Breast Revision in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, CA
The goal of breast augmentation is to achieve beautifully proportioned, fuller, and more youthful breasts. But over time, your lifestyle and ideals for your body can change, leading you to want the implants changed or removed. Problems with implants can occur, too, which can affect the look of your breasts, your comfort, or your health, and these complications can be reasons to have the implants removed or replaced.
Breast revision is surgery to remove or replace breast implants, whether for personal, cosmetic, or medical reasons. The surgery might involve replacing implants to change their type or size, removing hardened tissue that has formed around the implants, or removing implants without replacing them. When implants are removed without replacement, or when large implants are replaced with smaller ones, breast revision can be combined with a breast lift to restore the breasts to an attractive shape.
David Feldmar, MD, at Feldmar Aesthetics, performs breast revision in Beverly Hills to help women in the Los Angeles area who are dissatisfied with their initial breast surgery or have problems with their breast implants. Dr. Feldmar is a double board-certified plastic surgeon, who combines art, science, and deep expertise in his medical work to create natural-looking results for his patients. He and his staff run have developed their practice into a warm and welcoming experience where patients feel comfortable, heard, and appreciated for who they are.
To learn more about breast revision surgery in Beverly Hills with Dr. Feldmar, contact Feldmar Aesthetics today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Why You Might Consider Breast Revision in Beverly Hills with Dr. Feldmar
You might choose to have breast implants removed or replaced for personal reasons or to correct problems.
Personal reasons to have breast implants removed or replaced include a desire for:
- Larger or smaller breasts—whether from a change in preferences or lifestyle, a mistaken choice of original implant size, or changes in the size or shape of the breasts over time
- A different type of implant—exchanging silicone for saline implants, for example, or saline for silicone
Reasons for Breast Revision could include:
- Implant displacement—when an implant shifts out of position
- Asymmetry—when the breasts do not match in size or shape
- Implant rippling—when implants visibly wrinkle or ripple beneath the skin
- Implant leakage or rupture—a noticeable cosmetic concern when a saline implant leaks and deflates; a potential medical concern when a silicone implant ruptures
- Difficulty obtaining clear images in mammography screening for breast cancer
- Capsular contracture—thick, hardened scar tissue that naturally forms around the implant, putting pressure on the implant that sometimes distorts the shape of the breast, causing discomfort or pain
- Infection of the tissue around an implant
- Evidence of BIA-ALCL, Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, a rare form of lymphoma that can be associated with certain textured implants
Planning Your Breast Revision Surgery in Beverly Hills
If you are bothered by the results of your breast augmentation or have problems related to your implants, your next step is a private consultation with Dr. Feldmar. In your consultation, Dr. Feldmar will ask questions to understand any problems you are experiencing, your dissatisfaction with the results of the initial surgery, and your goals for the revision procedure. He will also ask questions to fully understand your medical history. He will then examine you to determine the safest and most effective way to correct the problems and obtain the results you’re seeking.
In your consultation, Dr. Feldmar will explain the options available and what you can expect from the surgery, and he’ll answer any questions you may have. He makes you an intimate part of the process, and the two of you work as a team to determine the best course of treatment. Dr. Feldmar’s goal, and the goal of everyone at Feldmar Aesthetics, is to help you make informed decisions, have realistic expectations, and feel comfortable throughout each step of your experience.
Breast Implant Revision Options
Just as you had choices of implant types and sizes in your breast augmentation surgery, so you have choices in breast implant revision.
As the first step in the procedure, the existing implants need to be removed. This can be done with either of two approaches:
Simple breast implant removal involves removing the implant without removing any of the surrounding breast tissue. This approach may be used when the implants are intact and the surrounding tissue is healthy.
Implant removal with tissue excision. If your implants are being removed or replaced because of capsular contracture (the thickening and hardening of the tissues surrounding the implant) or because silicone gel has leaked into the breast tissue, the affected tissue will be removed along with the implant. In some cases, the affected tissue and the implant are removed together, as a single piece, a procedure known as en bloc implant removal.
