Breast revision is surgery performed after a previous breast procedure – most often augmentation, lift, reduction, or reconstruction – to improve appearance, comfort, or implant-related problems. It is not a repeat of the first operation. Scar tissue, implant position, skin quality, and your current goals all shape a new plan.
The procedure may involve exchanging or removing implants, releasing or removing a tight capsule, adjusting the implant pocket, lifting the breast, fat grafting, or scar revision.
Wait at least six to twelve months after your initial surgery so swelling can settle and scars can mature – unless a problem such as rupture, severe contracture, significant pain, or infection needs earlier care.
Consider a visit if implants feel hard or painful, one breast has changed suddenly, you want a different size, or life changes have altered your result. A consultation clarifies whether now is the right moment.
Consultations last about 45 minutes and can be in person at our Mesa office or virtual. You meet Dr. Jude LaBarbera directly.
Your pre-op visit is usually scheduled about two weeks before surgery and takes 30–45 minutes. Here are the typical pre-operative instructions:
Dr. LaBarbera often utilizes existing scars when possible to minimize new marks. Common incision locations include:
A tight capsule may be released or removed. A stretched pocket may be tightened with sutures. A new implant may sit in a revised plane. When implants are removed, the remaining tissue is shaped so the breast does not look deflated if that is your goal.
Dr. LaBarbera has special training in breast revision and microsurgery and is known for meticulous work. He does not use a single signature shortcut; the method is carefully adjusted so the implant – or the breast without an implant – sits stably and looks proportionate to your frame.
You will have a surgical bra or compression garment for support; post-op bras are available at the office if you need a better fit. Dr. LaBarbera checks in on patients after surgery until healing is complete, including virtual follow-ups for distant patients.
Keep incisions dry and follow all wound care instructions
Silicone gel sheeting and Biocorneum are commonly recommended for scars
Scar cream often starts around four weeks, if the incision is ready
Send photos or questions to the office; messages are answered by the next business day
The cost of breast revision in Mesa typically ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on whether you need exchange, removal, capsule work, a lift, or a combination. This is an estimate; pricing varies based on individual anatomy and the personalized treatment plan.
If revision is medically necessary – such as severe capsular contracture causing pain – some portion may be covered, but you would need to explore that with your insurer separately; the surgical quotes are out-of-pocket. Our office manager reviews numbers with you so there are no surprises before you schedule.
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case and the techniques employed, but it typically ranges from one to several hours.
Surgery is often booked within about four to six weeks after consultation, depending on medical clearance, labs, and the calendar. Holiday periods fill faster.
Dr. LaBarbera strives to utilize existing incisions whenever possible to minimize new scarring. Some revision procedures may require new or extended incisions. Scar care instructions will be provided to help optimize healing.
Most patients can return to light daily activities within a week. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that put pressure on the chest should be avoided for approximately four to six weeks, or as advised by Dr. LaBarbera.
Capsular contracture is the hardening of the scar tissue capsule that naturally forms around a breast implant. Breast revision can address it through a capsulectomy, which involves removing the hardened capsule and often replacing the implant.
A mammogram is commonly required before breast surgery. If you decline, you must sign a consent form in the office. Results can be emailed to [email protected].
Sometimes. Dr. LaBarbera decides during consultation whether a combination is safe and whether it would add too much time. When appropriate, combining can lower duplicate facility and anesthesia costs.
Out-of-town patients typically arrange a hotel or Airbnb nearby and stay in the area for about four to seven days after surgery. Virtual follow-ups are an option after the early in-person checks if you send updated photos.
