Breast Revision

Breast implants aren’t meant to last forever; sometimes, your goals or body change before they do. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort from capsular contracture, dealing with a rupture, or simply want to change the size or type of your implants, living with unsatisfying results can take a physical and emotional toll.

At Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, breast revision surgery is a personalized solution designed to restore comfort and balance. Whether you’re replacing old implants or correcting a complication, we will help you achieve results that feel right for you, now and for years to come.

What Is Breast Revision? 

Breast revision surgery, or breast implant replacement, is a procedure that typically involves removing and/or replacing saline or silicone implants. The goal is to restore a more comfortable, natural-looking, and youthful breast appearance.

When to Consider Breast Revision

Breast revision may be the right choice if your implants no longer feel or look the way you intended. Common reasons include:

• Your saline breast implants have deflated, or an X-ray or MRI suggests your silicone implant has a shell leak
• If you want to change your implant/breast size to better match your current aesthetic goals
• If you have tightening of the scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture) 
• If your breast implants have shifted in position, causing asymmetry or distortion in your breast shape
• If your breast tissue has changed as a result of skin stretching or weight loss/gain

If you’re noticing any of these changes, a personalized revision procedure can help you achieve a result that feels more aligned with where you are now.

Benefits of Breast Revision

Restored Breast Symmetry and Shape

Breast revision can correct unevenness caused by implant shifting, capsular contracture, or natural tissue changes. The procedure helps restore a more balanced, natural-looking breast contour.

Relief from Discomfort or Complications

Capsular contracture, implant rupture, and other complications can cause pain or tightness. Revision surgery addresses these issues to restore physical comfort.

Updated Look with New Implant Options

Modern implants offer improved materials, shapes, and textures for a more refined result. Revision surgery allows you to change implant type, size, or profile to better match your current aesthetic goals.

Personalized Results

The procedure is customized based on your unique anatomy, surgical history, and preferences. We will tailor the approach to create results that feel and look more aligned with your desired outcome.

Choosing the Right Implant for Your Revision

If you’re replacing your implants during revision surgery, selecting the right type is key to achieving your updated goals. Modern implants come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and profiles, offering more options than ever before. 

Whether you’re switching from saline to silicone, increasing projection, or refining shape, your surgeon will help guide the decision based on your anatomy and preferences. Today’s implants are designed with improved durability and a more natural feel, offering subtle but meaningful enhancements compared to earlier generations.

Risks and Considerations for Breast Revision

While breast revision is a safe and common procedure, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved. As with any surgery, complications can occur. These may include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant rupture, or the need for additional procedures in the future.

At Northstate Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kevin D. Myers takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to minimize risk and support optimal outcomes. You’ll receive a detailed procedure overview during your consultation, including how risks are managed based on your medical history, anatomy, and surgical goals.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Breast revision surgery is tailored to your unique needs, but most procedures follow a similar structure. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Anesthesia and Surgical Setting

Breast revision is performed under general anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Surgery takes place in an accredited outpatient surgical center, and most patients can return home the same day with detailed post-op instructions.

Incision Placement

We will carefully plan the incision location based on your anatomy, prior surgery, and desired outcome. Incisions may be made in one of the following areas:

• Inframammary incision – along the fold under the breast
• Periareolar incision – around the edge of the areola
• Existing scar – using or revising a prior incision site

We will choose the best approach to minimize new scarring while ensuring optimal access to the implant pocket.

Implant Removal, Replacement, or Adjustment

During surgery, your existing implants will be removed and, if desired, replaced with new ones. The implant pocket may be reshaped, repositioned, or reinforced to accommodate your new implants and correct any issues from your previous surgery. If you’re switching implant types, changing sizes, or adjusting placement (such as from over- to under-the-muscle), your surgeon will tailor the technique accordingly.

Additional Procedures (if needed)

Depending on your needs, your surgeon may also perform:

• Capsulectomy – removal of hardened scar tissue (capsular contracture)
• Breast lift – to address sagging or stretched skin
• Tissue reshaping – to enhance symmetry or correct irregularities

Duration of Surgery

Breast revision surgery typically takes one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments like a lift or capsulectomy are included. You’ll recover in a monitored setting before being discharged with instructions for aftercare.

Recovery & Aftercare for Breast Revision Surgery

Recovery is a key part of your surgical outcome. At Northstate Plastic Surgery, we emphasize clear, supportive aftercare to help ensure your breast revision results heal smoothly and predictably. Every patient heals at their own pace, but here’s what you can typically expect:

Immediate Post-Op Period

Following your procedure, you’ll be monitored in the recovery area before being released to go home the same day. It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness in the chest. These side effects typically peak within the first 48–72 hours and gradually begin to subside. You may be prescribed oral pain medication and antibiotics to help manage discomfort and prevent infection during the initial healing phase.

We recommend having a trusted adult stay with you for the first 24 hours to assist with basic tasks, as your range of motion may be temporarily limited.

