Introduction to Breast Revision
“To err is human, to forgive divine” is a famous line from the poet Alexander Pope. While these words are ever so true, it’s often easier said than done, especially when it affects your body. When you decide to get Breast Implants, you expect them to give you the bust you want, unfortunately, various factors can mess it all up, including an inexperienced plastic surgeon. Thankfully, you don’t have to live with unsatisfactory results! At the Nikolov Center in Beverly Hills, Dr. Nicholas Nikolov uses his knowledge, skills, and talent to help so many of his patients renovate these mistakes and achieve the look they were striving for all along.
What is Breast Revision?
A capsulectomy, or breast implant replacement, is the removal of the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around any prosthetic implant. After implantation of any foreign prosthesis, the body forms scar tissue around it encapsulating it. This process happens following any breast augmentation or reconstruction using a saline or silicone gel implant. It is a normal process. In some instances, however, the scar (capsule) around the implant may thicken and contract. As a result, the breasts may feel much harder on palpation. The shape may become significantly distorted and one may experience some discomfort or even constant pain. Performing a capsulectomy and replacement of the breast implants should alleviate the discomfort and improve the appearance and feel of the breasts.
For many women, the result of breast augmentation can be satisfying, even exhilarating, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance. The onset of capsular contracture can dampen the spirits causing pain, discomfort, embarrassment, and self-consciousness. A capsulectomy can bring back the satisfaction and confidence of your original result.
What are the Benefits of Breast Revision?
Breast Revision surgery can be a life changer for many women, and in some cases, a lifesaver. Some of the benefits our Breast revision surgery patients in Beverly Hills have discovered are:
- Addresses dissatisfaction with implant size
- Fixes capsular contracture or ruptured implants
- Improved cosmetic appearance
- Improved self-confidence
- Relief from previous breast implant complications
What’s the First Step?
In your initial consultation, Dr. Nikolov will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts.
Be sure to discuss your expectations honestly and Dr. Nikolov will be equally honest with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each. Be sure to tell Dr. Nikolov if you smoke and if you’re taking any medications or vitamins.
During your consultation, the type of anesthesia to be used, the type of facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved will all be explained to you. Some insurance companies consider a capsulectomy to be medically necessary. Discuss with our office the possibilities for insurance coverage. You may wish to verify with your insurance company ahead of time to find out if this procedure is covered under your policy.
During your preoperative appointment, we will give you instructions to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
Who are the Best Candidates for Breast Revision?
Women who have a capsular contracture associated with breast shape dysphoria or experiencing pain or rupture of a silicone gel implant are good candidates for the procedure. Some general characteristics that make a good candidate include:
- Concerned about the integrity or condition of your implants
- Physically healthy and at a stable weight
- Have realistic expectations
- Nonsmoker
- Physically healthy and at a stable weight
- Unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of your breast implants
Assessment of the need for implant size and shape change as well as some form of a breast lift (mastopexy) is imperative. These decisions should be discussed and made by you and Dr. Nikolov during your consultation.
What to Expect on the Day of Breast Revision
Breast revision can be performed with general anesthesia, so you’ll sleep through the entire operation. In some situations, Dr. Nikolov may use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy, so you’ll be relaxed but awake, and may feel some discomfort.
Once you are under anesthesia, Dr. Nikolov begins by making one of two types of surgical incisions, Inframammary or Periareolar, which is determined by the current size and shape of your breasts, the degree of change desired or needed, and the type of implant. The inframammary is when the incision is made horizontally underneath the folds of your breasts, while the periareolar makes incisions around the edge of your areolas.
After the incisions are made, the scar tissue is excised and the old implants (saline or silicone) are extracted. Dr. Nikolov then inserts your new implants and seals the incisions with sutures.
Breast Revision Recovery
You’re likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you’ll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by your surgeon. Within several days, the gauze dressings, if you have them, will be removed, and you may be given a surgical bra. You should wear it as directed by Dr. Nikolov. You may also experience a burning sensation in your nipples for about two weeks, but this will subside as the bruising fades. Your stitches will come out in a week to 10 days, but the swelling in your breasts may take three to five weeks to disappear.
You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job. Follow Dr. Nikolov’s advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks, so you should avoid much physical contact. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore, usually three to four weeks after surgery.
Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. Then they may remain the same size for several months, or even appear to widen. After several months, your scars will begin to fade, although they will never disappear completely.
Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women who are in the appropriate age group, although the mammographic technician should use a special technique to assure that you get a reliable reading, as discussed earlier.
How Much Does Breast Revision Cost in Beverly Hills?
The cost of Breast Revision in Beverly Hills will vary from patient to patient as it is based on a variety of factors, such as the degree of revision and the type of implant. The best way to find out how much your revision surgery will be is to meet with Dr. Nikolov for a consultation. Once he understands your goals and your needs, you will be given a price breakdown for the procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Nikolov?
The Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery is owned and operated by Dr. Nicholas Nikolov M.D, F.A.C.S. He completed his residency at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, and then continued his training with the plastic surgery program at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. As a board-certified member of the California Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Dr. Nikolov offers highly individualized care and technical skill with an artistic approach. He is world-renowned for his keen aesthetic sense that emphasizes harmony and subtle changes to create a fresh appearance that enhances his patients’ natural beauty.
Get in Touch
You don’t have to live with unsatisfactory breasts from a poor experience. Dr. Nikolov will help you regain your confidence and rediscover the beauty of your breasts. Call us today at (310) 247-1932 or use our website to schedule your consultation and rest easy knowing that mistakes can be corrected.
