While most women who have breast augmentation surgery are pleased with their results for many years, some may need revision breast surgery because of a complication or change in preferences.
Assessment
Royal College-certified plastic surgeon and breast enhancement specialist Dr. Laura Snell will examine your existing implants during your consultation and discuss your concerns. It is important to share as many details as possible about your initial surgery. Keep in mind that we may recommend pairing your breast revision with a breast lift to help you achieve optimal results.
A TalentedTrio
With their expertise in plastic surgery, Dr. Derek Ford, Dr. Steven Hanna, and Dr. Laura Snell create attractive, natural-looking results using advanced techniques. All are Fellows of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada who provide compassionate patient care.
Your Breast Revision Procedure
While each patient’s needs vary, complex breast revision surgery can take between 1 to 3 hours. In many cases, Dr. Snell can use the same incisions as your original procedure to remove or replace the implants. In some cases, she may perform a capsulectomy to remove hardened scar tissue that has formed around the existing breast implants.
Revision breast surgery may be performed as soon as 6 months following your original procedure in some cases or many years after your initial breast augmentation. Every patient’s situation is unique, and Dr. Snell will work with you to determine the ideal time for your revision procedure.
How Much Does Breast Revision Surgery Cost in Toronto?
Revision breast surgery is a notoriously complex area within plastic surgery. It requires careful planning by an expert surgeon as well as a shared understanding of the end goal to achieve excellent results. Dr. Snell has a wealth of experience in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery techniques. She is one of only two surgeons offering breast reconstruction at Canada’s largest trauma centre and has vast experience in revision breast surgery. Because her approach is unique to each patient, the cost of your revision procedure can be provided only after an initial consultation.
Envision Your New Look
Our practice offers Crisalix, a way for patients to preview their results in 3D. This adds a tangible, visual element to your planning process, giving you and your plastic surgeon a common, beautiful goal.
Learn MoreComplex Breast Revision Recovery and Results
Recovery from a breast revision procedure depends on the complexity of the surgery. A patient with a straightforward implant removal or exchange will need a few days to 1 week of rest and downtime. Those who had a capsulectomy will likely need a longer recovery period.
Initial swelling and bruising are normal and gradually subside. Wearing a compression bra helps minimize pain and enhance comfort during healing. As you heal, you should refrain from heavy lifting and raising your arms above your head.
Your initial results should be noticeable within 3 months, but it may take up to a year to see the full effects of your breast revision. Women who maintain their ideal weight and live a healthy lifestyle can expect their results to be long-lasting.
Complex Breast Revision Surgery FAQ
How long do you have to wait for breast implant revision?
Can you have breast implants removed and replaced at the same time?
Does OHIP cover breast implant removal? Will insurance ever pay for breast implant removal?
How often do you have to replace breast implants?
How painful is breast revision surgery?
What is the revision rate for breast implants?
What is recovery from breast implant removal and replacement like?
How long do you have to wait for breast implant revision?
After breast augmentation, if you feel that you need to have your implants removed or replaced, we recommend waiting at least 12 months to allow your body to fully heal before having surgery on your breasts again.
Can you have breast implants removed and replaced at the same time?
Absolutely! Depending on your goals, we can remove and replace your breast implants. Depending on your skin laxity, we may recommend combining your breast augmentation revision with a breast lift as well.
Does OHIP cover breast implant removal? Will insurance ever pay for breast implant removal?
OHIP may cover breast implant removal in the case of severe capsular contracture. Insurance may also pay for capsular contracture treatment. They will not cover a breast lift or the insertion of a new implant for cosmetic purposes.
How often do you have to replace breast implants?
You only need to replace breast implants if there is a complication with the implant itself or the surgery. There is no set timeline for replacement — surgery is only needed if a concern arises.
How painful is breast revision surgery?
Breast revision surgery is typically well tolerated. Most patients go home the same day and manage discomfort with prescribed oral medication.
What is the revision rate for breast implants?
Several factors may bring a patient back for breast implant revision. These should be discussed with the surgeon during consultation. The risk of implant failure is approximately 1% per year, depending on individual circumstances.
What is recovery from breast implant removal and replacement like?
Most patients take 1–2 weeks off from non-strenuous work following breast implant revision surgery. Strenuous exercise and heavy work can typically be resumed after 4–6 weeks.
How long is recovery for a breast revision?
Recovery time depends on the specific revision procedure. Generally, patients can expect 2–3 weeks of bruising and swelling and about 3 weeks of limited activity (no heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or overhead activity).
Take The Next Step
If you are concerned about your existing implants or simply want a change, request a consultation online with Dr. Snell at Ford Plastic Surgery or call our Toronto office at (416) 925-7337 to schedule your appointment.