Breast Revision Surgery and Breast Implant Removal in San Francisco, CA
While many patients who undergo implant-based breast augmentation are happy with their results, some may experience complications or changes in their aesthetic preferences over time that require breast revision surgery or breast implant removal. These procedures can help restore a woman’s confidence in her appearance, alleviate discomfort or pain, and help her realize the breast appearance that aligns with her current aesthetic goals and personal preferences.
Breast revision surgery is a specialized procedure that is designed to address issues that arise after the initial breast augmentation surgery. This may include implant rupture or deflation, capsular contracture or hardening of the implants, implant malposition, or size and shape dissatisfaction. Revision surgery may involve the removal or replacement of the existing implants with newer generation implants that feel softer and appear more natural, partial or complete capsule removal, fat transfer, or the reshaping of the breast tissue to achieve the desired result.
Breast implant removal is another option for patients who wish to remove their breast implants entirely. Some women may choose to have their implants extracted for personal or health reasons, such as discomfort or an implant rupture. In other cases, patients may simply decide years later to return to their original breast size, or they may feel their breast size no longer matches the rest of their frame after changes that have occurred due to weight loss or pregnancy. After implant removal, patients may also consider options such as fat transfer or breast lift surgery to address deflation or skin sag and help enhance the appearance of their breasts.
At Ethos Plastic Surgery in San Francisco, Harvard-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Ginger Xu offers breast revision surgery and implant removal services to help women achieve the breast appearance they want. Dr. Xu understands that every woman’s needs and goals are unique, and she takes a personalized approach to each patient’s care.
Are you interested in learning more about what San Francisco breast revision surgery and implant removal can do for you? Call Ethos Plastic Surgery at (415) 506-4300 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Xu to learn more. We proudly serve patients in and around the Bay Area.
Why Choose Dr. Xu for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Revision Surgery in San Francisco?
As an Ivy League-trained plastic surgeon, Dr. Xu has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to breast revision and implant removal surgery. She values each patient as an individual and takes the time to listen to their concerns and goals for the procedure. Dr. Xu considers it an honor to be entrusted with the care of her patients and the opportunity to help them improve their appearance and confidence.
As a female plastic surgeon, Dr. Xu understands the relationship between how your breast appearance may affect how you feel as a woman. As a woman herself, she can also more closely relate to your goals and where you’re coming from. Many patients find this commonality and understanding a reassuring part of working with a female plastic surgeon like Dr. Xu.
Patients in the San Francisco area choose Dr. Xu for her expertise, compassionate approach, and eye for natural-looking results. She is one of the few board-certified plastic surgeons on the West Coast who has completed the rigorous Harvard Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Fellowship, which accepts only one applicant each year. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to patient care make her an excellent choice for breast revision and implant removal surgery.
Our Approach to Cosmetic Breast Surgery – Small Breast Beauty
At our practice, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to cosmetic breast surgery. This individualism and diversity in beauty outcomes are cherished by Dr. Xu, and she is committed to offering her patients the best possible care.
One of the reasons why our approach stands out is our belief in “Small Breast Beauty.” Dr. Xu is an advocate for natural-looking breast surgery (whether through augmentation or revision surgery) that is based on shape rather than size as a way to enhance a woman’s body and beauty. Bigger is not better, and breasts don’t have to be large to be beautiful. We dispel the common misconception that breast surgery only results in an artificial, overdone appearance. Our goal is to create a natural, enhanced breast appearance that matches the rest of your body, and we are committed to achieving that for each patient.
Meet Dr. Ginger Xu
Dr. Xu embraces the responsibility and transformative opportunity to alter a patient’s appearance in a way that is congruent with their own values and matches a more cohesive sense of self; to realign the external with the internal; to create an improved emotional landscape and a better life. These ideals captivate and inspire her every day.
Reasons for Breast Revision Surgery or Breast Implant Removal
There are a number of reasons why women may want breast revision surgery or implant removal, including:
Implant Deflation
Implant deflation applies only to saline implants and can occur due to a variety of factors, such as natural wear and tear, trauma, or a manufacturing defect. When an implant deflates, it can result in asymmetry between the breasts, a less full appearance, and even discomfort. In these cases, implant replacement surgery is typically necessary to restore the breast’s natural look and feel.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to constrict and harden over time. This can result in a breast deformity, discomfort, and even pain. Revision surgery for capsular contracture usually involves removing the scar tissue and replacing the implant to restore the breast’s natural appearance and feel.
