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Breast Revision
Breast augmentation surgery is often one of the most transformative cosmetic procedures that women undergo. But due to issues that may include undesirable outcomes such as poor breast shape, implant malposition, or complications like capsular contracture, you might not be able to enjoy the results of your breast surgery. Or, perhaps your tastes have evolved, and you merely want to change the size or type of your breast implants. With breast revision surgery, you can take control of functional irregularities and aesthetic concerns affecting your implants, allowing you to achieve the results you desire finally.
NYC breast surgeon Dr. David Cangello is happy to discuss your treatment options. His renowned results from breast surgery have made him a surgeon of choice for models from some of the top agencies in the world – including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management. Dr. Cangello creates elegant, natural-looking results to complement every patient’s figure.
Contact plastic surgeon Dr. David Cangello today at (212) 644-4416 to schedule a consultation for breast implant replacement or breast revision in NYC.
What is Breast Revision Surgery?
Breast revision surgery is performed to correct concerns from a previous breast augmentation surgery, whether due to implant complications, changes in breast shape, or a desire to modify implant size or type. The procedure is highly customized, as each patient has unique goals and anatomical considerations.1
Some women seek breast implant revision surgery to address issues such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, implant malposition, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with previous results. Others may choose to replace their silicone or saline implants with a different type of implant or opt for implant removal altogether. In many cases, additional surgical procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, may be recommended to achieve optimal breast symmetry and contour.
Because revision surgery is often more complex than an initial breast augmentation, it’s essential to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in reconstructive breast procedures. Dr. David L. Cangello, a leading plastic surgeon in NYC and Manhattan, specializes in breast implant revision surgery and develops a customized surgical plan based on each patient’s aesthetic goals and medical history.
Additional Procedures That May Be Included in Breast Revision
As part of your breast revision surgery, Dr. Cangello may perform one or more of the following procedures to optimize your results and ensure the best possible breast symmetry and aesthetic outcome:
Breast Implant Replacement
Women who would like a different size, shape, or type of implant will undergo a breast implant replacement procedure. This is a relatively straightforward process, but additional revision procedures may be necessary if there is excess scar tissue or significant breast sagging. Some patients also choose to undergo breast augmentation via fat transfer instead of replacing their implants.
Breast Lift
A breast lift is sometimes performed to restore the breasts to a more elevated and youthful position on the chest. It is frequently recommended when the patient opts for breast implant removal without replacement. A breast lift may also be performed during breast implant replacement or when correcting a double bubble deformity.
Capsulotomy or Capsulectomy
A capsulotomy or capsulectomy is performed for patients experiencing capsular contracture, a condition in which scar tissue tightens around the breast implants, causing discomfort or distortion. A capsulotomy involves surgically releasing the scar tissue, while a capsulectomy removes it entirely. In some cases, a partial capsulectomy combined with capsulotomy may be performed. After the scar tissue has been addressed, new breast implants can be placed to restore a natural breast appearance.
Common Reasons for Breast Revision
There are many reasons why women decide to undergo a second cosmetic breast surgery. Explore the list below to discover some of the most common conditions and circumstances that motivate patients to pursue treatment:
Dissatisfaction with Implant Size, Type, or Shape
Cosmetic preferences evolve with age, and you may find that the look you desired in your twenties no longer aligns with your current aesthetic goals. Perhaps you have never been satisfied with the results of your initial breast augmentation. In either case, revision surgery allows you to obtain the look you want with new implants. Dr. Cangello, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, works with you to create a custom treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and cosmetic vision.
Implant Rupture
A breast implant rupture occurs when the outer shell of the silicone or saline implant develops a tear. This can be caused by physical trauma, the age of the implant, compression during a mammogram, and other factors. When a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution leaks out, leaving behind a collapsed breast. The saline is harmless and is absorbed by the body.
Silicone implants are form-stable, meaning a rupture might not be immediately noticeable—this is known as a “silent rupture.” If you suspect a silicone implant rupture, an MRI can detect any leakage. Once a rupture is confirmed, implant removal is recommended. Many women opt for breast implant replacement with new implants after removing their ruptured ones.
