Body Revisions

Revision surgery may be required anywhere on the body. This follow-up procedure may be needed if the results of the initial surgery did not meet your expectations or if there were some undesired outcomes.

Needing revision surgery does not necessarily mean that you have had a complication or that your initial surgeon made a mistake or produced bad results. In many cases, revisions are done to further refine an already acceptable result or renew a result that has changed over time.

Revision rates vary widely among procedures and areas of the face and body; they can even differ among surgeons based on their individual techniques and experience. Regardless of how skilled your surgeon is, there is always a risk of complications or outcomes not meeting the expected results. However, surgeons who not only possess exceptional surgical skills but also listen well and communicate effectively typically have lower complication rates and a higher chance of success.

If you are considering revision surgery, it is advisable to get a copy of your medical records, including any operative reports describing the procedure. Following that, it would also be beneficial to get a second opinion from another surgeon, in addition to the one who performed the initial surgery. That second (or even third) surgeon will have a fresh approach to your results and may provide a different perspective or present alternative solutions.

One of the most common reasons that individuals seek revision surgery is scarring at the incision site or sites. Scars are composed of fibrous tissue produced by the body during the healing process. Most incisions, when made by an expert physician, heal well, resulting in a thin, flat line. However, incisions on the body often have a less optimal healing process than those on the face, due to a reduced blood supply. This increases the likelihood of more visible scarring.

After surgery, scars typically require months to reach their final form. If, after this period, the appearance of scars is too prominent or otherwise distressing, non-surgical treatments such as laser therapy or steroid injections can help to refine the results. In some cases, especially when scars still appear wide or thickened, managing them through a scar revision surgery is a more effective option.

Other common reasons for seeking revision surgery include complications of breast or buttocks implants (such as infections or excessive scar tissue), asymmetry, and “contour irregularities” after liposuction.

Asymmetry is common in any plastic surgical procedure that involves addressing two sides, as with the eyelids, face, ears or breasts. Revision surgery is usually effective and minor in nature. Contour irregularities are areas of uneven peaks and valleys that can be seen or felt under the skin. These can usually be fixed with a combination of liposuction and fat grafting to even out and smooth the area.

Some individuals may also seek revision surgery after undergoing a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Following the procedure, there can sometimes be excess skin and fat left out at the edges of the bikini incision that is made over the hips. This excess is usually called a “dog ear” and can be surgically removed through the same incision or by extending the incision. If the belly was not tightened enough or if there are other issues like the formation of a new hernia or recurrence of an old one, a revision surgery can usually resolve the problem.

The best revision surgery for you will depend on your initial surgery, current issues, and ultimate aesthetic goals. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to develop a personalized treatment plan. Be sure to ask about all attendant benefits and risks of each procedure. And consider getting a second opinion as well. Working with expert surgeons will give you the best chance of having excellent outcomes with the most limited risks.

Before you go

When considering revision body cosmetic surgery, an initial consultation is crucial. Ask the surgeon about their experience with similar revisions, expected outcomes, risks, and recovery time. Inquire about the techniques they plan to use and view before-and-after photos of previous patients.

During the consultation, the doctor will review your medical history, examine the area needing revision, and discuss your goals and concerns. They will explain the surgical plan, anesthesia options, and preoperative instructions. Preoperative visits will include detailed planning, lab tests, and imaging if needed, ensuring you are fully prepared and informed before the procedure.

During the procedure

On the day of revision body cosmetic surgery, arrive early to complete any final paperwork. You’ll meet with the anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options and address any concerns. As with your initial surgery, revision surgery is very often performed under general anesthesia to give the surgeon maximum flexibility and ensure you have no pain or discomfort.

The surgeon will review the surgical plan and mark the areas for revision. Preoperative preparations include changing into a surgical gown and ensuring all vital signs are stable. The anesthesiologist monitors you during the surgery while the surgeon performs the revision. Incisions vary depending on the type of revision surgery and should be discussed during your pre-operative visit.

Post-surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where nurses monitor your vital signs and manage pain. The surgeon will provide initial postoperative care instructions before you are discharged to go home.

Body Revisions Aftercare 

Postoperative swelling, bruising, and the healing process can significantly differ from your initial surgery due to the complexity of revising previous work; it is not uncommon to notice significant bruising and swelling. These variations are normal and do not necessarily indicate a problem with the surgery or the surgeon’s skill. Pain is usually managed with over-the-counter and prescription pain medication if needed. You may or may not have any drains depending on the revision surgery you are getting.

You will be given detailed written instructions on what to do after surgery, a contact information number available 24/7, and prescriptions for any needed medications or antibiotics.

Your surgeon and the revision surgery performed will determine whether you should stay at the hospital, go to an after-care facility, or go home that same day. Revision surgery can typically improve aesthetic and functional results, but getting surgery again does not necessarily guarantee a “perfect” outcome.