Breast Revision
Improving or correcting previous breast surgery with careful, individualized planning
Breast revision surgery may be considered when a previous breast procedure has not healed, settled, or aged the way you expected. Over time, changes in tissue, implants, weight, or pregnancy can affect shape and symmetry. In other situations, discomfort, implant-related concerns, or dissatisfaction with appearance may prompt you to revisit your options.
Choosing revision surgery can feel different from choosing your first procedure. There is often history involved, and sometimes frustration or uncertainty. Taking time to review what has changed and what can be safely improved is an important first step.
Breast revision may also be appropriate when breast shape developed differently from the beginning. Significant asymmetry, tuberous breast shape, enlarged areolas, or inverted nipples can affect both appearance and confidence. In these situations, corrective surgery may be the first procedure rather than a revision of cosmetic work.
When revision is related to a previous augmentation, reduction, lift, or reconstruction, careful evaluation becomes especially important. Scar tissue, implant history, and current tissue quality all influence what can realistically be improved. The surgical plan is guided by your present anatomy and what can be realistically and safely improved.
Who May Consider Breast Revision
Breast revision may be appropriate when a previous procedure has left noticeable asymmetry, implant shifting, firmness from capsular contracture, implant rupture, or uneven contour. It may also be considered when natural body changes over time have altered the shape or balance of earlier results.
Because revision surgery builds on work that has already been done, careful evaluation is especially important. Good overall health matters, but so does having a clear understanding of what can safely and realistically be improved. Revision procedures can involve more complexity than an initial surgery, and thoughtful planning helps set expectations that feel grounded and achievable.
Evaluation and Surgical Planning
Planning begins with a comprehensive assessment of tissue quality, existing scars, implant type and placement, and the condition of the surrounding capsule. Breast symmetry, chest wall anatomy, and inframammary fold position are also carefully evaluated.
Understanding the details of prior surgery is essential. In some cases, imaging may be recommended to assess implant integrity or internal scarring.
Based on these findings, a customized surgical plan is developed.
Surgical Approaches
Revision surgery varies widely depending on the concern being addressed.
Implants may be removed and replaced with a different size or type. Capsular contracture may require capsulotomy or partial or total capsulectomy. In cases of implant malposition, the pocket may be repaired or reconstructed to restore proper positioning and support.
If the inframammary fold has shifted, it can be reinforced or repositioned. When sagging is present, a lift may be performed during the same operation to improve contour and balance.
Fat grafting may also be used to soften visible implant edges, improve contour transitions, or enhance natural fullness.
Incisions are typically placed along existing scars or within the inframammary fold to avoid unnecessary new scarring whenever possible.
Surgery is performed under general anesthesia in our private, on-site surgical facility for cosmetic revisions.
Recovery and results
Recovery depends on the extent of correction performed. Light daily activities are often resumed within about a week, though healing varies based on tissue condition and surgical complexity.
As swelling resolves, improvements in contour, symmetry, and comfort become more noticeable. Because revision surgery builds upon prior operations, careful follow-up is essential during healing.
Safety and Follow-Up
Revision procedures require thoughtful surgical judgment due to scar tissue and altered anatomy. Risks and limitations are reviewed clearly during consultation.
Follow-up visits allow close monitoring of healing, implant position when applicable, and overall breast shape as tissues settle.
Insurance Information
Insurance coverage for breast revision depends on the reason for surgery.
Revisions related to prior breast cancer reconstruction may be covered when medically indicated. In these cases, Dr. Goote participates with select insurance plans, and procedures are performed in approved outpatient or hospital facilities. Whenever required, our office submits documentation for prior authorization.
Revision surgery performed for cosmetic reasons, such as size change or aesthetic dissatisfaction, is generally not covered by insurance and is considered self-pay.
Beginning January 1, 2026, Dr. Hammond will no longer participate with insurance plans for surgical services and will offer self-pay procedures exclusively.
Because insurance policies vary widely between carriers, reviewing your individual coverage prior to consultation is strongly encouraged. Our team assists with determining eligibility and submitting authorization requests when applicable, though final coverage decisions are made by the insurance company.
Why choose PIPS
Partners in Plastic Surgery of West Michigan
Breast revision surgery demands experience and careful decision-making. Dr. Dennis Hammond brings decades of experience in breast surgery, including complex revision cases involving structural repair and capsule management. His approach emphasizes restoring stable support and balanced contour.
Dr. Paige Goote evaluates revision cases with close attention to tissue health, prior surgical changes, and patient concerns. Her planning focuses on achievable improvements while maintaining safe surgical principles.
Together, their work reflects practical surgical judgment, clear communication, and attentive care throughout each phase of treatment and recovery.
Where Surgery Is Performed
Cosmetic breast revision procedures are typically performed in our private, on-site surgical facility located on the lower level of the PIPS office building in Grand Rapids, West Michigan.
When revision surgery is related to breast cancer reconstruction and qualifies for insurance coverage, procedures are performed by Dr. Paige Goote at approved outpatient surgery centers or hospital settings as required.

















