A breast implant is a prosthetic device used in reconstructive surgery; which alters the size and contour of the human breast. This type of plastic surgery is used to correct deformities and restore natural appearances of the breast.
People looking to increase their breast size also makes up a large portion of the breast implant population. The first plastic surgery for breast implants was performed during the late 1800s by surgeon Vincenz Czerny.
The objective of this fist operation was to repair a breast in symmetry; which had been previously removed because of a tumor. In the decades following Czerny’s first reconstructive breast operation, there has been much progress and developments in the plastic surgery industry.
One of the biggest advancements has been the filler material used in breast implants. Materials such as ground rubber, animal cartilage, and polyvinyl alcohol were used in the early 20th century.
Now, there are four main types of breast implant classifications. These implants can be differentiated by their filler material:
- silicone gel
- saline solution
- structured filler
- composite
Regardless of filler material used, breast implants are susceptible to wear and tear over long periods of time. In addition to this, plastic surgery may not go as planned; and breast augmentation may be necessary. Knowing when breast implant revision is needed can save you a lot of money; and more importantly, your health.
If a patient is not completely satisfied with the plastic surgery, there’s a chance that individual will seek another procedure to correct the issue(s). Statistics reveal that individuals with breast implants have a 20% breast revision rate around the 3 year mark following initial surgery.
A person’s natural body will also change over the years. As a result of this, breast implants may begin to take a different form. This presents an issue for individuals who prefer more natural looking breast.
Common breast revisions for those who are unsatisfied cosmetically include:
- lift
- reduction
- repositioning
A person may also realize post-surgery that the filler material they chose isn’t what they wanted. For this reason, breast revision also includes changing from one filler material to another.
Augmentation patients may seek breast implant revision if one or both implants become ruptured or damaged or if you have breast implant illness. This can not only cause the implant to deflate, but also increases risk of infection. The chances of a ruptured or leaking implant can vary depending on filling material.
Symptoms that you may have a ruptured/damaged implant device includes:
- chest pain
- swelling
- lumps
- hardening of the breast
Changes in scar tissue can also influence a patient’s decision to have a revision done. When there are changes in the skin and scar tissues over the implant tightens, capsular contracture can occur. Factors that increase the chances of capsular contracture include breast infection and internal bleeding. When this happens, the implant can shift into an undesired position.
For more than a century, doctors have been performing breast augmentation surgeries. Sometimes changes in a person’s life and/or body will influence their choice to get a breast augmentation. In addition to seeking a reputable and certified surgeon, it’s also important to know when implant revision is needed.
