Breast Revision

What Are Some Reasons for Breast Revision Surgery?

Breast revision focuses on implant removal, replacement, or exchange. Listed below are the most common cases where a patient may be a candidate for this treatment.

Breast Implant Removal

Individuals who wish to undergo breast augmentation do so to increase breast size primarily for aesthetics. However, after breast augmentation, some women may be dissatisfied with their results and opt to revert back to their normal breast size.

Others may want to remove their implants because of health concerns or other personal reasons. Breast revision surgery is a process where the implant is removed and the skin over the breast is tightened to make sure the breast sits in a natural position and looks normal.

Ruptured Implant

Implants are safe medical devices and leakages are rare, but sometimes the outer shell breaks down. If the implant is filled with saline, the solution will be absorbed by the body, and there will be a noticeable deflation of the breast.

In the case of silicone implants, the gel will settle where it is originally placed. An MRI must be used to verify the rupture because the gel doesn’t deflate. This is also the reason why a patient with silicone implants must undergo routine MRI scans.

Capsular Contracture

The tissues surrounding the implant may develop scars over time, which creates a condition called capsular contracture. The scar tissue tightens around the implant, which causes the implant to be constricted. The patient will feel severe hardening of the breast. This is corrected by a capsulectomy in which the scar tissue is surgically removed. Based on statistics, there are more occurrences of contracture with saline implants compared to silicone-based ones.

Breast Rippling

A noticeable rippling can sometimes be seen underneath or on the side of the breast. This is generally more common among patients who have very low tissue volume and who are thin. Although not a medical complication, the unnatural wrinkling may cause an unsightly appearance. Rippling is most common with saline implants.

Double Bubble Implants

When an implant moves out of the intended pocket, it may cause the appearance of a double breast where a significant crease is noticeable. Implants not properly placed may drop and extend past the breast’s crease or rise, forming an odd volume on top of the breast. Sometimes implants are displaced by severe capsular contracture. This condition may be noticeable when wearing tight-fitting clothes.

Implant Features

Breast implants vary in size, texture, shape and base. Some patients may be unhappy with how the breast looks and may consider a revision surgery to improve the appearance and better align with their preferences. This may involve a size change or an exchange from one shape of implant to another. Some patients also realize that they’d rather have a different material than their original choice. All preferences will be considered to modify the augmented breast.

What to Expect: Before, During, and After Surgery

Understanding the process of breast revision and implant exchange surgery can help you feel more informed and prepared every step of the way. From your initial consultation through recovery, our team is committed to providing comprehensive care tailored to your unique goals and surgical needs.

Before Surgery

Before your breast revision procedure, you will meet with Dr. Gutowski for a personalized consultation. During your consultation, we utilize 3D breast imaging during the consultation to give the patient insight into how implants will look after the revision surgery. Through careful skill, our surgeons can replace, repair, or remove defective implants to meet the patient’s aesthetic goals.

You’ll also receive pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications, stopping smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery. Preparing ahead of time ensures a smoother recovery.

During Surgery

Breast revision and implant exchange surgery are highly individualized procedures. Each surgical plan is tailored to address the patient’s specific concerns, anatomy, and goals. Whether the revision is being performed due to a complication or personal preference, surgical techniques are carefully selected to ensure optimal results and long-term implant support.

Breast revision surgery is performed with general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility to ensure comfort and safety. The duration of the surgery will depend on the complexity of your case, which could involve:

• Removing or replacing breast implants
• Removing scar tissue (capsulectomy)
• Reinforcing tissue with a surgical mesh (e.g., Strattice) if needed
• Performing a breast lift to address sagging or asymmetry

Our team takes a careful, customized approach to each procedure to restore natural breast contours and resolve your issues.

After Surgery

The patient may be sent home after treatment, depending on the severity of the case. It is recommended to have someone who can drive the patient home and who can provide support within 48 hours. Patients can resume their normal routine on the second week. It will take a few more months for the effects of the revision to become noticeable and the breasts to develop a natural feel and look.

Results and Expectations After Breast Revision Surgery

Breast revision surgery can significantly improve both the appearance and feel of your breasts, whether you’re addressing complications, removing implants, or simply seeking a new look. However, it’s important to understand that results take time to fully develop, and patience is key to the healing process.

When Will You See the Results?

While some changes are noticeable immediately after surgery (such as corrected implant positioning or reduced rippling), final results can take several months to fully appear. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

1-2 Weeks

Swelling and bruising are common. The breasts may feel tight or firm. You’ll need to wear a surgical bra and limit physical activity.

3-6 Weeks

Swelling begins to subside, and the implants settle into a more natural position. You can resume light exercise and return to work (depending on your job duties).

3-6 Months

Breast tissue softens and adjusts around the new implants. Any residual swelling typically resolves. You’ll begin to see a more natural shape and feel at this stage.

6-12 Months

This is when the final results are typically visible. Scars will begin to fade, and the implants should look and feel like a natural part of your body.

What Influences the Final Result?

While breast revision and implant exchange surgery are designed to deliver long-term improvements, several factors can impact how your results take shape over time. Healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, and your final outcome may be influenced by:

• Your body’s healing response: Every patient heals at a different pace.
• The complexity of your revision: If scar tissue removal or a breast lift was included, healing may take longer.
• Implant type and placement: Silicone implants generally feel more natural over time, and submuscular placement may take longer to settle.
• Use of surgical support devices: In some cases, a surgical mesh (like Strattice) may provide internal support, influencing shape and recovery time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after your initial augmentation can you get a revision?

Most surgeons recommend waiting at least six to twelve months after your original surgery to allow your body to fully heal unless there is an urgent complication like a rupture or severe contracture.

Can you switch from saline to silicone implants during revision surgery?

Many patients choose to switch implant types during breast revision surgery. Dr. Gutowski will discuss the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Will your breasts look natural after revision?

Whether you’re switching implant sizes, correcting a complication, or returning to your natural breast size, our team focuses on creating balanced, natural-looking results that align with your body and aesthetic goals. Dr. Gutowski uses advanced techniques and 3D imaging to plan your surgery with precision and intention.

Why Choose Dr. Karol A. Gutowski?

When it comes to breast revision and implant exchange surgery, choosing an experienced and trusted surgeon makes all the difference. Dr. Karol A. Gutowski is a nationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive expertise in complex breast procedures. Patients choose Dr. Gutowski for his surgical precision, personalized care, and natural-looking results.

At our Glenview office, we prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction every step of the way. Dr. Gutowski takes time to understand your concerns, offers honest recommendations, and uses advanced techniques—including 3D breast imaging—to ensure your revision or implant exchange is tailored to your goals. Whether correcting a complication or simply being ready for a change, you can feel assured knowing you’re in expert hands.

Breast Revision Surgery in Chicago: Your Next Step Toward Surgical Correction or Implant Exchange

If your current breast implants no longer align with your vision—or you’re experiencing discomfort, asymmetry, or other concerns—breast revision or implant exchange surgery can help you reclaim the results you deserve. At Dr. Karol A. Gutowski’s office, we’re here to guide you with expert care, advanced technology, and a deep understanding of your goals. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and receive expert guidance on your next steps in breast revision or implant exchange surgery.