Breast Augmentation Revision in the Toronto Area

When Revision Surgery Is Necessary

Complications following breast augmentation surgery often don’t appear until several years after the primary operation, gradually becoming more noticeable. That’s not always the case. It’s obvious when a saline implant deflates, for example. The reasons women come to Dr. Weinberg’s plastic surgery clinics in Toronto or Mississauga for breast implant revision can include:

• Capsular contracture: This is the most common reason for revision surgery, and it’s actually most common in the first couple of years following surgery. It occurs when thickened scar tissue forms around an implant and begins contracting. It causes the implant to feel less natural and, in some cases, can cause extreme discomfort.
• Deflated implant: If a saline-filled implant ruptures or leaks, it will rapidly shrink. If a silicone cohesive gel implant cracks or ruptures, it probably won’t be noticeable without an MRI or X-ray.
• Sagging implants: Even breasts with implants eventually sag as a person ages. However, sagging or elongation of breast implants can be exacerbated if they are overly large to begin with. Large implants can cause breast skin to thin and increase the implant’s visibility and rippling. That’s why it’s important to select an implant size appropriate for each patient’s body before the initial breast augmentation. Dr. Weinberg guides patients in their decisions.
• Implant malposition: It’s important for a surgeon to create a roomy envelope, or pocket, for breast implants that allows the breasts to retain a soft, natural feeling. If it’s too large, though, an implant can move too much. This leads to implant malposition.
• Symmastia: Also called bread loafing, or uniboob, symmastia occurs when the capsules containing the implants are too close to the center of the chest and close together.
• Dissatisfaction with implant size: Patients are sometimes not satisfied with the size of their implants following the initial surgery. Most of the time, these women express a desire for larger implants, but some patients want to replace their implants with smaller ones.
• Interest in a change of shape: Some patients seek revision surgery because they have had their implants a while and are ready for a change. New implant shapes and styles are being released all the time, giving patients more options than ever.

Your Revision Procedure

Revision surgery to correct complications with breast implants, or to change size or shape, is typically more complicated than the first operation. It’s important to select a plastic surgeon who is experienced in revision procedures, because they can present unique issues that aren’t part of a primary breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Weinberg is considered one of the best breast surgeons in the greater Toronto area and he specializes in achieving natural-looking results for his patients.

It is often necessary to opt for a different placement for implants than that chosen in the initial surgery. So, if you had implants above the muscle the first time, it may be advisable to go below the muscle for your revision and vice versa. Generally, inframammary incisions are recommended in revision surgeries in order to get appropriate visualization of the prior implant and surrounding tissues. It may also be necessary the second time around to go with a breast lift in order to achieve the desired result. If you are exchanging implants, you will learn about your breast implant options. You can also have your implants removed for good, and Dr. Weinberg can discuss your aesthetic options.

Because you’ve already undergone breast augmentation, you are generally familiar with the procedure. In revision cases, Dr. Weinberg determines whether the previous incision sites can be used again and determines the specific nature of your complications. Revision surgery is typically an outpatient procedure and that involves postoperative instructions similar to those you followed after your first augmentation.

Commonly Combined Procedures

Many women choose to combine their breast augmentation revision surgery with complementary procedures to enhance their overall appearance and results. These may include:

• Breast Lift
• Liposuction
• Tummy Tuck
• Mommy Makeover

Request Your Consultation

If you’re a Toronto-area resident with breast implants who is experiencing complications or is simply ready for a change, request a consultation online to meet with Dr. Weinberg, or call our office at  (905) 273-3045 (Mississauga) or  (416) 207-9090 (Toronto) to schedule an appointment.