6 weeks post-op. Is it too soon to get a revision?

Question

I did an T-verted mastopexy with implants mentor high profile 300cc. I understand that the implants have not dropped yet but they look horrible. Can a qualified doctor please tell me if this is normal? My doctor and I have bad communication problems and he tells me that we can do a revision when it has gone 8 weeks total. Is it too soon to get a revision? Is it possible that this can be a good result and that I will not need a revision? Now I am 6 weeks post op

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

I’m sorry to hear of your experience, especially of the poor communication with your doctor. Every plastic surgeon has a different opinion, but I think the consensus is that waiting closer to 6 months results in better success of subsequent revision surgery if needed. based on your photos, it seems that you have some form of capsular contracture occurring, which is preventing the implant from falling off into the bottom of where the pocket was designed, behind the breast. At that time, most of the contractile/distorting shrinking forces have subsided before proceeding. After six months, most of the contractile/distorting shrinking forces have subsided but this could be a longer process, depending on your particular case. Consequently, with no expansile force behind the newly lifted T junction scar, the scar itself is not able to round out the way you want. In the meantime, I would ask your surgeon about Accolate or similar medication, which will help  the softening the breast encapsulation, as well as breast implant displacement exercises.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Dynamic943833,
I understand your concern. Most surgeons recommend patients to wait 6 months prior to revision surgery, However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Most surgeons would recommend waiting up to six months before having a revision. There are many advantages to waiting.  One, is that the appearance will likely improve over time and many patients no longer require a revision. Second, even those that do have a revision will often require a lesser procedure. Finally, waiting six months also allows the surgeon to work with more normal tissues, leading to better healing and more predictable outcomes.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! You do have to allow time for things to heal and the implants to settle; however, I do think a revision will be in your future to correct the lower pole. Best of luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry you are having issues regarding your surgery.  I encourage you to wait longer before considering a revision.  There will be changes ahead as your tissues heal and swelling resolves.  You still may need a revision in the future, however giving yourself more time to heal will give a more complete view of what needs to be done in order to improve your results.

6 weeks post-op. Is it too soon to get a revision?

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Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision timing

Answer: Revision timing

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6 weeks post-op. Is it too soon to get a revision?

Answers (6)

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision timing

Answer: Revision timing

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.