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Breast Revision & Replacement Gold Coast
Choose Dr Terrence Scamp for your breast revision surgery at our Bundall practice on the Gold Coast.
Breast Implant Revision Gold Coast
Breast Revision & Replacement Surgery
Breast revision surgery, also referred to as breast implant replacement, is a procedure performed to revise or correct the outcome of a previous breast augmentation. Patients seek breast revision Gold Coast surgery for a range of reasons, including the natural lifespan of their existing implants, complications, changes in the breast over time, or a wish to update the size, shape, or type of implant originally chosen.
Breast revision is a broad category that can involve removing existing breast implants, replacing them with new implants, or removing them altogether without replacement. In some cases, the procedure is combined with a breast lift to address changes in breast tissue and skin elasticity that have occurred since the original surgery.
This procedure is suitable for patients who have previously undergone breast augmentation and are now experiencing concerns with their implants, who are reaching the typical replacement timeframe, or who wish to make changes to their cosmetic outcome. Speak to Dr Terrence Scamp on the Gold Coast to learn more about breast revision surgery and whether it is appropriate for the patient’s circumstances.
Lifespan of Breast Implants
Breast implants are not designed to be permanent, lifetime devices. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the Australian regulator responsible for medical devices, breast implants are typically replaced or removed approximately every 10 to 15 years. This is the official position taken by the TGA and is reflected in current Australian clinical guidance.
This does not mean every patient will require revision exactly at the 10-year mark. Some implants remain in place for longer without complication, and others may require attention earlier. The 10 to 15 year timeframe is a general guide based on the typical lifespan of modern implants, the likelihood of complications increasing over time, and the body’s natural response to the implant.
For this reason, the TGA recommends that patients with breast implants attend regular monitoring appointments with their surgeon. These check-ins help identify any changes early and allow for revision or replacement to be planned proactively rather than reactively.
Patients approaching the 10 to 15 year mark since their original breast augmentation, or those who have noticed any changes in their breasts, may wish to consider a consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon as the appropriate next step.
Reasons Patients Consider Breast Revision Surgery
There are several reasons a patient may consider breast revision and replacement surgery. Some are clinical in nature, where revision is recommended to address a complication, while others relate to the natural lifespan of the implants or changes in personal preference over time.
Reaching the typical implant replacement timeframe: As outlined above, breast implants are not designed to last indefinitely. Many patients undergo revision surgery as part of planned, routine implant replacement at the 10 to 15 year mark, even in the absence of any specific complication.
Capsular contracture: The body forms a natural capsule of scar tissue around any breast implant. In some patients, this capsule tightens and hardens around the implant, a condition known as capsular contracture. This can cause discomfort, distortion of breast shape, or firmness, and is a common reason for revision surgery.
Implant rupture or deflation: Over time, an implant shell can develop a tear or leak, which may require removal and replacement. Modern silicone implants are designed to minimise the spread of silicone in the event of rupture, but the implant should still be replaced when this occurs.
Implant malposition: In some cases, an implant may shift from its original position, sitting too high, too low, or to the side. Revision surgery can reposition the implant or revise the implant pocket to correct this.
Changes in breast size or shape over time: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, and the natural ageing process can all alter the appearance of breasts after augmentation. Some patients seek revision surgery to address these changes, often in combination with a breast lift.
Wishing to change implant size, shape, or type: Personal preferences may change over the years. A patient who originally chose a particular size or implant type may later wish to go larger, smaller, or to a different shape entirely. Revision surgery allows for these changes to be made.
Removal without replacement: Some patients reach a point where they no longer wish to have implants and seek removal without replacement. This is sometimes referred to as breast explant surgery and may be performed alone or alongside a breast lift to reshape the remaining breast tissue.
Breast Revision Consultation Process
Before any breast revision surgery, a patient consultation will be completed to discuss the procedure in detail. This will involve an assessment by Dr Terrence Scamp to understand the reasons for revision, examine the existing implants and breast tissue, and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. As a qualified health practitioner, Dr Terrence Scamp will explain the procedure, the recovery, and the associated risks in detail before proceeding.
Because every revision case is different, the consultation is a key opportunity to discuss medical history, the details of the previous surgery (where known), and the patient’s goals for the revision procedure. Patients are encouraged to bring any documentation about their existing implants, including the type, size, and date of placement, as this information helps inform the surgical plan.
For patients considering replacement implants, Dr Terrence Scamp exclusively uses Motiva implants and will discuss the shape, size, and profile options that may suit the individual case during the consultation.
