Breast augmentation is one of the most rewarding cosmetic procedures available, but implants are not always lifetime devices. Whether your aesthetic goals have changed over the years or you are experiencing a complication with an older implant, many women eventually seek out breast enhancement in Los Angeles to update their results.
Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim is highly sought after for his expertise in complex secondary breast surgeries. If you are considering a breast implant revision in Beverly Hills, here are the most common reasons patients choose to upgrade.
1. Changing Size or Shape
Your body and lifestyle change over time. A common reason for implant revision is a desire for a different size. Some women choose to downsize for a more athletic lifestyle, while others want a larger, fuller profile. Dr. Eugene Kim can safely exchange your current implants for a new volume or switch you to a modern, cohesive silicone “gummy bear” implant for a more natural feel.
2. Correcting Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around an implant hardens and squeezes the implant, causing it to feel unusually firm, look distorted, or become painful. During a revision surgery, Dr. Kim meticulously removes the hardened scar tissue (capsulectomy) and places a new implant, often using advanced techniques to prevent the issue from returning.
3. Addressing Sagging (Adding a Lift)
Pregnancy, nursing, and natural aging can cause the breast tissue to droop over time, even if you already have implants. In these cases, Dr. Kim can perform a breast implant exchange combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) to restore a perky, youthful contour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should breast implants be replaced?
There is no strict expiration date for modern breast implants. They only need to be replaced or removed if you experience a complication (like a rupture or capsular contracture) or if you decide you want to change your breast size or shape.
Is recovery from breast implant revision harder than the first time?
In many cases, recovery from an implant exchange is actually easier and faster than your original augmentation, especially if the new implants are placed in the same surgical pocket. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a week.