Breast Implant Replacement Gold Coast

Breast Implant Revision Gold Coast

Breast implant replacement, also known as breast revision surgery, is a procedure that involves removing and replacing breast implants. There are many reasons why a woman would choose to exchange her breast implants. These reasons include a simple change in personal preference or to correct a breast implant complication.

Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas) is a breast implant revision surgeon with over 27 years of experience in the removal and replacement of breast implants. She commonly performs this procedure in accredited facilities on the Gold Coast including John Flynn Private Hospital and Miami Private Hospital.

What is Breast Implant Revision Surgery ?

Revisional breast surgery involves replacing old breast implants with new implants.

It is common for women to seek a revision of their previous breast augmentation results. In a secondary breast surgery procedure, the goal is always to improve breast appearance.

In this case, you may choose a different:

breast implant size
breast implant shape (round or anatomical)
breast implant texture (smooth vs nano-textured)

Depending on your personal goals, the procedure may be a simple breast implant replacement, or you may choose to combine your implant replacement with a breast lift, or breast reduction surgery.

During your procedure, your surgeon may also:

reshape the breast pocket to correct the implant position
remove or relax excess scar tissue, and/or
add an internal bra to lift the breast and support the implant

As you can see, revisional breast surgery is a very personalised procedure. The procedure itself will vary depending on your unique situation. The best way to explore this is with a confidential consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Hertess.

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What Does Breast Augmentation Revision Involve?

Breast revision is always performed under general anaesthetic at an accredited hospital. This means you will be asleep during your surgery.

When you wake up, you will have dissolvable stitches under the skin, a compression garment, and often be able to go home the same day. You will also have a revised breast augmentation scar, typically in the crease underneath your breast.

At a glance, removal and replacement of breast implants involves:

Time in surgery: 1-3 hours
Hospital stay: Day case or overnight stay
Time off work: 1-2 weeks
Time before driving: 1-2 weeks
Time before exercise: 6 weeks
Compression garment: 6 weeks
Scar position: In fold beneath the breast

Who is Revision Breast Surgery For?

There are many reasons a woman may choose to undergo breast implant replacement surgery. She may want to:

Change Breast Implant Size and Shape

Some women desire to change the size and shape of their breast implants. This could be due to:

Personal preference - your preferences may have changed since your initial surgery. You may choose to increase or decrease your breast size to a look that better suits you and your lifestyle.
Weight fluctuations, ageing and/or motherhood - your breasts or body may have changed over time causing you to re-evaluate your current breast implant size.

Address Breast Implant Complications

The second reason women may choose breast revision is to address a breast implant complication, including (but not limited to):

These complications can occur over time and cause discomfort or deformity of the breast. As they all require their own unique treatment method, it is essential to see a breast revision surgeon like Dr Hertess. This will ensure you get the most effective treatment for your situation.

Breast Implant Removal and Replacement Procedure

Breast augmentation revision surgery is highly personalised procedure. This means the steps involved will depend on your individual goals and current breast situation. The best way to understand your options is with a private consultation with Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas).

Consultation

During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss:

Your personal reasons for choosing revision surgery
Your desired outcomes
Your current breast situation and any concerns or complications

Dr Hertess will then conduct a physical examination to assess your breast anatomy, skin quality, implant position and any scar tissue. She may also take measurements and photographs to assist with the planning of your procedure.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Prior to surgery, you will have a pre-operative appointment where you will receive all the necessary information to prepare for your procedure, including:

Specific instructions regarding fasting
Medication and vitamins to avoid
Pre-operative testing requirements (if needed)

Dr Hertess will also discuss any potential risks and complications associated with revisional breast surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful surgery.

The Procedure

Once you are asleep under general anaesthesia, Dr Hertess will perform the revisional surgery. The specific steps involved in your procedure may include:

Creating a new incision to allow access to the breast pocket
Removing and replacement of the breast implant(s)
Adjusting or removing scar tissue as needed
Placing an internal bra to support the implant
Closing the incisions with dissolvable stitches and dressing the area

Breast Implant Replacement Recovery

Following your procedure, you will need to rest for 1-2 weeks before returning to work. You may experience some discomfort and swelling in the treated area, but this can be managed with medication and a compression garment.

It is important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 6 weeks to promote proper healing. Dr Hertess will provide you with specific aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.

The total recovery time for breast implant revision surgery is approximately 6 weeks.

Breast Implant Revision Before and After Photos

The following are images of Dr Hertess' real patients. See the complete gallery of breast implant replacement before and after photos here.

FAQs on replacing Breast Implants

Can you have breast implants removed and replaced at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to have your implants removed and replaced during the same procedure. This is often a convenient option for patients as it only requires one surgery and recovery period.

How do I know when my breast implants need replacing?

You may need secondary breast surgery if you are experiencing any discomfort, changes in appearance, or have concerns with your current breast implants.

In this case, it is important to consult with a specialist plastic surgeon about revision surgery. They will be able to assess your situation and recommend the best course of action for you.

Is breast implant revision painful?

As with any surgery, you may experience some discomfort during the recovery period. Breast implant replacement surgery is often less painful than initial augmentation surgery. Dr Hertess will provide you with a pain management plan to help manage any discomfort as you heal.

Can I choose a different size implant for my revision surgery?

Yes, you can discuss your desired outcome with Dr Hertess during your consultation. She will be able to provide recommendations and help you choose a new size that is more suitable for your body.

Does breast implant revision surgery leave scars?

Yes, all surgical procedures leave a scar. Breast implant revision surgery will leave a scar over your previous breast augmentation scar (underneath the breast).

If you choose to add a breast lift or breast reduction to your procedure, you will have additional scars.

Can you use the same implants with revision?

In some cases, it may be possible to use the same implants during revision surgery. However, this will depend on your individual situation and the condition and age of your current implants. Dr Hertess will assess this during your consultation and provide recommendations for the best course of action.

What does breast revision surgery cost?

The breast implant replacement cost varies depending on individual factors and the specific procedure involved. Dr Hertess will provide you with a detailed quote during your consultation.

Breast augmentation revision surgery can help address various concerns and complications related to breast implants. Whether you want to change the size or type of your implants, or you are experiencing issues with your current ones, Dr Hertess can provide guidance and solutions.

Book a consultation today to discuss your options for breast implant replacement surgery on the Gold Coast. You can also view our breast implant revision before and after gallery to help you make an informed decision.