Breast revision surgery addresses a variety of concerns, such as changing from one implant material to another, pain from a capsular contracture, or an implant that has ruptured or migrated. However, this blog will focus on increasing breast size after a breast augmentation.
It’s very common for women to want to go bigger after receiving breast implants, due to lifestyle changes or newly developed ideas of what a balanced body looks like. This procedure will remove your old breast implants and replace them with larger ones. During your consultation with Dr. Andreasen, you will discuss your new cosmetic goals and the type, size, and shape of your breast implants.
How Long Do I Have to Wait After Breast Augmentation for a Breast Revision?
It’s important not to rush your decision for breast revision surgery. Your body needs at least six months to heal after a breast augmentation. This allows swelling to resolve and for your implants to settle into their pockets. At that point, patients can see their final results and decide whether to go bigger. This waiting period requires patience, but it’s for the best so that Dr. Andreasen can deliver optimal results.
How Much Bigger Should I Go?
Choosing a larger implant size during a breast augmentation revision depends on more than just the cup size. Dr. Andreasen will weigh a variety of factors, including:
- Your current implant size
- Natural breast tissue
- Skin elasticity
- Chest width
- Implant revision
- The reason for your revision
While some patients desire a noticeably bigger size, going too large can place tension on the breast tissue and may increase the risk of stretching, rippling, implant malposition, or the need for another revision in the future.
Breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters, or cc’s, not by cup size. Keep in mind that patients should go bigger with a plan, not just a higher number. The right implant size should help you feel confident in your results while maintaining your body proportions, tissue quality, and breast health.
A general rule of thumb is that about 200 cc equals approximately 1–1½ cups. However, this can vary depending on your frame, implant profile, and existing breast tissue. Check out this general guide to get a better idea of implant sizes.
During your consultation, you want to choose an implant size that achieves your desired shape, projection, and balance. It’s also helpful to have a visual aid of what results to expect after your breast revision surgery. Take a look at Dr. Andreasen’s photo gallery.
[View Breast Revision Before and After Photo Gallery]
Breast Revision Recovery
Since you already had a breast augmentation, you’re most likely familiar with the recovery process. But what about breast revision recovery? Can you expect the same timeline as breast augmentation recovery?
Fortunately, patients can expect breast revision recovery to be smoother than breast augmentation recovery. Recovery after breast augmentation revision varies based on what’s being corrected, whether the implant pockets need to be adjusted, and how much bigger you choose to go. However, patients can expect this general timeline:
First 48–72 Hours
Requires the most downtime, so patients should rest as much as possible and limit arm movement. Swelling, bruising, and tightness are also prominent during the first few days.
Week 1
Many patients begin to feel more comfortable and may resume light daily activities.
Weeks 1–3
Patients can expect to return to their desk jobs or remote positions. If your job is physically demanding, you may need more time off.
Weeks 4–6
By the end of the sixth week, patients may gradually resume regular exercise and activities, provided that Dr. Andreasen approves.
Several Months and Beyond
Swelling continues to improve, and implants settle into their final position.
It’s essential that you follow Dr. Andreasen’s post-operative instructions carefully, including wearing your surgical bra, sleeping in the correct position, caring for your incisions, and following activity restrictions, to ensure a safe recovery and the best possible results.
Can Breast Revision Be Combined With Another Cosmetic Procedure?
Breast revision surgery can be combined with another cosmetic procedure. Patients tend to combine procedures to lower the overall time under anesthesia, the total cost, and recovery time. Some common procedures that are usually performed with a breast revision are:
- Breast lift: This may be performed if your breasts have stretched, the nipples sit lower than desired, or the new implants need additional support.
- Tummy tuck or liposuction: These procedures can be performed on patients looking to address their abdomen or waist, or to achieve body contouring.
- Mommy Makeover: This is best suited for women who have just given birth and want to reclaim their feminine figure by focusing on multiple areas of the body (e.g., breasts, abdomen, or buttocks).
If you’re interested in combining surgical procedures, you can discuss your options with Dr. Andreasen. These will depend on your anatomy, health, cosmetic goals, and the complexity of your breast revision.
Have More Questions About Breast Augmentation Revision in Ontario, CA?
If you’re considering a breast augmentation revision in Ontario, CA, so you can have the bigger, voluminous breasts you want, you are in good hands! Dr. Troy Andreasen is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He has extensive experience and training and has built trustworthy relationships with various hospitals, including San Antonio Community Hospital.
Patients feel safe, seen, and heard at his practice. Dr. Andreasen’s participation in missionary services truly shows that he cares for his patients and wants to help them feel confident in their own skin.
Call (909) 291-4900 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a consultation.
