Breast Revision Surgery Day
Are you wondering what happens before, during and after breast revision surgery? This deep dives goes into all the details you need to know when it comes to the procedure.
Many women in San Antonio choose to have their breast implants removed or revised for personal, medical, or cosmetic reasons. While the motivation varies, one thing remains the same, which is the importance of feeling prepared for surgery day.
Understanding what happens before, during, and after the surgery can help ease anxiety and give you confidence going in. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full day-of experience, from check-in to recovery, and explain how different surgical techniques may shape your procedure.
Types of Breast Implant Removal Procedures
Not every breast implant removal surgery is the same. The specific techniques used depend on your goals, your anatomy, and the condition of your implants and surrounding tissue.
Simple Breast Implant Removal
This is a relatively straightforward procedure where the implants are removed, but the scar tissue (capsule) is left in place. It’s often suitable for patients with soft, non-problematic capsules and no signs of rupture or implant illness.
Capsulectomy
A capsulectomy involves removing the scar tissue capsule that forms around the implant. A partial capsulectomy removes only a portion of the capsule, while a total capsulectomy removes it entirely. In some very unique cases, an en bloc capsulectomy is performed. This means the implant and capsule are removed together in one piece.
Implant Exchange
Some patients prefer to replace their current implants with new ones. This may involve updating the implant material, adjusting the size, or switching to a different shape. It’s often done in combination with a capsulectomy or lift.
Removal with Breast Lift
If the breast tissue has stretched due to long-term implant use, a lift (mastopexy) may be added to improve shape, position, and firmness. This helps reshape and elevate the breasts after the implants are removed.
Step 1: Arrival at the Surgery Center
When you arrive at the surgical facility, our team will be ready to welcome you, review your information, and begin preparing you for surgery with care and attention.
Here’s what to expect upon arrival:
This early phase sets the tone for the day and ensures everything is in place for a safe procedure.
Step 2: Preoperative Preparation
After check-in, you’ll meet with our surgical team to review the plan, ask any final questions, and begin pre-op protocols. During this time, you can expect:
Final Review
We’ll confirm your surgical plan, review key details with you, and answer any last-minute questions you may have to make sure you feel fully informed, comfortable, and confident.
Pre-Surgical Markings
Our surgeon will carefully mark your chest to guide incision placement, help achieve symmetry, and ensure the surgical plan is followed precisely during the procedure.
Vitals and IV Line
Your vital signs will be checked to ensure you’re stable, and an intravenous (IV) line will be started to administer fluids, anesthesia, and any necessary medications throughout the procedure.
Step 3: In the Operating Room
Once pre-op is complete, you’ll be brought into the operating room, where everything is sterile, carefully arranged, and fully prepared for your surgery. The surgical team will be ready and focused on ensuring a safe, smooth experience from start to finish.
In the operating room, you can expect:
Our team will remain focused on your safety, comfort, and well-being from the moment you enter the operating room until your procedure is complete.
Step 4: The Procedure Itself
After anesthesia is administered and everything is set, our surgeon will begin the procedure. Here’s what typically happens during each stage of breast revision surgery:
Incision Placement
We usually reopen the original incision from your previous augmentation, which is often in the breast crease or around the areola. This helps minimize additional scarring.
Implant Removal
The implants are carefully removed from the breast pocket. If a simple removal is planned, the capsule is left in place.
Capsulectomy
If scar tissue needs to be removed, we may perform a partial or total capsulectomy. In rare en bloc cases, the implant and capsule are removed together as a single unit.
Pocket Reshaping
If implants are being replaced or removed permanently, the breast pocket may be reshaped, tightened, or sutured to prevent empty space.
Implant Exchange
If new implants are being placed, they are inserted into the refined pocket and carefully positioned for symmetry and balance.
Breast Lift
If your procedure includes a lift, the skin is tightened and the natural breast tissue is repositioned to create a natural looking contour.
Step 5: Waking Up in Recovery
After surgery, you’ll be taken to the recovery area, where our team monitors you as the anesthesia wears off. This is a calm, controlled environment focused on your safety and comfort.
Most patients feel drowsy, slightly disoriented, or tightness in the chest. These symptoms are normal and temporary. Our goal is to keep you as comfortable as possible while making aure your body responds well post-procedure.
You’ll remain in recovery until you meet all safety criteria for discharge. Our team will talk with your caregiver to prepare you both for the next steps at home.
Step 6: Discharge and Heading Home
Once you’re stable and cleared by our medical team, we’ll begin the discharge process. This step includes reviewing your aftercare plan and confirming that your caregiver is ready to assist you during the first 24 hours of recovery.
Going home the same day is standard for this type of surgery. We want to make sure you leave with confidence, knowing exactly how to care for yourself in the hours and days ahead.
Instructions
You’ll receive a recovery guide that includes directions on incision care, bathing, movement restrictions, and when to contact us if something seems off.
Medications
We’ll review your prescribed medications, including how often to take them and what side effects to watch for. You should have these filled in advance when possible.
Garments
You’ll be advised on how long to wear your surgical bra or wrap, how to take it off, and when it’s safe to switch to a lighter support option.
Transport
You must have someone available to drive you home and stay with you overnight. This is not optional, as you’ll still be recovering from anesthesia and won’t be able to care for yourself right away.
Take the Next Step
Breast implant removal is a highly personal decision, and every surgical plan is tailored to your goals and anatomy. Whether you’re having a simple removal, a capsulectomy, or combining the procedure with a lift or implant exchange, understanding what to expect on surgery day can make a big difference in how you feel going into it.
Our team in San Antonio is here to guide you through each step with care. From the moment you arrive at the surgery center to the time you return home to rest, we focus on safety, precision, and your overall peace of mind.
If you’re considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a breast revision consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer every question, and create a plan that aligns with your needs and comfort.
Why Choose San Antonio Breast Implant Removal?
At San Antonio Breast Implant Removal, we provide expert, personalized care from your first consultation through recovery. Whether you’re local to San Antonio or traveling in, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
We focus on breast implant removal procedures, including techniques like en bloc capsulectomy, total capsulectomy, and customized combination surgeries. Our goal is to help you achieve a result that feels right for your body and your health.
Do you have questions or are you ready to book your in-person or virtual consultation? Contact San Antonio Breast Implant Removal. We’re here to help!
San Antonio Breast Implant Removal
4083 De Zavala Rd
San Antonio, TX 78249
(210) 361-8825
