Revision breast surgery is any operation carried out to change, correct or update the result of previous breast implant surgery. Because implants are not lifetime devices and the body's tissues change over the years, a significant proportion of patients will need some form of revision during their lifetime. Far from being a sign that something went wrong, revision is a normal and expected part of the long-term picture for many people with implants — though it is also how genuine complications are put right.
Common reasons for revision
Patients seek revision for a wide range of reasons, which broadly fall into "problems to correct" and "changes by choice":
- Capsular contracture — firm, distorted or painful scar tissue around the implant.
- Rupture or deflation — a tear in the shell or, for saline, a leak.
- Malposition — the implant sitting too high, low (bottoming out), to the side, or too close together (symmastia).
- Shape problems — such as double bubble, rippling or rotation of a shaped implant.
- A change of goals — wanting a different size or shape, or updating an older result.
- Ageing of the result — sagging or tissue change over time, sometimes needing a lift.
What revision surgery involves
There is no single "revision operation" — the procedure is tailored to the problem. Depending on the case it may include:
- Implant exchange — removing the old implants and placing new ones, sometimes of a different type, size or surface.
- Capsule surgery — releasing (capsulotomy) or removing (capsulectomy) the scar capsule.
- Pocket adjustment — tightening, reinforcing or recreating the implant pocket to reposition the implant.
- Support materials — mesh or matrices to reinforce weak tissue in complex cases.
- A breast lift — to address sagging at the same time.
- Implant removal — with or without replacement (explant), if that is the patient's choice.
Recovery and what to expect
Recovery from revision varies widely with the complexity of the operation. A straightforward implant exchange may recover similarly to — or faster than — first-time surgery, while extensive capsule work, pocket reconstruction or a combined lift involves more healing. Your surgeon will give you a tailored recovery plan. As with any surgery, realistic expectations are important: revision aims to improve the situation, and while results are often very good, perfection cannot be promised, particularly where tissue has been altered by previous operations.
What it costs
Revision is frequently more expensive than primary augmentation because it is more complex and time-consuming and may involve new implants, capsule work and support materials. If revision is needed soon after surgery for a complication, some surgeons and manufacturer warranty schemes contribute towards costs — check the terms before your original operation. Revision of surgery performed elsewhere or abroad is usually paid for privately. See revision surgery cost.
Choosing a surgeon for revision
Revision is not something every surgeon who performs primary augmentation does in high volume. Look for a plastic surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register with a substantial revision caseload and specific experience of your problem. Bring your original implant details and any records, and consider a second opinion, which is especially valuable for complex cases. See also revision after previous surgery for cases involving work done elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to wait before revision?
It depends on the reason. Some problems (like significant haematoma) need prompt attention, while elective changes are planned. For a complication, your surgeon will advise the right timing based on healing and the specific issue.
Is revision surgery riskier than the first operation?
Revision is more technically complex because it involves scar tissue and altered anatomy, and some complications are more likely to recur. Choosing an experienced revision surgeon helps manage these risks. Discuss your individual risk profile at consultation.
Will my revision be covered by a warranty?
Some manufacturer warranties contribute towards the cost of replacing a ruptured implant (and sometimes for capsular contracture) within a defined period, though surgical fees are usually still payable. Confirm the written terms of your implant's warranty.