Here are the main issues to be addressed with these procedures.
- Changing the implant size
Sometimes a patient wishes she had different sized implants. Often the goal is a somewhat larger size. In these scenarios, Dr. Yates advises the patient to wait one full year before making any change, as this allows for any swelling to fully subside and for the implants to settle. If the patient still wants to change her implant size, Dr. Yates will enter through the original incision. If a larger implant is desired, he will increase the size of the pocket, the space in the breast to hold the implant. If the patient seeks smaller implants, he will reduce the size of the pocket to fit the smaller implants. In cases of reduction, a breast lift may be done in conjunction with the implant revision to remove any sagging tissue and possibly relocate the nipples.
- Capsular contracture
Capsular contracture is a potential complication with breast augmentation. The body creates a “capsule” around any foreign body, this is simply a scar tissue response and typically this leads to no problems. If this capsule becomes very thick and causes the implant to shift or the breast to feel very firm, or if there is pain from the constricting scar tissue, this is called capsular contracture. If the capsule is very calcified it can require surgery and Dr. Yates will remove it along with the implant. If there is a rupture of a silicone implant, the capsule may contain silicone shell fragments, silicone gel, and inflammatory cells that all need to be removed prior to placing new implants. This is especially the case with silicone implants older than 15 years. Because newer implants feature a much more cohesive silicone gel, if rupture occurs the gel tends to stay within the implant.
- Implant position
Sometimes breast implants will heal in an undesirable position and the patient is not happy with the placement. In these cases, Dr. Yates will use scar tissue from the capsule and will reconstruct new pockets for the implants in better positions. This is often a good indication for an internal bra, adding strength and support through additional material
- Implant rippling
Implant rippling is a problem that occurs most commonly with saline implants. It also happens more commonly when the implants are placed atop the chest muscle, and they show rippling or even the edges of the implants can be felt. In these cases, Dr. Yates enters through the original incisions and replaces better quality implants often with better muscle coverage. This may involve switching implant types and/or placing them in new breast pockets.
- Implant removal
Often older patients can’t envision going into old age with implants, so they seek to remove the implants and usually opt for a breast lift. Dr. Yates removes the implants through the same incisions, and he usually will also remove the capsule if it is calcified and thick. In most cases, a breast lift will be almost necessary because the skin has stretched with the implant size. A lift will remove this excess skin and breast tissue and bring the smaller breasts back up higher on the chest.
While breast augmentation is a life-changing procedure, the results may not be what the patient had hoped for. Of course, expectations need to be realistic. But this is another reason to opt for a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience, such as Dr. Yates, to perform the surgery. Do your research beforehand and the odds are you’ll be happy with your results.
Are you interested in breast augmentation, or do you have questions about a procedure performed elsewhere? Call Dr. Yates at (801) 525-8741 and schedule a consultation.