Breast Implant Revision Surgery in Birmingham, AL

Sometimes breast augmentation patients from Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, and other nearby cities who were initially thrilled with their results decide to replace their breast implants for various reasons. This procedure, called breast implant revision surgery, is performed in Birmingham, AL, by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael S. Beckenstein. He is a top breast implant revision specialist, which is important because the procedure is more complicated than first-time augmentation and requires exceptional skill.

Who Gets Breast Implant Revision Surgery?

Breast implant revision procedures address a wide range of issues for women who have had breast augmentation surgery. It may be an elective surgery—for example, a patient wants to exchange saline implants for silicone gel implants—or the procedure may be necessary to correct a complication.

The ultimate goal is the same as for breast augmentation surgery—to produce results that look natural and that patients love. Some of the reasons for breast implant revision surgery include:

  • A desire to change the size of the breasts
  • Discomfort caused by capsular contracture
  • Visible implant rippling
  • Concerns about implant rupture or leaking
  • Implant malposition
  • Wanting to replace older implants with a newer generation of implant

In some cases, patients choose to remove their implants rather than replace them, which is also a specialized procedure that Dr. Beckenstein performs.

A Reputation Built on Results

The staff was very friendly and so professional. Clean environment and Dr. Beckenstein is the greatest!...
Loved the experience with Dr. Beckenstein and his staff. Highly recommend.
Cannot say enough good things about my experience. A surgeon in my state (TN) denied doing the surgery...
Amazing staff! Amazing doctor! My surgery and recovery could not of gone smoother. My results exceeded...

How Is Breast Implant Revision Surgery Performed?

Implant revision surgery techniques differ depending on the patient and the reason they are having the procedure performed. Dr. Beckenstein discusses your goals and concerns during the consultation and then creates a surgical plan based on that discussion and a physical examination.

Breast implant revision surgery is more complex than first-time breast augmentation procedures. It is not simply a matter of using the old incisions to remove implants and then putting in the new implants. Among the issues that make revision surgery more complicated is the scar tissue that forms around each implant. Additionally, the breast skin and muscles have changed because of the implants. Dr. Beckenstein may recommend combining a breast lift with revision surgery if sagging is a concern.

If a patient is changing the size or placement of the implants, Dr. Beckenstein will manipulate the original implant pockets, so they accommodate the new implants. It may also require using an acellular dermal matrix to bolster support within the pocket.

The techniques used for non-elective implant exchange, such as when a patient has capsular contracture, are different. In the case of capsular contracture, the scar tissue tightens and hardens around the implant. This “capsule” typically needs to be removed before inserting the new implants.

How Long Is Recovery After Breast Implant Revision Surgery?

Depending on the reasons for getting implant revision surgery, you can expect the recovery to be fairly similar to what you experienced after your initial breast augmentation surgery. Most patients need about 3 days of downtime after the procedure and will notice swelling and bruising that is mostly resolved over the course of 1 to 2 weeks. Residual swelling, as with more surgical procedures, can last several months. You should avoid raising your arms above your head or lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds while you heal. It’s important to walk several times a day to encourage blood circulation.

Dr. Michael S. Beckenstein

Dr. Michael S. Beckenstein

Dr. Beckenstein is a fellowship-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon whose extensive experience in breast enhancement, body contouring procedures, and reconstructive plastic surgery sets him apart.

Meet Dr. Beckenstein

How Much Does Breast Implant Revision Surgery Cost?

Because implant revision surgery is more complex than primary breast augmentation, it is typically more expensive. The specific cost of the procedure depends on whether it is elective implant replacement or due to complications. An elective implant replacement procedure is generally less costly than one performed to correct an issue such as capsular contracture. We discuss the cost after you meet with Dr. Beckenstein and will provide a specific price quote.

If you would like to know more about breast implant revision surgery, please request your comprehensive consultation using the online form or call (205) 933-9308 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Beckenstein at his office on St. Vincent’s Drive.

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