Breast Revision Surgery Cost on the Gold Coast
The cost of breast revision and replacement surgery varies considerably between patients. Each revision case is unique, and the surgical approach depends on the nature of the previous surgery, the condition of the existing implants, and the goals for the procedure.
During the consultation, Dr Scamp will assess each individual case and discuss the technique recommended for the patient’s circumstances. The cost estimate will take into account the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, hospital and theatre charges, the type of replacement implant, if applicable, and any additional procedures such as a breast lift if indicated.
In some circumstances, where revision surgery is medically necessary, such as in cases of capsular contracture or implant rupture, there may be applicable Medicare item numbers and private health insurance cover for the hospital component of the procedure. This will be reviewed during the consultation, and patients are encouraged to speak with their private health fund directly to understand what their level of cover includes.
Only after a horough consultation can an accurate, personalised cost estimate be provided.
The Breast Revision Procedure
Breast revision surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. The procedure typically involves accessing the existing implant through the original incision where possible, removing the implant, and then carrying out the necessary additional steps based on the individual surgical plan.
These additional steps may include:
- Capsulectomy or capsulotomy, which involves removing or releasing the scar tissue capsule around the implant where capsular contracture is present.
- Pocket revision, where the implant pocket is adjusted to reposition a new implant or correct malposition.
- Implant replacement, where a new implant is inserted into the revised pocket.
- Breast lift (mastopexy), where excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is reshaped to address sagging or changes in breast position.
The specific combination of techniques depends entirely on the patient’s anatomy and the goals of the revision. Dr Scamp will discuss this thoroughly during the consultation so patients understand exactly what is involved in the individual procedure.
About Breast Revision and Replacement Surgery
Recovery from breast revision surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure performed. A straightforward implant replacement may have a similar recovery profile to the original augmentation, while a revision involving capsulectomy, pocket revision, or a combined breast lift will typically require a longer recovery period.
Following surgery, patients are generally advised to rest, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity, wear a surgical support garment, and attend follow-up appointments as scheduled. Detailed post-operative care instructions will be provided to support healing.
As with all surgery, breast revision carries risks, including but not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and the recurrence of capsular contracture. These are explained in full at the consultation so patients can make an informed decision before proceeding.
For more information about the risks and complications associated with breast surgery, please visit the surgery risks and complications page.
Book a Breast Revision Consultation on the Gold Coast
Dr Terrence Scamp is a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon based at 95 Upton Street, Bundall, QLD 4217, with over 30 years of experience in plastic surgery. The practice sees patients from across the Gold Coast and South East Queensland, including those travelling from Brisbane, for whom Bundall is approximately one hour south.
To enquire about a breast revision consultation, contact the rooms on (07) 5539 1000 or visit the booking information page.
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Dr Terrence Scamp – Over 30 years of experience
M.B.B.S | F.R.A.C.S
Board-certified specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Terrence Scamp, has 30 years of experience in cosmetic plastic surgery. With a broad range of medical training, he endeavours to provide a high standard of surgical care.
National & International Surgical Training
- Scotland
- Bristol
- Harley Street London
- Belgium
- Slovenia
- Germany
- United States
A qualified and accredited surgeon since 1992, Dr Scamp’s career started with the completion of his internship at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane and his graduation from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery. In 1982 his focus shifted towards what would be the beginning of his surgical training.
He gained valuable experience in a range of specialties such as vascular, orthopaedic, neurosurgery, and general surgery. In 1986 at the Royal Brisbane Hospital, Dr Terrence Scamp began his specialised training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Following this he returned to Princess Alexandra Hospital for further training in cosmetic plastic surgery in 1987.
Then in 1988 Dr Scamp embarked on an international journey to further his training. Over the three and a half years he spent training internationally he spent time in Scotland, Bristol, Harley Street London, Belgium, Slovenia, Germany, and the USA. In 1990 he became a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and a member of the Australasian society of aesthetic plastic surgeons in 1992 (ASAPS).
From consultation to surgery, Dr Scamp utilises the knowledge and skill acquired from his 3 decades of training and experience. He ensures that he prioritises his patients, delving into available options, guiding patients towards a decision that is in line with their desired outcome.
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Dr Terrence Scamp is a qualified and accredited specialist plastic surgeon, who has devoted over 3 decades to honing his skills and knowledge. Beyond refining his own expertise, he has actively contributed to the growth of fellow plastic surgeons through teaching, lecturing and mentoring. If you're considering a one-on-one consultation with Dr Scamp to discuss your desired procedure, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.
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