Support Garments

You’ll be advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to reduce swelling and support your healing breasts. This helps maintain proper implant positioning and promotes a more comfortable recovery.

Activity Restrictions

Activity should be limited during the first few weeks of recovery to protect your surgical results and promote healing.

Weeks 1–2

Focus on rest and avoid lifting anything heavier than 5–10 pounds. Do not raise your arms above shoulder level or engage in upper-body strain. Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Weeks 3–4

You may resume light household tasks and non-strenuous activities depending on your healing. Continue to avoid chest-focused exercise and overhead movements.

Week 6 and Beyond

Most patients are cleared for low-impact workouts, followed by more vigorous activity once healing is confirmed. Always follow your surgeon’s timeline and don’t rush the return to physical activity, especially when it comes to weightlifting or cardio that involves bouncing or chest engagement.

Follow-Up Appointments

You’ll have several follow-up visits scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure your recovery stays on track. During these visits, we will:

• Evaluate healing and tissue response
• Check implant positioning and symmetry
• Remove sutures (if non-dissolvable)
• Address any swelling, bruising, or concerns you may have

Follow-ups are a vital part of your care plan, and we encourage patients to keep all appointments—even if everything feels fine—to catch any issues early and support optimal results.

Final Results

Swelling will diminish gradually over several weeks. Final results are typically visible within two to three months after surgery. With proper care, incision scars will continue to fade over time, often improving for up to a year.

Long-Term Maintenance After Breast Revision

After your revision, it’s important to stay on top of long-term breast health. Regular self-exams and routine follow-ups help ensure your results remain stable.

If you have silicone implants, we may recommend periodic MRIs or ultrasounds to monitor for silent rupture. While breast implants don’t have an official expiration date, many patients choose to update or remove them every 10 to 15 years based on personal goals or physical changes.

How To Prepare for Breast Revision Surgery

Proper preparation can help your procedure and recovery go as smoothly as possible. In the weeks leading up to surgery, we will provide personalized instructions based on your health, medications, and surgical plan. Below are some general steps you can expect:

1–2 Weeks Before Surgery

• Stop smoking and vaping if applicable, as nicotine can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Unless otherwise instructed, avoid blood-thinning medications or supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E.
• Fill any prescriptions you’ll need after surgery (pain medications, antibiotics, etc.) beforehand.

The Day Before Surgery

• Do not eat or drink after midnight unless your surgeon gives different instructions.
• Set up a recovery area at home with extra pillows, easy-to-reach essentials, and loose-fitting clothing.
• Confirm transportation arrangements, as you cannot drive yourself home.

What to Bring on Surgery Day

• A photo ID and any required paperwork
• Your prescription medications (in original bottles)
• Glasses instead of contacts (if applicable)
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that buttons or zips in the front
• A small bag with personal items like lip balm or a phone charger

Post-Surgery Support

Make sure a trusted adult can stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure. This person can help with meal prep, medications, and mobility while you rest and begin your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Revision Surgery

How long after my original breast augmentation can I have a revision?

Most surgeons recommend waiting at least six months to a year after your initial surgery unless a complication, such as implant rupture or capsular contracture, requires earlier intervention. This allows your body time to fully heal and settle before undergoing another procedure.

Will I need to replace both implants, or just one?

In some cases, only one implant may need to be replaced, especially if there’s a rupture or asymmetry. However, both implants are often addressed during revision surgery for balanced results. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach during your consultation.

What types of implants are available if I choose to replace mine?

You can choose from various FDA-approved implant options, including saline, silicone, or structured implants. Modern implants also vary in size, shape, and texture, allowing for a more customized result.

Will my revision surgery involve a breast lift?

A breast lift may be recommended if sagging or stretched skin affects your results. This can be done during the same procedure to improve breast position and shape.

Does insurance cover breast revision surgery?

Most breast revision procedures are considered elective and are not covered by insurance. However, if the surgery is medically necessary, such as when correcting a rupture, some insurance plans may provide partial coverage. Our office can assist with documentation and verification.

Why Choose Northstate Plastic Surgery?

At Northstate Plastic Surgery, your care is guided by the expertise of board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Kevin D. Myers. With years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive breast, body, and face procedures, Dr. Myers brings precision, artistry, and a deep understanding of each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. Whether you’re pursuing breast revision to correct complications or to update your results, you can expect thoughtful guidance, personalized surgical planning, and a supportive experience from consultation to recovery. 

Expert Breast Revision Starts Here in Chico, CA

If your current breast implants no longer suit your body, lifestyle, or goals, breast revision surgery can help you achieve the refreshed results you’re looking for. Whether you’re seeking comfort, symmetry, or an updated aesthetic, Northstate Plastic Surgery will guide you every step of the way.

Contact us online or call today at (530) 345-5900 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kevin D. Myers. We proudly serve patients throughout Chico, CA and the surrounding Northstate region.

For more information visit The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.