One of the most important and common questions women have when considering breast augmentation is what size implants they should get. Generally, surgeons are able to effectively help patients determine the right implant sizing, but sometimes women do end up with breasts that are too large or too small for their preferences. What can be done if, after your enhancement surgery, you are unsatisfied with the results? Your doctor might recommend breast implant revision surgery in order to correct the breast size.

Before going back under the knife, there are several things to consider several things about breast augmentation size. If you think you want bigger implant sizes, consider that the larger you go the larger your risk of complications is. You may find that bigger implants look or feel too unnatural or that they are too heavy, causing everything from minor annoyance to serious lower back problems. Going for too big can also lead to further surgeries to return your breasts to a more manageable size.

However, going with a size that is too small and not proportionate with your figure often leads to dissatisfaction as well. Make sure you discuss your expectations and preferences with your surgeon in detail to determine what size implants will best suit you.

A breast implant revision surgery is very similar to the original enhancement procedure. It can take place in a hospital or outpatient clinic and you will be put under general anesthesia for the surgery. The length of the procedure is typically between one and three hours, usually on the shorter end, because a revision does not involve all the same things as an initial implant surgery. An incision will be made around the areola, under the armpit, through the navel or below the breast crease depending on the situation. Your implants will then be exchanged for larger or smaller ones, or the existing ones may be modified to accommodate your size preference. The incision will then be sutured closed.

Recovery from a revision surgery will likely include two to three days of bed rest. Your stitches will be removed after about a week and you will be able to return to work and other normal activities after one or two weeks as well. In the meantime, you may experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Your doctor may prescribe you some medications to effectively reduce the associated pain. It is important to avoid raising your arm above shoulder level during the first couple of days to post-surgery, to allow ample healing time for your sensitive muscles and tissues. Any hardness of the breast should subside after a week or two and the scars from the incision will be permanent but should fade significantly over time.

Breast implant revision surgery involves the same risks as the first breast augmentation. There are issues such as infection, excessive bleeding, capsular contracture, and loss of nipple sensitivity. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything unexpected with your recovery.

While it is obviously ideal to choose the right breast implant size the first time around, a revision surgery can correct any sizing issues you may discover.