Breast Implant Exchange in Orange County, Irvine, and Beverly Hills, CA

Breast implant exchange is a surgical procedure designed to remove existing breast implants and replace them with new ones.

Over time, personal preferences, lifestyle changes, or medical concerns may lead individuals who have previously undergone a breast implant procedure to seek an implant exchange. Some patients desire a different size or shape to better align with their body goals, while others may need a revision due to implant complications such as rupture, capsular contracture, or displacement. In any case, all implants need to be replaced eventually, typically after 10 years or longer.

Whether you are seeking larger breasts after an initial augmentation or need corrective surgery to address complications, breast enhancement procedures such as a breast implant exchange can help you achieve your goals.

Serving the Beverly Hills and Irvine areas for years, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael J. Yoo and his team specialize in a variety of cosmetic procedures, including breast implant exchanges. If you live in the Greater Los Angeles or Orange County areas and are interested in seeking breast enhancement procedures, Dr. Yoo and his staff can help you achieve your goals with personalized care and advanced techniques.

Contact Dr. Yoo and his staff to schedule a virtual consultation or call our Beverly Hills location at (424) 209-9925 or our Newport Beach office at (949) 861-3340.

About Breast Implant Exchange

Breast implant exchange is a procedure that allows individuals who have previously undergone breast augmentation to update or correct their implants based on their evolving preferences or medical needs. Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States, and as such, implant exchange has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years. (1) Many factors can influence the decision to undergo breast implant exchange, such as the desire for different implant sizes or styles, addressing complications like capsular contracture (a condition where scar tissue constricts around the implant), or replacing older implants with newer, more advanced ones.

Types of Breast Implants

There are generally two primary types of breast implants available for augmentation or exchange:

  • Silicone Implants: These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that feels similar to natural breast tissue. They come in various shapes, sizes, and textures. Silicone implants are popular among individuals seeking a more natural feel. (2)
  • Saline Implants: These are filled with sterile saltwater (saline). If a saline implant leaks, the saline is absorbed by the body, and the implant deflates. Saline implants can be inserted through smaller incisions since they are filled after positioning. (2)

In addition to these, there are variations like textured vs. smooth surfaces, round vs. anatomical shapes, and different volumes, allowing patients and surgeons to select the best options based on desired aesthetics and body proportions.

Benefits

Breast implant exchange procedures are popular for a reason, and that is largely due to the many benefits these procedures offer to patients who seek them. Some of these benefits often include:

  • Enhanced Aesthetic Outcomes: Patients can achieve an updated look with breast size, shape, or configuration that better fits their vision.
  • Addressing Complications: Problems such as capsular contracture or implant rupture can be resolved, improving comfort and safety.
  • Updated Technology: Newer implant designs often incorporate advances that offer longer-lasting results and a more natural feel.
  • Correction of Discomfort: Some individuals may find their previous implants uncomfortable; an exchange can remedy this issue.
  • Size Adjustment: Patients wishing to go larger or smaller can benefit from exchanging their implants to match changes in their lifestyle or self-image.
  • Improved Contour: A well-performed exchange can restore or improve breast contour and fullness, enhancing confidence.
  • Maintaining Health: Routine checks and timely exchanges can promote long-term breast health and satisfaction.
  • Discreet Scarring Options: The use of existing scars from prior surgeries can often minimize the visibility of scars resulting from an exchange.

Ideal Candidates

Multiple factors will contribute to whether or not you are an ideal candidate for breast implant exchange. Candidacy is usually open to:

  • Individuals desiring a different implant size or type.
  • Those experiencing complications, such as discomfort or noticeable scarring.
  • Patients who wish to replace older implants with newer, more advanced models.
  • Women who have reached maturity and want to evaluate their aesthetic goals, aligning them with their overall physique.

Ideal candidates should be in good general health and possess realistic expectations for their results. A thorough discussion during your personal consultation with Dr. Yoo will help determine if this procedure suits individual concerns.

Personal Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Yoo will evaluate your breast implants, breast tissue, and overall health to determine the most appropriate approach for your breast implant exchange. This consultation will allow you to discuss your aesthetic concerns and surgical goals with Dr. Yoo, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect. He will explain the specifics of the breast implant exchange procedure, including the surgical techniques involved, potential risks, and expected outcomes. This is also the perfect time to ask questions and voice any concerns, allowing Dr. Yoo to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and desired results.

