Revision Surgery
What is Reconstruction Revision Surgery?
Revision surgery is the second stage of your breast reconstruction. Once the initial surgery has been successful and your surgical wounds have healed (3-4 months), it is time to start refining your results. During your consultation with Dr Taylor, you will have the opportunity to discuss any areas of your reconstructed breast/s that you would like improved. This usually involves revising scars, excision of tissue/liposuction to reduce volume, positioning changes and, in some instances, a breast lift on the opposite side.
What Can I Expect with Revision Surgery?
A Quick Overview
Surgery time: 3 - 4 hours
Length of stay in hospital: 1 night
Recovery time: (The following are approximate times.)
Driving 1 week,
Office work 2 weeks,
Strenuous work/exercise 4-6 weeks.
Garments: Bra and knee length shorts compression garments 24/7 for 4 - 6 weeks (except when showering)
Incision and scar: Incision location and size will depend on the revision planned, though will be made through previous scars.
Other Things to Consider
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Revision surgery is commonly completed in conjunction with fat grafting for contouring of the breasts.
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Some patients may require more than one revision surgery to get the results they desire.
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Minor changes to the shape/ size of the breast can be done in conjunction with your nipple reconstruction. Major changes to the breast shape/ size require time to settle prior to a nipple reconstruction.
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Some patients are very happy with their initial reconstruction surgery and choose not to have any revision surgeries - this is your choice.
For more information on Breast Free Flap Revision Surgery, please download our Breast Free Flap Revision Surgery Information Sheet.