Asymmetry
Breast asymmetry can occur naturally or as a result of a previous breast augmentation surgery. If one implant is positioned higher, lower, or differently shaped than the other, the breasts may appear unbalanced. Revision surgery can correct asymmetry by adjusting implant size, replacing different-sized implants, or repositioning the existing implants for improved breast symmetry. Dr. Cangello tailors every revision procedure to create natural breast contours and optimal balance.
Patient Experiences
“Dr. Cangello’s smile, coupled by his calm and confident demeanor, made me look forward to my breast implant replacement. I trusted him, and I am delighted to say that he exceeded my expectations. I had the easiest recovery, and my replacement looks so natural and it is super flattering. His staff was the best team I have been around in a long time. Their compassion and empathy allowed for everything to run smoothly, which facilitated a successful surgery. Being in the hands of a capable caring surgeon and having results that exceeded my expectations have been the best investment I have ever done in my entire life. Thank you Dr. Cangello.”
—S.P.
Breast Implant Removal
Whether due to a change in lifestyle, medical concerns, or dissatisfaction with results, some women decide they no longer want breast implants. In these cases, implant removal surgery is an option. If the implants were relatively large, removing them may cause breast tissue to appear deflated. A breast lift may be performed alongside implant removal to restore a natural breast shape.
Implant Malposition
When breast implants shift from their intended position—either due to capsular contracture, weight loss, aging, or trauma—it is known as implant malposition. This condition may cause breast asymmetry, making the breasts look too high, too low, too far apart, or too close together (symmastia). A revision procedure can correct malposition and restore a balanced, symmetrical look.
Breast Rippling
Rippling or wrinkling sometimes occurs along the edges of saline implants, particularly in women with minimal breast tissue. This creates visible folds beneath the skin, resulting in an unnatural breast appearance. During your initial consultation for breast revision in NYC, Dr. Cangello will assess whether replacing saline implants with silicone implants or adding extra breast tissue coverage through fat transfer or dermal allografts, such as AlloDerm, is the best solution for achieving a smoother, more natural contour.
“Double Bubble” Deformity
A double bubble deformity is a rare complication that occurs when a breast implant moves below the natural breast crease, creating a second bulge beneath the breast tissue. It can also occur if capsular contracture pushes the implant higher than intended, causing the lower portion of the breast to appear loose or deflated. Revision surgery is required to correct this issue, and a breast lift may be recommended to achieve the most aesthetic result.
Bottoming Out
Bottoming out occurs when a breast implant settles too low on the chest, causing the nipple to appear higher than normal on the breast mound. This can result from implant size, improper placement, inadequate tissue support, or weight loss. Correction involves repositioning the implant, reinforcing the lower breast fold, and, in some cases, performing a breast lift to restore a natural breast contour.
David L. Cangello, MD, FACS Plastic Surgery New York
Dr. David Cangello is one of the top board-certified plastic surgeons in all of New York City. His approach of treating plastic surgery with an artistic eye has successfully shaped his practice. Dr. Cangello cares about the result of the surgery as much as the patient does. Read more to learn why you should choose Dr. Cangello for your next procedure.
Schedule a ConsultationWhy Choose Dr. David Cangello for Breast Revision?
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, renowned for his expertise in breast implant revision surgery and aesthetic breast enhancement. With extensive experience in reconstructive and cosmetic breast procedures, Dr. Cangello combines surgical precision with an artistic approach to deliver natural-looking results tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Patients in Manhattan and NYC choose Dr. Cangello for breast revision surgery because of his commitment to personalized care, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to correct complex concerns such as capsular contracture, implant malposition, asymmetry, and ruptured implants. Whether you seek a subtle enhancement, a breast lift, or a complete revision procedure, Dr. Cangello offers customized solutions to achieve the most balanced, symmetrical, and natural results.
Located on Park Avenue, Dr. Cangello’s practice provides state-of-the-art surgical procedures in a private, fully accredited operating facility, ensuring safety, comfort, and accessibility for patients throughout New York City and beyond.
Your Consultation for Breast Revision in NYC
Dr. Cangello understands that patients may be overwhelmed with their options for a second breast surgery. For this reason, he strives to facilitate comfortable, informative initial consultations that allow you to understand your options fully.
