22 Jul Seven signs you need a Breast Implant Revision

Breast Implant Revision Signs

While breast implants are designed to last between 10-20 years, there are several reasons they may need to be replaced sooner. If your breast augmentation doesn’t deliver the natural-looking results you hoped for, or if you experience complications with your implants, a breast implant revision may be necessary.

Here are seven common signs that you may need revision surgery:

1. Your Breast Implants Are Causing Pain or Discomfort could be a sign for breast implant revision

Pain or discomfort from implants can indicate various issues, including capsular contracture, damaged lymph nodes, a developing seroma, pinched nerves, or poor implant placement. For silicone implants, pain may signal a rupture or leak. Persistent pain or irritation isn’t normal and should prompt a visit to your surgeon.

2. Your Implant Has Ruptured

A rupture can occur due to physical pressure (like a car accident) or the aging of the implant shell. A saline implant rupture causes immediate deflation, while a silicone implant rupture requires an ultrasound or MRI for diagnosis. Although not life-threatening, a ruptured implant should be removed to prevent infection or excessive scar tissue.

3. Your Implant Has Bottomed Out

Implants may “bottom out” if the skin and tissue can’t support them, causing the implant to fall below the breast crease. This is more common with large implants or due to pregnancies or aging skin. Bottomed-out implants cause the nipples to move upwards, and the implant outline may be visible or palpable.

4. Your Breast Implant Is Moving or Rotating 

It’s normal for implants to settle slightly, but not to move significantly. Displacement can occur if the implant pocket is too large, resulting in lateral displacement or symmastia (implants merging at the midline). Rotation, particularly of teardrop implants, can create an unnatural appearance.

5. Your Implant Has Changed Shape

Implant shape can change due to rupture, shifting, rotation, bottoming out, or displacement. These changes often occur asymmetrically, causing emotional distress and difficulties in finding well-fitting bras and clothing.

6. Your Breast Implant Is Causing Capsular Contracture 

Scar tissue formation is a normal healing process, but excessive scar tissue (capsular contracture) can occur. Grades three and four capsular contracture result in hard, misshapen, and painful breasts. Patients with severe capsular contracture typically need revision surgery.

7. You Are Unhappy With Your Breast Size

Some patients may wish they had chosen a different implant size. It’s generally recommended to wait about a year after the initial surgery before considering a size change, allowing time for healing and for the implants to settle into their final position.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it may be time to consider a breast implant revision. Dr. Shaun Parson is here to help you achieve the results you desire. See our before and after gallery for images. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options for breast implant revision surgery. 

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