To schedule this personal consultation, contact Dr. Yoo and his staff online or by calling our Beverly Hills location at (424) 209-9925 or our Newport Beach office at (949) 861-3340. For those interested, Dr. Yoo and his team also offer virtual consultations.

Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for a successful breast implant exchange and smooth recovery. Dr. Yoo’s team may request medical evaluations or lab tests to confirm that you are in good health for surgery. To minimize potential complications, you likely will need to avoid certain medications and supplements that can thin the blood. If you smoke or use other forms of nicotine, you will be asked to quit several weeks before and after the procedure to support optimal healing.

You will also be advised to arrange transportation home and ensure you have proper assistance during the initial recovery period to promote a safe and comfortable post-surgical experience. Dr. Yoo’s team will provide comprehensive pre-operative instructions to help you prepare effectively and achieve the best possible outcome.

Procedure

The details of each breast implant procedure will vary based on the patient’s customized treatment plan. Typically, Dr. Yoo begins breast implant procedures by administering some form of anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. Dr. Yoo will then carefully make incisions, typically along the same lines as your original breast augmentation incisions, to minimize additional scarring. He will gently remove the existing implants, assess the breast pocket, and make any necessary adjustments to accommodate the new implants.

Depending on your goals, he may modify the implant placement, reinforce the surrounding tissues, or perform a capsulectomy to remove scar tissue. Once the new implants are in position, he will meticulously close the incisions with sutures, ensuring optimal healing and a natural-looking result. Procedure times are naturally subject to variation, but this procedure tends to last between one and three hours.

Recovery

The recovery process following a breast implant exchange involves several key stages. In the first few days, you may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications and proper post-operative care. It will be important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and upper body exercises for several weeks to allow your body to heal properly. Dr. Yoo encourages you to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure your recovery is going smoothly. Adhering to his post-operative guidelines will help minimize complications and promote the best possible results.

Results

Patients can expect improved breast shape, symmetry, and overall appearance after their breast implant exchange. Whether the procedure is performed to replace older implants, adjust implant size, or address complications, the outcome will provide a refreshed and enhanced look. Breast implant exchange procedures, especially when performed using the techniques employed by a trained professional such as Dr. Yoo, are commonly associated with high patient satisfaction rates. (3) With proper care and regular check-ups, the results of a breast implant exchange can be long-lasting, allowing patients to feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance.

Cost of Breast Implant Procedures in Orange County, Irvine, and Beverly Hills

The cost of a breast implant exchange will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the specific needs of each patient. Dr. Yoo and his team will provide you with a personalized cost estimate and will be happy to answer any cost-related questions you may have.

FAQ

What Are Common Reasons for Breast Implant Exchange?

Breast implant exchange may be sought due to personal preference changes, complications such as capsular contracture, deflation of saline implants, or simply wanting updated or more advanced implants.

How Often Should I Exchange My Implants?

While no set timeline exists for every individual, many surgeons recommend evaluating implants every ten years or sooner if there are concerns.

Will There Be Scars After Surgery?

Scarring depends on incision placement and technique. Efforts will be made to use existing incisions for the exchange and minimize visible scarring.

Can I Change Sizes When Exchanging Implants?

Yes, many patients choose to alter the size of their implants during exchange to meet their current desires. It is essential to discuss your goals openly during your consultation.

Is Breast Implant Exchange Painful?

Pain levels vary among individuals; however, most patients report manageable discomfort. Prescription medications will be given to assist with control during the early recovery phase.

Can I Have Additional Procedures Done With My Implant Exchange?

Many patients opt for combined procedures, such as a breast lift or other enhancements, if desired and suitable for their treatment plan.

When Can I Return to Normal Activities?

Most patients can resume mild activities within a week, while rigorous exercise should be avoided for several weeks. Follow Dr. Yoo’s recommendations for a safe recovery timeline.

References

  1. ASPS. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf
  2. Swanson E. Prospective Study of Saline versus Silicone Gel Implants for Subpectoral Breast Augmentation. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2020;Publish Ahead of Print. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000002882
  3. Wednesday M 1. Breast Augmentation Patients Report High Satisfaction Rates. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/breast-augmentation-patients-report-high-satisfaction-rates