While the natural breast tissue may undergo changes due to aging, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations, breast implants are stable devices that typically last for decades. However, at a certain point, some women may wish to undergo a breast revision to update their results. This second breast enhancement can help achieve the patient’s ideal physique and conform to her changing aesthetic sensibilities and lifestyle needs.
What are the most common reasons for undergoing a second breast augmentation?
- To go smaller — As women get older, many decide on a more modest, natural look. Others may be experiencing discomfort or back pain due to overly large devices. Today, there are many more shapes and sizes of implants available, and a woman may wish to take advantage of the newer technology.
- To go bigger — Some women desire an increase in their cup size and undergo a second augmentation procedure to obtain results more in line with their original vision. Others may be content with their implant sizes but feel that their implants do not project far enough from the chest.
- To address complications — When complications such as capsular contracture, rupture or leakage, or rippling occur, a secondary augmentation procedure can be performed to correct these issues. While complications can occur at any point after surgery, most manifest within the first 15 years.
- To address physical changes — Weight fluctuations can affect the way that the implants sit on the body. Significant weight loss could lead to the implants appearing too large. Additionally, a breast lift may be required to combat an increase in sagging skin. Pregnancy and breastfeeding will also change how the implants look.
How is breast augmentation easier the second time around?
- Less painful — Typically, the plastic surgeon will use the same incisions that were employed the first time around, minimizing scarring and discomfort. Since there is no need to make a new capsule within the chest, the surgery overall is much shorter and requires less downtime. Patients usually need fewer prescription painkillers afterward as well.
- Lower risks — Because a second breast augmentation procedure is shorter, there is less time spent under anesthesia, lowering your surgical risks. The probability of nausea and vomiting is greatly reduced.
- Less downtime — While patients will still need to rest and recuperate after surgery, they are usually able to return to work much sooner, within the first week. For some, a procedure performed on a Friday could allow them to resume work on Monday. Exercise can be resumed much sooner as well, usually within around 3 weeks rather than 6 weeks.
- Faster results — Because the body has already adjusted to the implants, the new devices will not need to drop into place as they did the first time around. The final result can be viewed much faster, usually within a few days after surgery. You’ll still need to wear a support bra for around 3 weeks to help promote your new look, but you won’t have to wait to buy new clothes and swimwear.
What is the takeaway?
If you are considering a second breast augmentation but are concerned about your recovery, know that the second time around is less stressful, time-consuming, and painful. You’ll already be familiar with the process, reducing your anxiety. The surgeon will not need to re-create the breast pocket from scratch and can re-use the same incisions as last time, minimizing scarring and discomfort. If you’re interested in learning more about how a second breast augmentation can enhance your self-image and quality of life, contact Dr. Wirth in Newport Beach today!