Breast Implant Revision Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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.

Consultations are typically 30-40 mins and involve a thorough discussion about case history, treatments, review of example cases and photos and physical examination.It may be possible to arrange a free 15 minute consultation or teleconsultation if you are unsure about committing to a full appointment. Consultations are at the McIndoe Centre, East Grinstead. Sussex RH19 3UD.  Wednesdays or Fridays.   other locations - KIMS hospital, Maidstone; North Downs Hospital, Caterham.

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.