7 Signs You May Need a Breast Augmentation Revision

Even the most successful breast augmentation results can benefit from revision surgery at some point. Whether due to complications or personal preference, a revision procedure can help restore your confidence and shapely, youthful contours. Below, we cover some of the most common signs you may need breast augmentation revision.

What Is Revision Surgery?

Breast augmentation revision is a procedure that involves replacing or removing a patient’s existing breast implants. The surgery shares some of the same techniques used during the initial augmentation procedure, but it is a more complicated operation.

For example, during revision surgery, the scar tissue that has formed around the implants and stretched skin pose challenges that don’t exist when inserting breast implants for the first time. Successful breast augmentation revision operations require a surgeon with specialized training. Learn more about how primary breast augmentation and revision surgery compare in our related blog post.

Reasons for Revision Surgery

Breast implants are not meant to last forever, so women who undergo breast augmentation should be aware that they may need future revision surgery. Complications are rare, but they do happen and may make revision a necessity. Here are the most common reasons we see patients get breast augmentation revision surgery:

#1. Discomfort or Pain

Breast implants should not cause chronic pain or discomfort. However, a feeling of tightness, aching, or sharp pain—especially if these symptoms are new—could indicate a problem such as capsular contracture. This condition occurs when scar tissue hardens around the implant, squeezing it and potentially distorting its shape.

Revision surgery can relieve this discomfort by removing the hardened capsule and replacing the implant, if desired. If you’re unsure whether your pain is implant-related, it’s important to schedule a consultation to get a clear diagnosis and peace of mind.

#2. Changes in Your Breast Tissue

Aging, pregnancy, or significant weight loss can change the shape of your breasts. These changes can cause breast implants to look less natural, and breast augmentation revision surgery may be needed to restore your results.

#3. Capsular Contracture

Incidents of capsular contracture are declining, but this condition remains the primary complication associated with breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens. The squeezed implant moves into an unwanted position and feels hard. Severe cases can be painful.

Our ‘no-touch’ breast augmentation technique using the Keller Funnel® minimizes bacterial contamination during implant placement, helping reduce the risk of capsular contracture. Other, less common complications usually require revision surgery.

#4. Changes in Implant Shape or Position

Over time, your implants can shift, drop, or even rotate, and you might notice your breasts looking uneven or one sitting lower than the other. In some cases, this is part of the natural aging process. In others, it can be due to poor tissue support, weight fluctuations, or issues with implant placement.

If these changes are noticeable or bothersome, revision surgery can restore a balanced, natural-looking result. In some cases, our surgeons may recommend inserting an internal bra during revision surgery or choosing a different implant profile to support long-term results.

#5. Visible Wrinkling or Rippling

Rippling typically occurs when there’s not enough tissue coverage over the implant, especially in thinner patients or when implants are placed above the muscle. You may notice visible lines or folds on the breast surface, especially when bending forward or lying down.

While minor rippling may not require revision, more pronounced or asymmetrical changes can affect your confidence and comfort. Switching to silicone implants, repositioning them under the muscle, or incorporating fat transfer often resolves these issues. If you’re thinking about making a change, take a look at what to consider before upgrading your implants to see what factors might influence your decision.

#6. Implant Rupture or Deflation

Ruptures can happen with both saline and silicone implants, though the signs are different. With saline implants, the breast will typically deflate quickly as the fluid disperses. Silicone ruptures are often more subtle and usually require imaging to detect.

During revision surgery, your surgeon will remove the damaged implant, correct any internal issues, and place a new implant, often with an updated style or material.

#7. Your Goals Have Changed

Sometimes, the signs you may need a breast augmentation revision have less to do with complications and more to do with personal choice. Your ideal body shape and preferences may evolve over time. You might want a different implant size, a more natural look, or even to have your implants removed altogether.

Revision surgery allows you to realign your appearance with your current lifestyle and cosmetic goals. At Synergy, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons takes the time needed to understand what you want from your results so your updated look feels true to you.

What To Expect With Breast Revision Surgery

Surgical revision is often more complex than primary breast augmentation, especially if it involves complications like scar tissue or implant malposition. That’s why choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both primary and revision procedures is so important.

Our surgeons at Synergy Plastic Surgery regularly perform breast augmentation revision surgeries. We’re here to guide you through every step, from diagnosis to recovery, with compassionate care and expert results.

Breast Augmentation Revision FAQ

How do I know if I need a breast revision or just a lift?
A breast lift repositions sagging tissue, while a revision addresses implant-related issues. In many cases, you can combine both procedures to achieve the best outcome.

Is it safe to have multiple breast surgeries?
Yes. As long as you’re healthy and working with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, you can safely perform multiple surgeries in one procedure.

What is the recovery like after revision surgery?
Most patients find recovery from revision surgery similar to their original procedure, though it can vary based on the complexity of the revision.

Will I need to replace my implants again in the future?
Implants aren’t lifetime devices, but many patients enjoy long-term results. If you have silicone implants, it’s important to schedule regular monitoring—such as an MRI or high-resolution ultrasound every few years—to check for silent ruptures and touch base with your plastic surgeon for ongoing care.

Can I switch from saline to silicone implants?
Absolutely. Many women choose to upgrade to silicone during a revision for a more natural look and feel.

Take the Next Step Toward Feeling Like Yourself Again

If you’re noticing any of these signs, you may need a breast augmentation revision. Don’t wait to get the answers you need. A consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons can help you explore your options and feel confident about your next steps.

Request a consultation or call our office at (512) 244-1439 to let us help you love your look again.