Breast reconstruction is a meaningful step forward after a breast cancer diagnosis, but for some women, it may not always deliver the results they hoped for. At Bedford Breast Center, our surgeons specialize in breast revision surgery for women in Beverly Hills, the Greater Los Angeles area, Orange County, Ventura County, and beyond, helping them move forward with confidence and feel at home in their bodies again.
When Is Breast Reconstruction Revision Necessary?
There are several circumstances in which revision breast reconstruction becomes the right path forward. When scar tissue forms around a breast implant, a condition known as capsular contracture, it can cause painful hardening and a distorted appearance. Radiation therapy delivered after initial surgery can affect breast tissue over time, leading to implant malposition or changes in shape, volume, or symmetry. Some women also carry the physical and emotional weight of prominent scarring left by older mastectomy techniques. If any of these situations sound familiar, a revision reconstruction corrective surgery may be exactly what you need.
“From the moment I entered the Bedford Breast Center the care was exceptional. I was met with the utmost compassion, which made everything feel easy and calm. The office is stunning and calming and the providers are knowledgeable, kind and professional. Everything possible was done to ensure I was at ease and had all of my questions answered. I feel blessed to have been referred here.”
Beverly T. – Google
What Is the Goal of Breast Reconstruction Revision?
The central aim of revision procedures is to correct the shortcomings of an initial reconstruction and achieve breast reconstruction outcomes that are balanced, natural-looking, and personally meaningful to you. Our surgeons approach every revision with both technical precision and a genuine understanding of what is at stake: your comfort, your confidence, and your quality of life.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Revision Surgery?
You may be a good candidate for breast revision if you are dissatisfied with the results of a previous reconstruction, whether that surgery took place recently or years ago. Candidates may be dealing with implant reconstruction that no longer looks or feels right, concerns about saline implants or silicone implants that have shifted or failed, implant complications such as implant rupture, breast asymmetry that was never fully corrected, or changes that developed gradually over time. During your consultation, we will review your medical history in detail and discuss your goals to determine the most appropriate approach for your situation.
Unparalleled Expertise With a Compassionate Touch
Dr. Richardson and Dr. Memsic are two of the top breast surgeons in Los Angeles, using innovative techniques to create excellent clinical and aesthetic outcomes.
Revision reconstruction is a surgical procedure that demands a sophisticated combination of surgical skill, creative problem-solving, and meticulous attention to detail. Our surgeons are experienced in addressing the full range of complications that can follow a prior reconstruction, including issues involving the chest wall, implant removal, and significant tissue changes caused by radiation.
A board-certified plastic & reconstructive surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of your unique circumstances and walk you through every available option, which may include implant exchange, fat grafting to restore volume and improve contour, scar revision, or a transition from implant-based reconstruction to a flap-based approach. Whichever path makes the most sense for you, we will ensure you are fully informed and confident before moving forward.
What Is Recovery Like?
The recovery process following breast reconstruction revision varies depending on the extent of your procedure. Most patients experience some degree of discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial weeks, all of which gradually resolve with time and proper care. Our team will provide thorough aftercare guidance, closely monitor your healing, and remain available to address any questions or concerns that arise along the way.
Breast Reconstruction Revision Featured Before & After Photos
Case: 1 of 5
This 57-year-old patient from La Jolla, CA has a long history of breast cancer and previously underwent multiple surgeries including two lumpectomies and mastectomy with breast reconstruction with tissue expanders. The latter lead to a staph infection, which caused significant scarring and asymmetry. Dr. Lisa Cassileth performed a breast reco... Read More
This 55-year-old patient from Los Angeles underwent a bilateral breast reconstruction that resulted in capsular contracture, asymmetry, divots, and painful scars in the inframammary crease. Dr. Cassileth performed a breast reconstruction revision procedure with implant removal and replacement, scar revision, and fat grafting. Read More
From Venice, California, this patient had previous TRAM flap surgery with another surgeon. She desired improvement in the appearance of her reconstructed breasts. Her first surgery with Dr. Cassileth consisted of a right breast implant placement, bilateral scar revisions and bilateral fat grafting. Six months later Dr. Cassileth reconstructed... Read More
This 49-year-old patient from British Columbia, Canada previously underwent breast reconstruction and was unhappy with the aesthetic outcome. To address the lumpiness and asymmetry of her breasts, Dr. Cassileth performed a breast reconstruction revision, including breast implant removal and replacement with fat grafting. Read More
After experiencing complications from mastectomy with tissue expanders, this patient 45-year-old came to Dr. Killeen for breast reconstruction revision. Dr. Killeen removed the expanders and placed silicone implants above the muscle using acellular dermal matrix for additional support. Read More
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Breast Reconstruction Revision FAQ
What are the most common reasons women seek breast reconstruction revision surgery?
Breast reconstruction revision surgery is commonly sought to address complications like capsular contracture, implant malposition, asymmetry, and implant rupture or rippling. Women also seek revisions to improve aesthetic results, address natural tissue changes from aging/weight loss, or manage pain.
Can breast reconstruction revision correct asymmetry between the two breasts?
