Revision cosmetic surgery is a second or subsequent operation to improve or correct the result of an earlier procedure. It is usually more complex than the first operation because of scar tissue and altered anatomy, and it is generally best to wait until healing has fully settled, often at least six to twelve months, before deciding. A careful assessment identifies what can realistically be improved.
Why revision is sometimes needed
Revision does not always mean the first operation went wrong. Reasons include:
- Healing and scar tissue: such as capsular contracture around breast implants or thickened scars.
- Anatomical change over time: pregnancy, weight change and ageing alter the result of even a well-performed operation.
- Device lifespan: breast implants are not lifetime devices and may need exchange.
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities: for example after liposuction or tummy tuck.
- A result that differs from expectations: sometimes from unclear goals or unrealistic expectations at the outset.
- Complications: such as infection, wound breakdown or implant malposition.
Common types of revision
Mr Nassab’s revision work covers several procedures, including:
- Breast: implant exchange, capsule removal, correcting double bubble or waterfall deformity, implant removal with or without uplift, and revision uplift.
- Body: correcting irregular contours after liposuction, dog ears or a high scar after tummy tuck.
- Face and eyelids: addressing asymmetry or persistent excess skin after blepharoplasty or facelift.
- Scars: scar revision to improve wide, raised or poorly placed scars.
How long should you wait?
Tissues continue to change for months after surgery. Swelling settles gradually, implants drop and soften, and scars mature over 12 to 18 months. Operating too early can mean correcting something that would have improved on its own, and operating in inflamed, healing tissue is more difficult. As a guide, many surgeons wait at least six months, and often a year, before revision. The exception is an urgent problem, such as bleeding, infection or a wound complication, which is managed straight away by the treating team.
Your revision consultation
Bring as much information as you can: operation notes, implant cards, photographs from before your first surgery, and a description of what concerns you. Mr Nassab will examine the area, explain what caused the problem if this can be determined, and discuss what is likely to improve and what may not. You will be encouraged to prioritise your concerns, because revision can rarely address everything at once. Where a problem stems from surgery elsewhere, communication with your original surgeon may be helpful.
What can and cannot be improved
Revision can often improve shape, symmetry, implant position, contour and scar placement. It is more limited where tissue has been lost, skin is very thin, the blood supply has been compromised, or there have been several earlier operations. Each operation adds scar tissue, so revision results can be less predictable than a first procedure. A frank discussion helps you decide whether the likely improvement is worth the recovery and risks.
Recovery and risks
Recovery is usually similar to, or slightly longer than, the original operation. Risks include those of any surgery, such as bleeding, infection and blood clots, plus a higher chance of wound healing problems and of the need for further surgery. Stopping smoking and optimising your health beforehand makes a real difference.
Surgery after treatment abroad
Many revision patients had their first operation overseas and returned home without a plan for aftercare. Revision can still be offered, but the lack of operation notes can make planning harder. Try to request your operation notes and implant details from the overseas clinic as early as possible, as these can be difficult to obtain later. Cosmetic surgery is only available to adults aged 18 and over.
Looking after yourself emotionally
Being unhappy with the result of surgery you chose and paid for can be upsetting, and it is common to feel anxious about going through another operation. Take the time you need, bring someone you trust to your consultation, and ask as many questions as you need to feel informed. A good revision consultation should leave you with a clear understanding of the options, including the option of not having further surgery, rather than a sense of pressure. If low mood or preoccupation with your appearance is affecting daily life, speaking to your GP is a sensible step before any further surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after surgery can revision be done?
Usually after at least six to twelve months, once swelling has settled and scars have matured, unless there is an urgent complication.
Is revision surgery more expensive?
It is often more expensive because it takes longer and is more complex. A change of breast implants starts from £10,000; other revision is quoted at consultation.
Will my original surgeon pay for revision?
Some surgeons have a revision policy. Check what your original agreement covers before seeking a second opinion.
Can Mr Nassab revise surgery performed abroad?
Yes, in many cases. Operation notes and implant details are very helpful for planning.
