“To lose confidence in one’s body is to lose confidence in oneself.” – Simone de Beauvoir
Breast Revision
At times. life's circumstances may have led you down unexpected paths, but it's never too late to reclaim your sense of self-worth and embrace the essence of your femininity.
Breast revision surgery is an opportunity for you to address any concerns or desires you may have regarding a previous breast surgery. Whether it was a breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, mastopexy, breast reduction, or even a prior breast revision procedure, this procedure can help make things right for you. There are a variety of reasons why clients choose to undergo breast revision surgery. Perhaps your body has changed since your original surgery, and you want to restore symmetry and balance. Maybe you’re not completely satisfied with the cosmetic outcome of your previous procedure, and you long for a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Capsular Contracture
The most common revision needed after breast augmentation is capsular contracture treatment. It is believed to be caused by bacterial contamination or blood around the implant. While there is evidence supporting these theories, the exact cause of capsular contracture remains unknown. Dr. Stephenson can minimize the risk by performing precise surgery, avoiding bacterial contamination, and recommending early activity.
Deflation/Rupture
When a saline implant leaks, it deflates gradually, creating a noticeable change. If a silicone implant ruptures it is contained within the breast pocket. Sometimes silicone rupture is associated with discomfort but often it is silent. The treatment for either deflation or rupture involves removing and replacing the implant. If it has been a long time since the original surgery, you may need to consider replacing both implants. You can also think about switching to a different size or switching to silicone implants. If you decide to go for a larger implant, the pocket around the implant may need to be enlarged, and the other breast may require surgery to achieve a balanced look. While this situation is not an emergency, it is easier to perform the surgery within the first few weeks after the deflation or rupture.
Abnormal Position
Improperly positioned breast implants can result in an unnatural appearance. If the implant is too high, there will be a bulge at the upper part of the breast and the nipple may droop. If the implants are too close together, the skin may tent over the breastbone, causing the breasts to appear joined together, known as symmastia or “uniboob.” Placing the implants too low can result in an empty upper breast and upwardly tipped nipples. If the implants are positioned too far apart, cleavage may be lacking, and the nipples may point inward. A beautiful breast has the right balance of volume above and below the nipple, as well as to the inside and outside of the nipple.
At ESJ Aesthetics, our mission is to assist you in attaining the effortlessly stunning and harmonious look you envision. We empathize with your individual aspirations after your initial procedure, and we’re committed to making sure those aspirations are fulfilled. Through Dr. Stephenson’s breast revision surgery, we can empower you to reclaim your confidence and experience genuine satisfaction with the appearance of your breasts.
Breast Implant Removal (Explantation)
Breast implant removal is a decision that is not often made unless a patient is seeking an implant replacement or exchange. However, there are times when it becomes a choice, entwined with a heartfelt desire for a breast lift or mastopexy. It’s completely normal for our bodies to change over time due to various factors like pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, and weight fluctuations. If you’re experiencing discomfort, increased scar tissue, or simply not happy with the aesthetics anymore, don’t worry. Dr. Stephenson understands your concerns and uses specialized techniques to safely remove the implants, hardened tissue, and minimize future scarring. You deserve a natural-looking and attractive outcome that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Innovation
GalaFLEX™
Discover a groundbreaking solution of GalaFLEX™ that will transform your aesthetic breast surgery experience. Depending on the degree of skin stretch and laxity, weight-loss history, and breast size, many breast surgery patients require additional internal support to maintain a beautiful shape. ESJ Aesthetics, GalaFLEX™ is a new option for soft-tissue reinforcement to help prevent sagging after first time breast surgery or to reduce the chance of recurring sagging following a breast lift or mastopexy, breast augmentation, or breast reduction. GalaFLEX™ is derived from 4HB is a type of biopolymer called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). PHAs are substances found in nature that microorganisms use to store and release energy. Unlike other polymers used for soft tissue support, 4HB is made through a special fermentation process using natural ingredients, rather than being made using chemicals. Approved by the FDA, GalaFLEX™ is a resorbable internal hammock or “internal bra” for soft tissue reinforcement. GalaFLEX™ promotes the growth of tissue to become a more long-lasting natural support.
Strattice™ and Alloderm™
Discover a groundbreaking solution of Strattice™ and Alloderm™ that will transform your aesthetic breast surgery experience. Strattice™ and Alloderm™ are innovative matrices designed to address common concerns such as abnormal implant position and internal scar and firmness (capsular contracture), allowing you to achieve the beautiful and natural results you’ve always desired. ADM (acellular dermal matrix) products have been observed to remarkably lower the incidence of capsular contracture. Dr. Stephenson has been offering the revolutionary Strattice™ and Alloderm™ to clients who have experienced recurrent unsatisfactory results.
Strattice™, derived from the skin of specially raised pigs, and Alloderm™, sourced from human donors, are remarkable solutions that offer numerous benefits. Some women may initially feel uncomfortable with the origins of these products, it is crucial to acknowledge the widespread use of animal-derived substances in medical procedures. Countless individuals have confidently received cow-derived collagen injections for lip enhancement, porcine (pig) insulin for the treatment of diabetes, clot-busting medication for stroke patients, and porcine (pig) derived parts for heart surgery.
Although the incorporation of GalaFLEX™, Strattice™, and Alloderm™ may increase the cost of revision breast surgery, it is important to recognize that they represent the only viable solution for some of the most challenging, frustrating, and disfiguring problems following breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Stephenson has successfully treated numerous clients that had multiple dissatisfying operations, finally achieving optimal results through the meticulous utilization of these innovative products.