If you choose to have the implants replaced, your options include:
Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile saline solution or salt water. When deflated due to leakage, the solution is absorbed by the surrounding tissue and naturally removed from the body. Saline implants are of two kinds: single-lumen and double-lumen. The latest double-lumen saline implants have internal shells that make them feel similar to silicone gel implants. These implants are also designed to maintain a better shape and reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel that closely matches the natural flexibility of breast tissue. If there is leakage, the body won’t absorb the gel in the implants. Hence, routine checkups are needed (once every couple of years) to monitor the implant status.
Implant size and shape. The thickness and width of the implants determine breast size and projection. The shape of the implants, round or teardrop, affects the resulting breast shape.
Implant placement. Implants can be placed within the soft tissue of the breast (subglandular placement), or behind the chest muscles (subpectoral placement). The best implant placement option for you will depend on your anatomy and lifestyle and the problems being corrected.
If you choose to have the implants removed without replacement, you might choose to combine breast implant removal with a breast lift. A breast lift restores an attractive shape to the breasts and corrects sagging. Without a breast lift, implant removal can leave the breasts looking deflated or droopy.
Meet David Feldmar, MD
Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Discover the renowned artistry of Dr. David Feldmar, a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, who crafts natural-looking transformations with precision and care. Dr. Feldmar takes a personalized approach to plastic surgery where comfort and appreciation for the individual are at the forefront. Begin your journey toward a more confident you by scheduling a complimentary consultation with Dr. Feldmar and his expert team today!
How Is Breast Revision Surgery Performed?
Breast revision surgery is performed in our state-of-the-art Swall Surgery Center in Beverly Hills, designed and built to our specifications to provide safe, high-quality, personalized patient care. Breast revision surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, using general anesthesia.
In the procedure, Dr. Feldmar will make incisions for removing and, if desired, replacing the implants. These incisions will usually be made along the same lines used in the original breast augmentation procedure. Dr. Feldmar will then remove the original implants along with any damaged tissue if necessary.
If the implants are being replaced, and no tissue has been removed, Dr. Feldmar will place the new implants in the same pocket. Strattice®, a tissue substitute, may be used to hold the replacement implants in place if the breasts’ natural tissue is insufficient, as might be the case when correcting implant malposition or after damaged breast tissue has been removed.
If the implants are being removed without replacement, or large implants are being replaced with smaller ones, the procedure may be combined with a breast lift to correct sagging and reshape the breasts. This involves removing excess skin and repositioning tissue within the breast.
Once the changes have been made, the incisions are closed, and the procedure is complete. The procedure can take as little as 30 minutes or as long as 3 hours.
When you have recovered from the anesthesia, you can go home. You’ll need to arrange to have a friend or family member drive you and stay with you for at least the first night.
Sculpting Dreams
Shaping Confidence
Enhance your natural beauty using the most advanced echniques and technologies with double board-certified plastic surgeon, David Feldmar, MD.
Your Breast Revision Recovery
Plan to rest at home for a few days after your surgery, and to have someone available to help you with household tasks or childcare. You won’t be able to lift anything heavy or reach above your head for the first few days, so will likely need help. It’s common to feel some soreness at first, which can be managed with pain medication. You can also expect to experience some swelling. Wearing a surgical bra will help control the swelling while keeping the new implants (if applicable) in position as your breasts heal.
Dr. Feldmar will provide instructions on how to care for the wounds to prevent infection, when to return for follow-up appointments, and how to gradually resume normal activities. Most patients can return to work after 5 to 7 days, or a bit longer if the job requires lifting. You can start to exercise again after a month, beginning with low-impact aerobic activities, and gradually build up to your regular exercise routine at about two months.
You’ll notice the changes to your breasts right away and will see the final results at about six months when all of the post-surgical swelling has resolved.
Schedule Your Breast Revision Consultation in Beverly Hills
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Feldmar to find out how breast revision or implant removal can resolve your concerns and help you look and feel better. Dr. Feldmar aims to understand your goals for the procedure and will recommend only the safest and most effective approach to deliver beautiful results.
Breast Revision
Implant Removal FAQs in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, CA
Breast implant revision surgery is designed to address and improve the results of a previous breast augmentation. This can involve removing or replacing implants, adjusting the size or type, or addressing issues like capsular contracture, implant displacement, or changes in the appearance over time. Depending on your goals, we might choose to replace the implants with new ones, remove them altogether, or combine the procedure with a breast lift for a more natural contour.
