Procedure guide
Revision breast augmentation
Correcting problems from earlier breast implants or silicone injections.
Revision breast augmentation is surgery to correct, remove or replace what an earlier breast procedure left behind. Below is a real case from our clinic: a video of the operation, photos before and right after surgery, and what to expect.
- Type
- Surgical
- Done as
- Planned with your surgeon after an examination
- Good to know
- Every case is different
- Next step
- A consultation with your surgeon
The background video shows real surgery.
Case study
A case from our clinic
This patient had silicone injected into her breasts about 10 years earlier. On physical examination, we found multiple breast masses, each smaller than a centimeter, with the largest about 4 cm and palpable.
She came to us for a consultation. We evacuated the cysts, and 400cc silicone implants were then inserted. The second photo was taken in the operating room right after surgery.
Case photos
Shared with the patient's permission. Nipples are pixelated for privacy.
View clinical photos
Watch the procedure
This video shows real surgery, including incisions. Tap play only if you are comfortable viewing it.
What to know
What is revision breast augmentation?+
It is a second (or later) operation on the breasts to deal with problems from an earlier procedure. That can mean removing or replacing implants, or clearing out material that was injected into the breast in the past.
Because each case starts from a different place, the plan is made around your own history and examination.
Why might someone need it?+
Common reasons include lumps, cysts or hardness in the breast, pain, implants that have shifted or hardened around the implant, an implant that has leaked or ruptured, noticeable differences between the two sides, and a size or shape you are no longer happy with.
Breasts that were injected with silicone or other fillers in the past can develop lumps or cysts years later, as in the case above. Do not ignore new lumps. Have them checked.
How is it planned?+
Your surgeon asks about your full history, including any injections or earlier surgery, and examines you. Imaging may be requested to see what is inside the breast and to plan the operation.
You will talk through what can realistically be improved, which implant size and type may suit you, and whether the work can be done in one operation.
Recovery: what to expect+
Expect swelling, bruising and soreness at first. Your surgeon will tell you what support or bra to wear, how to care for the incisions, and when you can return to work and exercise.
Revision surgery can take longer to settle than a first operation, and healing is different for everyone. We give you clear do's and don'ts before surgery and see you at follow-up visits.
Risks and things to know+
Every surgery has risks. With breast surgery these include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, scarring, changes in nipple or breast sensation, asymmetry, and the possibility of needing further surgery. Implants are not lifetime devices, and they may need checking or replacing in the future.
Results differ from person to person. The photos on this page are from one patient and are not a promise of your own result.
Questions to bring to your consultation+
What exactly is in my breasts, and what needs to come out? What implant size and type would you recommend, and why? How many operations might I need? What will the scars look like, and how long until I can go back to work?
This page is general information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will talk about your own situation during your consultation.
Interested in revision breast augmentation?
Request a consultation and our team will confirm your schedule by text or email.
Book a consultation