Abacoa & Alton Neighbors October November 2020

8 Abacoa &Alton N E I G H B O R S | N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 0 There are many reasons women with existing breast implants may want additional breast surgery (revision). Consulting a surgeon with years of experience in implant-based breast reconstruction, breast augmentation, mastopexy (breast lift), and correction of congenital breast deformities is essential when approaching any type of revision. If you are considering revision of prior breast surgery, be sure to seek out consultation with an experienced board- certified plastic surgeon who can offer you all of the options available to achieve a successful result. Over the years, performing revision of prior breast surgery has become one of more popular and rewarding aspects of my practice. To develop a plan for any revision, I listen carefully to each patient’s story and concerns to make sure they are understood and heard. When it comes to revisions, no two cases are the same. Many patients have had trying prior experiences, and therefore open communication and trust are critical. As women age, unavoidable changes occur in their bodies and breasts. Aging and the passage of time can be frustrating as they cause even the most successful surgical result to change, and slowly become less like the outcome you were pleased with when the surgery was first done. Pregnancy, weight fluctuation, and loss of skin tone can eventually result in the desire to revisit your prior breast augmentation or breast lift. You may no longer like the appearance of your breast implants, or even wish to have an implant in place. Perhaps you are now unhappy with your shape, size, or position of your breasts. Some patients wish to change the type of implant or correct an implant problem such as capsular contracture, rippling, or rupture. Others may have been told they have a double bubble, bottoming out, or malposition. Patients may wish to undergo explantation (implant removal) if they have concerns regarding their implants. Others may consider revision if the initial procedure was unsuccessful or impacted by difficulty healing, and complications have affected the way the implants look or feel. Revision of prior breast surgery usually involves procedures that include implant removal or replacement of implants. The procedures may be combined with a breast lift to address and correct any sagging that has occurred. A new pocket (neopocket) may be created for the implant. In some instances, reinforcement with mesh may be used to minimize the risk of further sagging. Patients who have health concerns regarding implants may wish to consider removal of the implant and all surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy). The surgery is usually more challenging and complex than the initial procedures. I believe it is important to take the time to review prior operative details and notes in order to best deal with pre-existing issues, scarring, or asymmetry. This helps to best develop a strategy that optimizes the chances for success. It is essential that you feel your surgeon understands your goals and is working together with you to achieve them. This is a hallmark of Lickstein Plastic Surgery. We welcome you for a consultation. 561-571-4000. To learn more visit: www.licksteinplasticsurgery.com. EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR Understanding Breast Revision Surgery By David A. Lickstein, MD, FACS, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 601 Heritage Drive, Suite 455 Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 530-2880 Timothy T. Patykula, Esq. www.lighthouselawfirmpa.com The Coronavirus has shown that life can turn in an instant. Do you have a will or trust to protect your family from the unexpected? Speak with an attorney today to create an estate plan that will bring you peace of mind.