Revision Plastic Surgery
Over the many years – both in my reconstruction and aesthetic practice I have seen patients wanting to have their prior surgery improved, corrected, redone, etc. It’s become the most common thing I see and do. What follows are the more frequently asked questions regarding revision surgery. If you have had plastic surgery previously and it’s either time for a refresh or you never achieved your desired goals (or any variation of the need for a revision) – I invite you to come for a consultation. Come with any prior records you have because the more we know about what was done – the better prepared we can be to help you with what comes next.
What follows are just a few of the most common questions and answers about revision plastic surgery. It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon to ensure you have a complete understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes.
What is revision plastic surgery?
- Revision plastic surgery refers to a secondary or follow-up surgery performed to correct or improve the results of a previous plastic surgery procedure.
Why would I need revision plastic surgery?
- Revision surgery may be necessary if you are unhappy with the results of your original surgery, if you have experienced complications, or if your original surgery has aged and you want to improve or refresh the results.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for revision plastic surgery?
- You may be a good candidate for revision plastic surgery if you are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome, and are seeking improvement in the appearance of your previous surgery.
How is revision plastic surgery different from my original surgery?
- Revision plastic surgery may be more complex and challenging than your original surgery as the surgeon is working with existing tissue that has been previously altered. It may also require more extensive surgical techniques, longer recovery times, and a higher level of skill and experience from the surgeon.
How long does recovery from revision plastic surgery take?
- The recovery time for revision plastic surgery can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and your individual health. In general, revision surgery may require a longer recovery period than your original surgery. Based on what was done in the past and what we are considering now, I’ll give you specific instructions on what you can expect during your recovery.
What are the risks associated with revision plastic surgery?
- As with any surgery, there are risks associated with revision plastic surgery, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and dissatisfaction with the results. We will discuss the specific risks associated with your procedure in detail but understand that in general – the risks for revision surgery tend to go up – not down. That said – my entire focus is providing you with safe, secure choices for your plastic surgery needs. We will review any risks in detail.
How can I prepare for revision plastic surgery?
- You can prepare for revision plastic surgery by following your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet to promote healing. It’s also important to have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery.
How can I find a qualified revision plastic surgeon?
- You can find a qualified revision plastic surgeon by asking for recommendations from friends or family members, or by searching for board-certified plastic surgeons in your area. It’s also important to research the surgeon’s experience and training, and to schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure.
How much does revision plastic surgery cost?
- The cost of revision plastic surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, the location of the practice, and the experience of the surgeon. Your insurance may also cover some or all of the cost of revision surgery, depending on the reason for the procedure. It’s important to discuss the cost of the procedure with your surgeon and insurance provider before scheduling the surgery.
What should I expect during the consultation for revision plastic surgery?
- During the consultation for revision plastic surgery, you should expect to discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure with your surgeon. Your surgeon will also examine the previous surgical area and discuss any potential complications or risks associated with revision surgery. They will also give you an estimate of the cost of the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
What should I consider when deciding whether to have revision plastic surgery?
- When deciding whether to have revision plastic surgery, it’s important to consider several factors, including your motivation for the procedure, your overall health, the experience and qualifications of the surgeon, and your expectations for the outcome. You should also weigh the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and have a clear understanding of what the recovery process will entail.
Can revision plastic surgery help me achieve the results I want?
- Revision plastic surgery has the potential to help you achieve the results you want, but it’s important to have realistic expectations and to select a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will be able to give you a better idea of what you can expect from the procedure based on your specific case.
Can revision plastic surgery correct complications from my previous surgery?
- Revision plastic surgery can be used to correct complications from a previous surgery, but it’s important to keep in mind that the outcome may not always be perfect. The severity of the complications and the amount of time that has passed since the original surgery can both impact the success of revision surgery. Your surgeon will be able to give you a better understanding of what can be done to correct your specific complications and what the expected outcome may be.
Is revision plastic surgery safe?
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with revision plastic surgery. However, the procedure can be performed safely when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of revision surgery with your surgeon and to follow their pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize the risks and promote healing.
Can revision plastic surgery be performed under local anesthesia?
- In some cases, revision plastic surgery may be performed under local anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used for the procedure will depend on the extent of the surgery and the preferences of the patient and the surgeon. Your surgeon will discuss the options for anesthesia with you and recommend the best approach for your specific case.
How long is the recovery time after revision plastic surgery?
- The recovery time after revision plastic surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient. Some patients may experience swelling and bruising for a few days to a few weeks after the surgery. More extensive revisions may require a longer recovery period. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for the surgical area and what activities to avoid during the recovery period.
How soon can I return to work after revision plastic surgery?
- The length of time it takes to return to work after revision plastic surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure and the individual patient. In some cases, patients may be able to return to work within a few days to a week after the surgery, while more extensive revisions may require a longer recovery period. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on when you can return to work and what activities you should avoid during the recovery period.
Can revision plastic surgery be performed in combination with other procedures?
- In some cases, revision plastic surgery may be performed in combination with other procedures to achieve the desired results. For example, a patient who has had a breast augmentation may choose to have a breast lift performed at the same time as revision surgery to correct complications from the previous procedure. Your surgeon will be able to discuss the options for combining procedures and recommend the best approach for your specific case.
How long will the results of revision plastic surgery last?
- The results of revision plastic surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of procedure, the individual patient, and the patient’s lifestyle habits. In general, revision surgery can produce long-lasting results, but it’s important to have realistic expectations and to understand that additional revisions may be necessary in the future. Your surgeon will be able to give you a better idea of what you can expect from the procedure based on your specific case.
How do I choose the best plastic surgeon for revision plastic surgery?
- Choosing the best plastic surgeon for revision plastic surgery requires research and due diligence. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has experience performing revision procedures. You should also look for a surgeon who has a good track record of producing positive outcomes and has a strong reputation in the medical community. Schedule consultations with several plastic surgeons to compare their qualifications and approach to revision surgery and choose the one who you feel the most confident and comfortable with.