Should I choose the same plastic surgeon who performed my breast augmentation for my breast revision?

You’re welcome to return to your original surgeon, but it’s perfectly common to choose someone new for breast revision. In fact, if you weren’t fully happy with your original breast augmentation results, a fresh perspective and refined technique can make all the difference in achieving the look you’ve always wanted. Breast revision is also considered more nuanced than a primary augmentation, since it may involve correcting earlier work. Dr. Ellis is well known for his expertise with the breast, and many women seek him out specifically for revision to achieve a more beautiful, natural-looking result.

How much does breast revision cost in Chicago? Is it covered by medical insurance?

The cost of breast revision varies based on the implants you select and whether any concerns (such as hardened scar tissue) from a previous surgery need to be addressed. During your consultation, Dr. Ellis will provide a personalized quote so you know exactly what to expect. Financing is also available through CareCredit. Most breast revisions are considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance. In certain situations, however, when implant removal is deemed “medically necessary,” your insurance may help cover the procedure. A referral from a physician can improve your chances of coverage.

Do I have to replace my breast implants?

While many women love their breast implants long-term, it’s not unusual to reach a point where they simply no longer match your lifestyle. If you’d prefer to remove your implants without replacing them, breast implant removal (also called breast explant surgery) is an option. Because your breasts may look softer or less full afterward, it’s wise to choose a reconstruction specialist like Dr. Ellis — someone with the refined techniques needed to keep your breasts looking beautiful at their new, smaller size.

Will I have new scarring after breast revision surgery?

Dr. Ellis intentionally places his incisions along the same lines used for your original implants, so no new scars are added to your body.

Can breast revision improve drooping?

Breast revision is designed to remove and replace your implants. Changing the size, shape, or texture of your implants doesn’t significantly correct the natural sagging (ptosis) that every woman experiences over time. The good news: Dr. Ellis can pair a breast lift — which elevates the breasts and restores a youthful nipple position — with breast revision for a more complete, refreshed transformation.

Breast Revision Chicago - Implant Correction Surgery Chicago

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Overview & Dedicated Consultation

Breast reconstruction is a transformative journey, but achieving a balanced, natural, and comfortable result often requires specialized secondary care. As a reconstructive specialist with over 15 years of practice in downtown Chicago, Dr. Ellis regularly consults with patients who have completed initial implant- or autologous flap-based reconstruction elsewhere but remain dissatisfied with their aesthetic contour, symmetry, or physical comfort. The experience begins with a dedicated, compassionate consultation where Dr. Ellis and his team carefully evaluate surgical history, skin quality, tissue mobility, and current physical symptoms. Dr. Ellis’s practice philosophy centers on individualized care: whether a patient requires minor adjustments or a complex multi-stage revision, he designs a customized surgical strategy aimed at restoring both form and well-being.

Indications & Surgical Goals

Secondary surgery is tailored to address a broad range of functional and aesthetic concerns that can follow primary reconstruction. Common indications include noticeable volume asymmetry, implant capsular contracture, malposition, persistent deformity, or severe skin and tissue damage resulting from radiation therapy. For patients suffering from radiation-induced changes, complete salvage surgery, often incorporating autologous tissue transfer, can revitalize damaged tissue and create a stable, beautiful foundation. Beyond cosmetic refinements, Dr. Ellis specializes in the diagnosis and surgical management of Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome (PMPS), utilizing targeted nerve release or targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) techniques to alleviate chronic chest wall pain, hypersensitivity, or nerve entrapment.

Recovery & Strategy

Because each revision plan is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomical needs, recovery timelines vary based on the extent of tissue remodeling or nerve intervention required. Minor contouring and scar revisions are often performed on an outpatient basis with a quick return to routine activities within a week, whereas complex autologous salvage or deep-tissue reconstructions require a more structured, multi-week healing phase. Throughout the post-operative period, Dr. Ellis and his team provide rigorous monitoring and supportive care to manage discomfort, optimize skin healing, and protect long-term results. The ultimate goal is to deliver a balanced, comfortable, and natural outcome that allows patients to feel fully confident in their bodies once again.

Breast Revision FAQs

Today’s silicone and saline implants can typically last about 10 to 20 years without issue. Many women choose to refresh their implants within that window to stay ahead of any future concerns, but if your implants are still in great shape, there’s no need to replace them prematurely.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Ellis

Ready to explore your breast revision options? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ellis today. Call (312) 695-6022 or book your appointment.

Breast Revision in Chicago