Implant Rippling or Wrinkling
In some cases, breast implants may develop ripples or wrinkles, particularly in thinner patients with less natural breast tissue. This can be especially noticeable in certain positions or when wearing tight clothing. Revision surgery for implant rippling or wrinkling may involve switching to a different implant type, placing the implant in a different tissue plane, or fat transfer to improve the breast’s smoothness and contour.
Size or Shape Dissatisfaction
Sometimes, a patient may be unhappy with the results of their initial breast augmentation surgery. This can occur if the implant size or shape does not match their aesthetic goals or if their preferences change over time. In these cases, revision surgery may involve replacing the implant with a different size or shape or transferring fat to achieve the desired look and feel.
Implants No Longer Wanted
Finally, some women may choose to have their breast implants removed altogether, either for personal or health reasons. This may include cases where the patient experiences health complications related to the implants, such as implant rupture or leakage, or if they decide that they no longer want to have implants for personal reasons. Implant removal surgery may involve removing the entire implant and capsule alone, or also performing a breast lift or fat transfer to achieve an optimal breast shape and contour.
Breast Revision Surgery and Implant Removal Procedure Details
Breast revision surgery and implant removal procedures are personalized to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals. Dr. Xu will discuss the best surgical approach and technique for your individual situation, including whether a breast lift or fat grafting may be necessary.
During the procedure, Dr. Xu may remove the implant and surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy), replace the implant, or perform a combination of both. Dr. Xu has found that the majority of revision surgeries are due to capsular contracture, which will require partial or complete removal of the capsule.
If a capsulectomy is required, Dr. Xu may perform an en-bloc procedure, in which the implant and surrounding scar tissue are removed together as a single unit. This technique is used when the capsule is particularly thick or when there is concern about implant rupture or contamination. It’s important to note that Dr. Xu will only perform this procedure if it is indicated and safe for the patient.
For patients who choose to have their implants removed, fat grafting may be an option to restore lost breast volume and shape. This procedure involves removing excess fat from another area of the body via liposuction, purifying the fat, and then injecting it into the breasts to enhance their appearance. Dr. Xu can discuss whether fat grafting is a suitable option for you during your consultation.
Dr. Xu also offers breast lift surgery to address sagging or drooping breasts, which can occur after implant removal. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted to create a more youthful and lifted appearance.
After the procedure, patients will need to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including restrictions on physical activity and wearing a supportive garment. Recovery time will vary depending on the extent of the surgery and individual healing times.
Partner with Dr. Ginger Xu, a Leading Female Plastic Surgeon in San Francisco
Being a female plastic surgeon allows Dr. Xu to relate to and empathize with her breast revision and implant removal patients on a more personal level.
“Women face a unique set of challenges as we are confronted by societal messaging regarding idealized figures and body types. Sometimes it’s hard to know what is society’s noise versus your own true voice in the matter. As a woman, I understand what it’s like to navigate this while also trying to stay true to what you want for your own body, on your own terms, regardless of what other people think, or how it fits into norms or not. Ultimately, doing what’s right for you is the greatest act of self-care.”
Dr. Xu firmly believes in plastic surgery that is an expression of self-love, body positivity, and emphasizing natural beauty. She can relate to why you may want to have a cosmetic procedure done and advise you on the best ways to reach your desired results.
Contact us Today for a Consultation
Dr. Ginger Xu will work with you to create a personalized surgical plan that addresses your unique needs and goals, using the most advanced techniques and technology available. The team at Ethos Plastic Surgery is committed to providing you with excellent care and results.
To learn more about breast revision surgery and implant removal in San Francisco, CA, schedule a consultation with Dr. Xu today by calling (415) 506-4300 or filling out our website contact form. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
FAQs
San Francisco Breast Revision and implant removal surgery
Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. It happens when scar tissue forms around the breast implant and tightens over time, resulting in breast hardness, discomfort, or deformity.
Breast implant illness is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that some women with breast implants report experiencing, such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and other systemic symptoms. While there is no definitive evidence that breast implants directly cause these symptoms, some women have reported improvement in their symptoms after having their implants removed. It’s important to note that breast implant illness is not an official medical diagnosis and there is ongoing research to better understand its causes and potential treatments.
A saline implant rupture will present as a sudden deflation or decrease in breast size, usually on one side only. A silicone breast implant rupture can be difficult to detect without medical imaging. Some signs that your silicone implant may have ruptured include a change in breast shape or size, breast pain, swelling, or tenderness, and a feeling of firmness or hardness in the breast. It’s important to note that some silicone ruptures may not cause any noticeable symptoms.
