How Common is Revision Surgery Following a Breast Implant?

One of the most common concerns patients have before undergoing breast implant surgery is the risk of requiring a second surgery later on.  This second surgery is often referred to as a revision surgery because its purpose is to make a change based upon the results of the first procedure.  There are two common reasons revision surgery is required.  They are the hardening of scar tissue around the breast and implant malposition.

What Causes Scar Tissue Hardening Following a Breast Implant?

The hardening of scar tissue (capsular contracture) can be caused by a variety of things.  There are two easily identifiable causes which are the appearance of a hematoma and trauma to the breast.  A hematoma is a collection of blood which exists outside of blood vessels.  This is normally caused when your body cannot properly heal following the surgery.  As a reaction to the hematoma, scar tissue begins to form which causes the area around the implant to feel hard or lumpy.  The other common cause is excessive trauma.  While trauma to the breast tissue is inevitable during any breast augmentation surgery, the level of trauma is what will determine if any scar tissue becomes noticeable.  The best way to minimize your risk of scar tissue hardening is by using a board-certified, highly-skilled plastic surgeon.

The other possible causes of scar tissue hardening includes infection and biofilm formation on the implant.  Unfortunately, identifying whether or not an infection exists can be difficult.  If there is not an obvious reason for capsular contracture, it is likely caused by an infection or biofilm formation.

How Common is Capsular Contracture?

Across the country, the rate of significant scar tissue hardening is estimated to be between 10% and 15% of all breast implant surgeries.  It is important to understand that the level of severity will vary greatly on a case by case basis.  In total, it is considered to be the primary reason revision surgery is required.  Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict how your body will react to the breast implants prior to the surgery.

Another Common Reason for Revision Surgery is Implant Malposition

Aside from scar tissue hardening, the other common cause of revision surgery is improper implant location.  During your surgery, an implant pocket is created to secure the implant in a specific location.  When the implant pocket is created correctly, you will be completely satisfied with your results.  If there is a problem with the appearance of your new breasts, you will likely want the issue to be fixed.  The only way to do this is by undergoing a second surgery which will repair and alter the implant pocket to provide you the results you want.

The only way to limit your risk of implant malposition is by finding a board-certified plastic surgeon which has a documented track record of success.  The best surgeons are more than happy to provide you with before and after pictures of previous breast implant patients to illustrate their skills and experience.  It will also give you an opportunity to see if they have worked with women who have similar breast characteristics as you.

The Only Way to Prevent Revision Surgery

There is one common thread which ties all of the potential causes of revision surgery together – the surgeon.  An elite Houston plastic surgeon takes the steps necessary to minimize the risk of infection and limit the impact breast implant surgery has on your body.  Plus, choosing an experienced, skilled plastic surgeon ensures they will be able to give you the results you desire without the risk of implant malposition.  With all cosmetic surgeries there is an element of risk which cannot be eliminated; however choosing the right plastic surgeon in Houston is the only way to minimize your risks.