Posted February 04, 2014 in Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery procedure in America, with over 300,000 procedures performed each year, according to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). This surgery can help a woman feel more attractive and confident in herself. Although breast augmentation surgery is generally safe and complications are infrequent, there are occasional situations where a secondary breast augmentation, or breast revision, surgery should be performed.
Capsular Contracture
The breast capsule is a layer of fibrous tissue that forms around the implant during recovery after the breast augmentation procedure. This capsule is usually a thin, flexible layer that holds the implant in place. Inflammation may cause the capsule to thicken and constrict the implant. This is called capsular contracture, and it compresses the implant and generally makes the breast feel rigid and appear abnormal. Capsulectomy, a surgical procedure that removes the tissue capsule, can correct this complication. In most cases, the old implant is removed and replaced with a new one.
Implant Rupture
Breast implants are not considered lifetimes devices and can sometimes break, or rupture, within the breast. A saline implant rupture will be immediately obvious as the breast appears to deflate, and the body will safely absorb the saline solution. A silicone implant rupture is not always noticeable, and an MRI screening may be needed to determine if one has occurred. With a rupture of either implant type, the damaged implant is removed and replaced with a new one.
Implant Displacement
Although rare, breast implants can sometimes move out of their original position. The following complications are associated with implant displacement:
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Implants too high on the chest
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Implants too close together (symmastia)
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Implants below the breast tissue (bottoming out)
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Implants under the armpit
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Implants too far apart
A secondary breast augmentation procedure to correct these complications generally involves the creation of a new breast pocket by suturing the existing breast capsule to hold the implant in the correct position.
Dr. Charles A. Messa evaluates each patient to determine the best technique for her breast revision surgery based on individual circumstances. Dr. Messa has extensive experience in breast surgeries and makes sure his patients are completely informed about all aspects of the procedure. To schedule your consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon at Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center, please call (954) 659-7760 or feel free to fill out our online contact form today.