At Ethos Plastic Surgery, Dr. Xu offers a peace-of-mind implant surveillance program that uses advanced imaging technology to detect potential implant issues early. The program includes in-office breast imaging with ultrasound to monitor implant integrity and identify any changes or abnormalities without the need to make an additional appointment with another provider. This service can help provide patients with peace of mind and detect potential issues early, allowing for prompt treatment.
The recovery period after breast revision surgery or implant removal will vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s individual healing process. Generally, patients can expect to experience some degree of swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days following the surgery.
Patients will need to wear a supportive garment for a period of time to help reduce swelling and promote proper healing, and some may require use of a drain. It is essential to follow all of Dr. Xu’s post-operative instructions carefully, including any restrictions on physical activity and the use of pain medications.
A good candidate is someone who has had a prior breast augmentation and now faces issues or changes that make her unhappy with her breasts. This can include medical complications: for example, a leaking/ruptured implant, capsular contracture (when scar tissue tightens around the implant), or implant malposition (shifting of the implant), as well as aesthetic concerns like visible rippling or an undesired size/shape. You may also consider breast revision or explant surgery if your personal preferences have changed over time and you simply no longer want implants.
In any case, candidates should be in overall good health and have realistic expectations. Dr. Xu will evaluate your specific situation and help determine if a revision or complete implant removal is the right option for you.
“Breast revision” is an umbrella term for any secondary breast surgery that corrects or changes the result of an initial augmentation. It often involves adjusting or replacing the implants rather than removing them. For example, swapping out an old implant for a new one, changing implant size or type, or fixing issues with the implant’s position.
In contrast, breast implant removal (explant surgery) means taking out the implants entirely. In an implant removal procedure, no new implant is placed (unless the plan is to remove both old implants and put in a different pair as part of a combined revision). Some women choose to remove their implants without replacement, especially if they have health concerns or simply feel implants no longer suit their lifestyle. In those cases, additional steps like a breast lift may be recommended to maintain a beautiful breast shape after the implants are taken out.
The decision to replace (exchange) your implants versus remove them depends on your personal goals and the reasons prompting your surgery.
If you still desire fuller breasts and are generally happy with having implants (but perhaps want a different size or need to address a problem), a revision with implant replacement might be the best choice.
On the other hand, if you’re experiencing issues that make you worry about your health (such as suspected breast implant illness or a recalled implant), or you feel that implants no longer align with your self-image, you may lean towards removing them completely. It’s not uncommon for patients to decide they simply want to “go natural” after years with implants. Other factors include your health and the condition of your breast tissue. For example, if your implants are older or you’ve had complications, you might prefer removal for peace of mind, whereas a patient who just dislikes the current size could opt for a smaller implant instead.
It depends on your anatomy and how much your skin and breast tissue have stretched with the implants, but many women do choose a breast lift at the same time as implant removal to ensure a pleasing shape.
When implants are taken out, especially large or heavy implants, the breasts can appear saggy or deflated because the skin was stretched to accommodate the implants. A breast lift can remove excess skin and tighten the breast tissue, and if needed, reposition the nipple for a youthful, uplifted look. If your implants were small and your skin has good elasticity, you might not need a lift. However, if you’ve had very large implants or your skin isn’t very elastic, a lift is likely to be beneficial to avoid a droopy appearance. Dr. Xu will examine your breasts and advise you on this during the planning of your implant removal.
Her goal is to make sure that after explant surgery (with or without a lift), your breasts look natural and proportionate to your body, in line with the “small breast beauty” philosophy of achieving beautiful shape rather than just size.
Yes, fat transfer to the breasts is an increasingly popular option, especially for women who want to maintain some volume or shape after removing their implants without inserting new implants. In a fat transfer procedure, Dr. Xu can liposuction unwanted fat from one area of your body (such as the tummy or thighs), purify it, and then inject the fat into your breast tissue to add fullness. This can often be done during the same surgery as the implant removal, so you wake up with your implants gone but a bit of your own natural fat adding volume to help prevent a “sunken” or flat look.
Fat grafting has the benefit of using your own tissue, which means the results feel soft and natural, and there’s no foreign object left in your body. While fat transfer typically can’t match the exact volume of large implants, it can noticeably improve contour and cleavage and is a great way to give you a modest increase in breast size after explantation. Another advantage is that adding fat can sometimes reduce the need for a separate extensive lift, since it helps to “fill out” the breast from within. Dr. Xu will assess if you’re a good candidate for fat grafting (you need to have enough excess fat to donate, and good overall health). For the right patient, combining implant removal with fat transfer can provide a beautiful, natural-looking result that aligns with Dr. Xu’s philosophy of enhancing your breasts’ shape in harmony with your body.