Yes, breast reconstruction revision is specifically designed to correct asymmetry between the two breasts, enhancing balance and overall appearance. Secondary procedures like breast reconstruction revision are common for achieving symmetry in both implant-based and autologous reconstruction (fat transfer).
What is capsular contracture, and how is it treated during revision surgery?
Capsular contracture is a complication of breast augmentation or reconstruction where scar tissue around the implant thickens and tightens, causing breast hardening, pain, and distortion. Treatment often involves revision surgery to remove or release the hardened capsule, replace the implant, and sometimes move the pocket.
How do I know if my breast implant has failed or needs to be replaced?
Breast implants often require replacement if you notice significant changes in breast shape, size, or firmness, particularly if accompanied by pain. Key indicators of failure include palpable lumps, deflation (saline), or subtle hardening (silicone) caused by capsular contracture. While not designed to last a lifetime, implants are typically replaced every 10–20 years.
Can radiation damage to reconstructed breasts be corrected with revision surgery?
Yes, radiation damage to reconstructed breasts, like fibrosis, skin tightening, asymmetry, or implant capsular contracture, can often be corrected with revision surgery. The implants can be replaced, and fat can be transferred to the breasts for a softer and more natural appearance.
What is scar revision, and can it be done as part of breast reconstruction revision?
Scar revision is a plastic surgery procedure designed to minimize, reposition, or improve the appearance of scars, making them flatter, thinner, or better blended with surrounding skin. It is often done as part of breast reconstruction revision to correct asymmetry, tightness, or visible scarring from a mastectomy or past reconstruction.
Is it possible to switch from implant-based reconstruction to a more natural result using fat transfer?
Yes, switching from implant-based reconstruction to a more natural result using fat transfer is possible. Often done during implant removal, this procedure uses your own fat to add volume, shape, and softness to the breasts, offering a natural feel.
How many revision surgeries might be needed to achieve the desired outcome?
Breast reconstruction typically requires one to two additional revision surgeries to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome, symmetry, and nipple reconstruction. While 2–3 total procedures are common over a year, about 40%–70% of patients undergo at least one elective revision to refine shape or improve symmetry.
Can breast reconstruction revision restore nipple symmetry or appearance?
Yes. Breast reconstruction revision can effectively restore nipple symmetry and improve appearance. Techniques include repositioning, reconstructing a new nipple, or using tattooing to correct shape, position, or volume issues that occurred after the initial surgery. Our team will walk you through all your options to help you determine the right options for you.
What questions should I ask during a breast reconstruction revision consultation?
During a breast reconstruction revision, you’ll want to discuss the specific cause of your dissatisfaction, your surgeon’s experience with revision techniques, and what to expect with realistic, personalized outcomes. You can also ask about the recovery process, anesthesia options, and any concerns you have.
How long do I need to wait after my initial breast reconstruction surgery to have revision surgery?
Patients typically need to wait at least 6 months to give the tissues time to heal and stabilize before having revision surgery. This timing can vary with the reason for surgery; for example, a complication may need to be addressed sooner.
Will insurance cover breast reconstruction revision?
Medical insurance coverage varies with providers, policies, and the specifics of the revision surgery. If the surgery is medically necessary, it is more likely to be covered than for a cosmetic reason. Our office staff is happy to help you navigate payment for your surgery and help you attain any necessary documentation, if possible.
What is the recovery time for breast reconstruction revision?
Recovery depends on the type of revision surgery performed and individual patient factors. As with the initial surgery, patients must limit strenuous exercise for about 4 to 6 weeks. You will receive specific recovery instructions during your consultation.
What is breast reconstruction revision with fat transfer?
Fat transfer involves removing fat from one area of the body with liposuction, purifying it, and injecting it into another area of the same patient's body. Surgeons can use fat transfer to fill in contour defects, replace implants, or enhance areas of the breast to improve the results of a previous breast reconstruction procedure.
What is implant-based breast reconstruction?
Implant-based breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure in which a breast implant, either saline or silicone, is used to rebuild the shape of the breast following a mastectomy. It is one of the most common approaches in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and may be performed in a single stage or involve a temporary tissue expander placed first to gradually stretch the skin before the final implant is inserted. The goal is to restore the appearance of the breast and help patients feel whole and confident after cancer treatment.
What is flap reconstruction?
Flap reconstruction is a form of autologous reconstruction in which a surgeon uses the patient's own tissue, typically taken from the abdomen, back, thighs, or buttocks, to rebuild the breast mound after a mastectomy. This approach uses the patient's own skin, fat, and sometimes muscle to create natural-looking breast tissue, offering results that move and feel more like a natural breast compared to implant-based options. It is often a good fit for patients who prefer to avoid implants or who may not be ideal candidates for them.
The breast surgeons at Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills are innovative physicians who provide compassionate, personalized patient care. Our world-class facility serves patients from throughout Los Angeles, Southern California, and nationwide. To learn more about our center and whether breast reconstruction revision may be a good option for you, call us at
(310) 278-8590 or contact us using the online form to schedule an appointment.
Curious if your procedure is covered by insurance? Bedford Breast Center has partnered with a specialized billing service to help you maximize your insurance benefits. Click here to take a short quiz and find out if you qualify.
