Revision on One Side - Breasts Now Uneven

Question

I underwent breast augmentation last year. My left breast settled into a beautiful position right away, but the right remained much higher/firmer for 7+ months. 3 weeks ago, my surgeon performed a pocket revision/capsulectomy on the right side. Now that side appears lower, fuller, and softer. I just saw my surgeon and he attributed it to swelling. Could this all be due to swelling, or is it a permanent difference due to removing the scar tissue? Will this even out over time? Thank you!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast revision surgery is performed for a number of reasons and factors related to the patient’s initial breast surgery. One reason is asymmetry. However, there's no guarantee the #asymmetry will simply be resolved with one breast revision. There are various reasons breasts can appear uneven or asymmetrical; which have to be taken into account when your surgeon determines the appropriate approach and technique for your #revision surgery. Typically, it's best to wait 6 to 12 months depending on the reason for #revision.  Matters such as sagging or drooping  and size change will not improve with time. As with all cosmetic surgery, results will be rewarding if expectations are realistic. With any surgical procedure, there are some risks which your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

You are only 3 weeks out from revisionary surgery so I would suggest that you give yourself time to heal and for the swelling to subside, the implant to settle, etc..  I would ask that you follow closely with your surgeon so that he/she can keep an eye on your recovery.  Generally, I ask patients to allow for 3-6 months for implants to settle, etc.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

After undergoing a breast capsulectomy for contracture, I would give it three months for everything to settle, swelling to go down, etc.  Alot of changes can occur after going in and releasing/removing scar tissue.  Sometimes this can make the implant sit lower that the other side, but at this point, I would give yourself time to heal and let everything seal up internally. From the photograph you attached, things look good, but there is a difference between the two sides currently. Just be patient right now and be happy with the positive fact that the breast is soft.  I suspect that when it is all said and done, your symmetry will be good.  If not, then at the three month mark, I would then address it with your surgeon.  I hope this helps.

David Nicholas Csikai, MD · Answer

It appears that your breasts were probably not exactly the same prior  to your surgery but now  that the right implant capsule has been revised or removed you have a difference in shape.  At this point I doubt it is  an issue with swelling.  The left side will most likely need a revision if  you want them to look the same.  Makes sure you take about this with your surgeon.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,

	 

	For this stage, you look pretty good although pre-operative images would tell us how much better. Contracture can recur so I would follow your surgeon's advice on aftercare to minimize this. How much similarity you can expect varies with the pre-operative picture and the surgery done to correct the problem. Your final picture will take time to achieve. 

	 

	Best Regards,

	 

	John Di Saia MD

Revision on One Side - Breasts Now Uneven

Answers (6)

Answer: Great implant revision

Answer: Great implant revision

Answer: Good early result

Answer: Good early result

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Revision on One Side - Breasts Now Uneven

Answers (6)

Answer: Great implant revision

Answer: Great implant revision

Answer: Good early result

Answer: Good early result

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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.