What is Secondary (Revision) Breast Reduction Surgery? For Whom is it Necessary?
Secondary (revision) breast reduction surgery is a corrective surgical procedure performed on patients who have previously undergone breast reduction surgery but whose aesthetic, functional, or health expectations were not met.
This surgery may be planned due to breasts still being too large, asymmetry, sagging, deformity, scarring issues, or dissatisfaction with the position of the nipple. Revision surgeries require more experience and detailed planning compared to the initial surgery.
In Which Cases is Revision Breast Reduction Required?
The need for secondary breast reduction most commonly arises for the following reasons:
- Insufficient reduction: Breasts still feeling heavy and large after the first surgery.
- Breast asymmetry: Differences in volume, shape, or nipple level between the right and left breasts.
- Persistent or increased sagging: Re-sagging of the breasts over time or due to the initial surgical technique.
- Nipple and areola problems: The nipple not being in the ideal position, or issues with shape and blood circulation.
- Aesthetically disturbing scars: Thick, widened, or irregular surgical scars.
Who is Suitable for Revision Breast Reduction Surgery?
Revision breast reduction surgery may be suitable for patients who:
- Have previously had breast reduction surgery,
- Have ongoing physical complaints (back, neck, shoulder pain),
- Are aesthetically dissatisfied,
- Have breast structure and skin quality suitable for surgery,
- Have a general health status conducive to surgery.
At this point, a detailed examination and the evaluation of previous surgery records are extremely important.
Why is Revision Breast Reduction Surgery More Difficult?
Secondary breast reduction surgeries are technically more sensitive than the first operation. The main reasons for this are:
- Tissue changes due to the previous surgery,
- The necessity to replan blood circulation,
- Preservation of the nipple and its surroundings,
- Reshaping of the scars.
For this reason, revision surgeries must be planned by an experienced plastic surgeon.
How is Revision Breast Reduction Surgery Planned?
Planning is personalized for each patient. During the evaluation process:
- Current breast volume and degree of sagging,
- Nipple position,
- Skin elasticity,
- Previous surgical scars,
- The patient's expectations
are considered together. The goal is to achieve both functional relief and a natural, balanced breast form.
What is the Recovery Process Like?
The recovery process after revision breast reduction surgery proceeds similarly to the first surgery:
- Edema and sensitivity may be seen in the first days,
- The use of a special medical bra is recommended,
- Return to daily life is usually possible within a few weeks,
- Final results become clear within a few months.
Following your surgeon's recommendations is critical for a healthy recovery process.
Should Expectations in Revision Breast Reduction Surgery Be Realistic?
Yes. One of the most important issues in revision surgeries is correct expectation management. Although the aim is to correct existing problems and provide aesthetic improvement, not every revision surgery offers unlimited change like the first surgery.
Therefore, detailed examination and open communication are very important.
Why is Expert Opinion Important?
Secondary (revision) breast reduction surgery requires advanced surgical experience. Such surgeries necessitate the evaluation of expertise and aesthetic perspective together.
Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoglu provides solutions to his patients with a personalized planning approach in the field of breast aesthetics, including revision breast surgeries.
Get More Information About Revision Breast Reduction Surgery
If you have had breast reduction surgery before and are not satisfied with the result, the most suitable revision option for you can be determined through a detailed evaluation.
Taking a safe and correct step would be to get an expert opinion for examination and personal evaluation.