During a comprehensive consultation, Dr. Stephenson offers his patients a thorough analysis of their individual situation. He ensures a deep understanding of the applicability and potential benefits that these groundbreaking products can provide. Put your trust in the authority and experience of Dr. Stephenson as he guides you towards a transformative and satisfying outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons for undergoing breast revision surgery?
Clients choose to undergo breast revision surgery for various reasons, such as restoring symmetry and balance due to changes in their body since the original surgery or seeking a more aesthetically pleasing result.
What is the most common revision needed after breast augmentation?
The most common revision needed after breast augmentation is capsular contracture treatment. It is believed to be caused by bacterial contamination or blood around the implant.
What happens if a saline implant leaks?
When a saline implant leaks, it deflates gradually, creating a noticeable change. The treatment involves removing and replacing the implant.
What happens if a silicone implant ruptures?
If a silicone implant ruptures, it is contained within the breast pocket. Sometimes silicone rupture is associated with discomfort, but often it is silent. The treatment involves removing and replacing the implant.
Can I switch to a different size or type of implant during revision surgery?
Yes, during revision surgery, you can consider switching to a different size or switching to silicone implants. If you decide to go for a larger implant, the pocket around the implant may need to be enlarged, and the other breast may require surgery to achieve a balanced look.
What are the consequences of improperly positioned breast implants?
Improperly positioned breast implants can result in an unnatural appearance. If the implant is too high, there will be a bulge at the upper part of the breast and the nipple may droop. If the implants are too close together, it may cause the breasts to appear joined together. Placing the implants too low can result in an empty upper breast and upwardly tipped nipples. If the implants are positioned too far apart, cleavage may be lacking, and the nipples may point inward.
What form of anesthesia will be used for my procedure?
Most surgeons use general anesthesia for breast reduction surgeries to ensure that the patient doesn’t feel any pain or anxiety.
Will I have scars after breast revision surgery?
Healed surgical incisions are predictable after surgery. Dr. Stephenson tries to use previously healed incisions to perform revision surgery. Occasionally additional incisions are necessary to achieve the best outcome. Scarring leading to poor aesthetic outcome can occur, but skilled incision techniques are used to minimize the possibility.
How long is the recovery after breast revision surgery?
Recovery varies, but typically involves swelling, bruising, and a gradual return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks.
What should I bring with me on the day of surgery?
Detailed instructions will be provided to you after you have scheduled your surgery. The bra you will need to wear after surgery will be provided to you. On the day of surgery, it’s recommended to wear a comfortable sweatshirt top that you can easily zip on and off.
Do I need to go to an aftercare facility after my surgery?
In most cases, clients are well enough to go home after breast revision surgery and do not need to go to an aftercare facility. However, some patients may choose to go to an aftercare facility if they do not have someone to watch over them the night of surgery or if their home environment is not conducive to relaxation and recovery. Dr. Stephenson has a vetted list of aftercare facilities for his clients.
What will my post-operative appointment schedule?
Dr. Stephenson wants to see everyone 48 hours after surgery to be sure that everything is okay. We offer patients frequent visits thereafter, usually at one week, one month, six months, one year, and yearly thereafter. But some clients will come more frequently, some less frequently. We do not charge for these visits. Some clients have little questions they want answered, and other clients feel fine on their own. But he is always available for a patient who wants to come in. It is not uncommon for breast revision surgery clients to have a “spitting stitch” or a small area here or there of delayed healing that he will need to see. So, the visits are more on an “on or if-needed” basis than anything specific.
How painful is the recovery?
Most clients describe the recovery period as moderately painful. Clients may experience pressure and muscle spasms, but the pain is typically not severe. Pain gradually builds up, so if you start feeling uncomfortable, taking a pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Stephenson will help alleviate the discomfort.
When can I shower/take a bath?
You can take a shower the day after surgery. You should wait about three weeks before taking a bath so that your incisions are somewhat healed.
When do the stitches need to be removed?
For breast revision surgery the stitches will dissolve on their own
How soon can I go to work?
When you feel ready to do your job is highly individualized. So long as your work doesn’t involve straining and heavy lifting, you can expect to be back to work after no later than 2 weeks. Some people go back even sooner, and many work from home 3-4 days after surgery.
When can I drive?
You can drive when you are off all narcotic pain medication and feel totally unrestricted by your discomfort such that you could make any movement you might need to safely drive your car. The timeline is different for each client. Dr. Stephenson typically recommends 2 weeks after surgery.
When can I travel by airplane?
Long air travel (greater than 1 and ½ hours) should be avoided during the first 4 weeks after surgery to reduce the rare possible of a blood forming in the legs during air travel. Oher issues involved have to do with the difficulty of getting through airports these days, and whether you are going somewhere where there is a plastic surgeon to look after you or should you have questions or problems or just need to be looked at by an experienced doctor. These issues are usually very individualized, and you should discuss them with Dr. Stephenson.
When can I resume exercise?
We suggest you wait a minimum of 4-6 weeks to be sure that everything is healed. There is always a chance of causing bleeding if you start much before that time. When you start, listen to your body. You will be a little out of condition and a bit sore. But you will get back to where you were before surgery very quickly.
Will I get a phone call from the doctor on the night of my surgery?
Dr. Stephenson will personally call you on the night of your surgery. He will also provide you with his personal cell phone and email address so that you can reach him directly if needed.