Breast revision surgery is focused on refining or correcting the results of a prior surgery, whether it’s due to aesthetic changes, complications, or simply a change in your preferences. Unlike a primary augmentation, it requires careful attention to the existing implants and scar tissue, which can make the procedure more complex. My goal is to address any concerns you have while achieving a balanced, natural look that aligns with your current goals.
If you’re unhappy with the appearance or feel of your current implants, are experiencing discomfort, or have complications such as rippling, asymmetry, or capsular contracture, a breast revision might be the solution. It’s also an option if you simply want to change the size or shape of your implants. During our consultation, I’ll assess your needs, examine your current implants, and help determine if a revision is the best option for achieving your desired outcome.
Breast revision surgery comes with some risks, including infection, changes in nipple sensation, scarring, or complications related to the new implants or removal process. There’s also the possibility of asymmetry or the need for further adjustments. I take every precaution to minimize these risks, and we’ll discuss them in detail during your consultation so you can feel confident in your decision.
Preparation for breast revision is similar to other surgical procedures. I’ll provide you with specific guidelines, such as avoiding certain medications and supplements, and ensuring you have a comfortable space for recovery at home. It’s also essential to arrange for a friend or family member to help you during the first day or two after surgery. Following these steps will help ensure a smoother experience and optimal results.
On the day of your breast revision, you’ll meet with me and my surgical team to review the plan and answer any last-minute questions. The procedure itself is typically performed under general anesthesia and can last anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity. After the surgery, you’ll spend some time in a recovery room before heading home with detailed aftercare instructions to support your healing.
Recovery from a breast revision varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Generally, you can expect to take 1-2 weeks off from work and avoid strenuous activities for about 4-6 weeks. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are normal during the initial healing period, but I’ll closely monitor your progress to ensure you’re healing well and on track to achieving your desired results.
The results of a breast revision can be long-lasting, but it’s important to remember that factors like aging, weight changes, and lifestyle can affect your breasts over time. While I aim to create results that stand the test of time, you may still experience natural changes as your body evolves. We’ll discuss your expectations during our consultation to ensure we create a plan that suits your long-term goals.
To achieve the best possible results, it’s essential to follow my post-operative instructions closely. This includes wearing any recommended compression garments, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could strain your incisions. A healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a stable weight and taking care of your skin, can also help preserve your new look for years to come.
Significant weight fluctuations can impact the appearance of your breasts after a revision, as the natural breast tissue will respond to changes in weight. While the implants themselves won’t change size, weight gain or loss can affect the overall shape and feel of your breasts. If maintaining a stable weight is a challenge, we can discuss how to best manage these changes during your consultation to ensure lasting satisfaction with your results.
Dr. Feldmar recommends waiting at least a year after your initial breast surgery before considering a revision to give your body time to heal and your implants to settle into place. However, he may suggest a shorter timeline if you experience complications like capsular contracture or a ruptured implant.
There’s no set limit to how many breast revisions you can have, but your health, skin quality, and tissue integrity determine what’s possible. Dr. Feldmar uses his experience to prioritize patient safety and create a plan to achieve lasting results with optimal satisfaction.
You can typically resume light exercise, like walking, after one to two weeks. Avoid strenuous workouts, especially those involving your chest muscles, for four to six weeks to prevent complications. Always follow Dr. Feldmar’s postoperative guidelines, as your recovery timeline may vary based on the specifics of your surgery.
It’s best to avoid sleeping on your side for at least four to six weeks after breast surgery to minimize pressure on the healing tissue. Instead, sleep on your back and surround your body with pillows that prevent you from rolling over. You can return to your preferred sleeping position once Dr. Feldmar gives you the all-clear.
You’ll need to wear a supportive bra or surgical garment for six to eight weeks to aid healing and maintain implant positioning. After this point, you can typically go braless for short periods. However, regularly wearing a supportive bra is one of the best ways to maintain your results long-term. Always check with Dr. Feldmar before changing your postop routine.