Breast Implant Revision Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Breast implant revision covers a number of different operations, but this case involved removing overlarge implants and capsulectomy, and exchange for anatomical implants. 

The smallest reductions could be around the areola alone, and can be combined with liposuction. Normally a lollipop or anchor shaped scar are required to make a meaningful reduction.

You may have decided to change the size of your breast implants or to have them removed altogether.  Alternatively the shape or texture of one or both breasts may have changed with time.  This is typically due to a membrane which forms around the breast implant, tightening and thickening with time - it is known as a ‘capsule’.  As the capsule tightens it causes the shape of the breast to become more rounded; wrinkles can sometimes be seen or felt and sometimes there is pain also.  Capsule tightening and the shape change which results occurs in approximately 1-2% of implants per year.  Change in body and breast shape following pregnancy or weight loss may also have contributed to this. What does the operation involve? Usually, your previous breast implant scar is reopened and sometimes it may be made a little longer.  The ‘capsule’ is removed in part or as a whole (‘capsulectomy’) or it may be left behind but loosened with some internal incisions (‘capsulotomy).  The old implant is also removed and typically this is exchanged for a new implant of the same or of a different size.  The old implant can be returned if it is in good condition.  Some women choose not to have the breast implant replaced at all.  A small plastic tube (‘drain’) is positioned in the breast cavity and it is connected externally to a vacuum bottle.  The drain is left in position for approximately 48 hours and then removed.   Ordinarily you will go home with the tube in place and return to the hospital to have it removed on the second or thrid day after operation.  Sometimes the operation will be combined with an uplift of the breasts (‘mastopexy’) especially if a smaller implant is chosen.  Mastopexy usually involves an incision around the nipple and may also require a vertical incision from the nipple to the fold and a longer incision in the fold.  This adds some further complexity and time to the operation.

Does Breast Implant Surgery require a general anaesthetic or hospitalisation? Breast Implant Surgery is usually a 1-night-stay or a day-case operation which is carried out under general anaesthetic. What are my options for the type of implants? Various types of Breast Implants are available and the optimum implant for you will depend on your goals and existing size and shape. Breast implant types are Silicone or Saline filled, round or teardrop shaped and can be low, medium, high or extra high profile in order to achieve the best aesthetic natural result.  There are differences in the outer layer of implants also.  I usually use Motiva or Mentor implants which ahve a good safety and manufacturing record. Where will the implants be placed in Breast Augmentation Surgery? Breast implants can usually be placed directly behind the breast tissue.   If the breast tissue is thin over the upper part of the breast then it may be preferable to place the implant more deeply, under the pectoral muscle. In either position, what you will see and feel is your own breast tissue.  The goal is to achieve the optimum natural appearance of your breasts. How long is the recovery time? Most patients report that their surgery was much less painful than they expected. Moderate pain / discomfort is expected for 3 – 5 days. You may return to your normal daily activities the next day if you feel ready and comfortable to do so.  You should however avoid strenuous exercise / activity for 6 weeks. It will be necessary to wear a support bra for the first 3 weeks, day and night and the second 3 weeks during the day. The majority of swelling will resolve in 2 – 3 weeks but it will take up to 3 months for the breast to return to normal feel.

How would I be helped by breast reduction?You may find that your breasts are too big.  This could be for reasons of body image perhaps if you have a slight or slim figure which is out of keeping with the size of the breasts.  Regardless of your overall body shape, large and heavy breasts can cause pains around the neck and shoulders, affect posture or cause rubbing and discomfort from bra straps.  The breast crease can be sweaty and even develop rashes or sores.   If you are sporty you may find that a big bust interferes with your activities.  From time to time women have jobs or pastimes which may be difficult due to physical requirements or special clothing.  Other patients find that large breasts are a source of unwanted attention and comment. All of these problems are successfully addressed by breast reduction; women have high rates of satisfaction following breast reduction surgery and this is supported by medical research into quality of life after this procedure.  How is the operation done? One of the most important aspects of breast reduction surgery is your consultation.  Mr Harley will listen carefully to your concerns and discuss look you want to achieve. The operation itself is done while you are asleep (general anaesthetic).  It takes 2-3 hours and you can go home on the day of surgery or the day following it.  Breast reduction removes skin and breast tissue usually from the underneath and sides of the breast and reshapes the remaining breast tissue to give natural and more youthful appearance.  This is carefully measured and planned at your consultation and again immediately prior to surgery.  The remaining skin and tissue is reshaped around the nipple and the resulting breast is smaller, lighter and uplifted.