Breast revision is highly customizable, and your treatment plan will depend on various factors such as your anatomy and the extent of functional or cosmetic irregularities of your current implants. During the consultation, Dr. Cangello will conduct a physical examination of your breasts, and he will address any questions or concerns you may have about your potential procedure.
Likewise, he guides you through your options – including implant size, shape, and type for those undergoing implant replacement – and he helps you explore additional procedures such as fat transfer. Fat transfer can produce modest size enlargement of the breasts using your fat, and many patients find this to be an attractive alternative to having breast implants. Whether you’re seeking breast implant replacement or another procedure, Dr. Cangello creates a custom treatment plan that meets your cosmetic tastes and preferences.
Preparing for Breast Revision Surgery
Preparing for breast revision surgery involves several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal healing. During your initial consultation, Dr. Cangello will review your medical history, discuss aesthetic goals, and develop a customized revision procedure plan. If you are replacing breast implants, you’ll discuss options for implant size, shape, and type to achieve your desired outcome.
Before surgery, you may need to undergo medical evaluations, adjust certain medications, and stop smoking to promote healing. If you are taking blood-thinning medications or supplements, Dr. Cangello will provide guidance on when to discontinue them. Patients should also arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery and assist with daily activities during the first few days of recovery.
What to Expect from Breast Revision Surgery
Breast revision surgery is performed under general anesthesia at Dr. Cangello’s accredited surgical facility in NYC. The procedure varies based on your specific concerns but may involve breast implant replacement, implant removal, capsulectomy, fat transfer, or a breast lift. Dr. Cangello carefully follows your customized plan to correct implant malposition, capsular contracture, asymmetry, or other concerns, ensuring a natural breast appearance and improved breast symmetry.
Depending on the complexity of your revision procedure, surgery can take between two to four hours. Incisions are typically made along the existing breast augmentation scars whenever possible to minimize additional scar tissue. Once the necessary surgical procedures are completed, sutures are placed, and a supportive surgical bra is applied to aid in healing.
Recovery After Breast Revision
Recovery from breast revision surgery is similar to that of an initial breast augmentation, though the timeline can vary based on the extent of the revision procedure. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are expected in the first week, and prescription pain medication may be recommended to manage any discomfort. Most patients can return to light activities within a week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks.
Dr. Cangello provides detailed post-operative instructions to support proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Wearing a supportive bra as recommended can help maintain implant positioning and minimize swelling. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing. As swelling subsides and breast tissue settles, final results will become more apparent, revealing a natural, symmetrical, and refined breast shape.
Schedule a consultation for breast implant replacement or breast revision in NYC by calling Dr. David Cangello at (212) 644-4416.
Breast Revision FAQs
Many patients ask if they must replace their implants every ten years. Most surgeons would not perform surgery on a patient who is not experiencing any problems with her current implants. If you are experiencing breast pain, or if you notice a change in the shape of your breasts or increased firmness of the breasts, these may be indications that you need breast implant replacement. If you discover that an implant has ruptured, this is another indication for breast implant replacement.
If you are unhappy with the results of your recent breast augmentation, it’s important to understand that it may take time for your breasts to fully settle. Due to swelling, the final results of your breast augmentation might not be apparent for up to six months. It’s best to wait until six months to a full year after your breast augmentation before considering a second surgery.
Unfortunately, when a patient experiences capsular contracture, she is at increased risk for having it again in the future. While surgery can indeed correct capsular contracture, it’s important to understand that capsular contracture may recur.
Yes, breast revision surgery offers an opportunity to modify the size, shape, or profile of your breasts. Whether you want to switch to a different implant size or type, refine your breast contour, or correct asymmetry, Dr. Cangello will work with you to achieve your desired results. Many women also choose to combine breast revision with a breast lift to restore a youthful, elevated position on the chest.
The cost of breast revision surgery in NYC and Manhattan varies depending on factors such as the type of implant used, the complexity of the revision procedure, and whether a breast lift or additional corrections are needed. During your initial consultation at Dr. Cangello’s Park Avenue practice, he will evaluate your surgical needs and provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan.