regular Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. Mussat to monitor your progress and address any concerns or questions. These appointments allow for early detection of any issues that may arise and ensure that your results progress as expected.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can help preserve your breast revision results. Maintaining a stable weight is especially important to prevent breast size and shape changes over time.
- Protect Your Skin: Protect your skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed. Sun exposure can accelerate skin aging and affect the appearance of your breasts.
- Stay informed about advancements in breast implant technology and surgical techniques. As new options become available, Dr. Mussat can guide whether additional procedures or updates may be beneficial for maintaining your results.
By following these tips and maintaining regular communication with Dr. Florence Mussat, you can enjoy the benefits of your breast revision surgery for years to come, ensuring that your enhanced breast appearance remains beautiful, natural-looking, and long-lasting.
You Can Have the Breasts You Desire
No matter what your reason for pursuing revision breast surgery is, Dr. Mussat is ready to help. She has the experience and expertise to help you achieve the breasts of your dreams, even if this is not your first attempt. To schedule a private consultation with Dr. Mussat and be one step closer to achieving your ideal bust line, contact her office by calling (312) 751-9000 today.
Frequently Asked Questions Breast Revision Chicago
Will I need to replace my implants during revision surgery?
Not necessarily. While some patients may choose to replace their implants during breast revision surgery, others may opt to have them removed entirely or undergo additional procedures, such as a breast lift, to achieve their desired outcome.
Am I a good candidate for breast revision surgery?
Breast revision surgery is for women who’ve undergone a breast augmentation and are unhappy with the results, experiencing complications, or have changed aesthetic preferences. A consultation with Dr. Mussat will help determine if breast revision surgery is right for you.
Can breast revision surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Breast lift or fat transfer can help you achieve more comprehensive breast enhancement and address multiple concerns.
How should I prepare for breast revision surgery?
Dr. Mussat will provide detailed pre-operative instructions for the weeks following your surgery. This may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications and supplements, arranging for transportation to and from the surgery, and preparing your home for recovery.
