There are many reasons why patients might consider replacing their current breast implants for newer versions. For some, capsular contracture—when scar tissue develops around implants, causing one or both to harden—can become a problem. For others, asymmetry, either as a result of their original procedure or a natural occurrence, may result in the desire to create a more balanced appearance. Cosmetic enhancement is also a common motivator. Many of the latest models of implants provide a more natural-looking result than ever before, prompting a number of women to seek out a breast implant exchange.

No matter the reason for interest, our skilled plastic surgeons can help patients determine the appropriate treatment plan to address their individual concerns and goals. During consultation, Dr. Buchanan or Dr. Schooler will provide a thorough examination to help decide whether a woman is a qualified candidate for breast implant exchange. Some of the indicators they will look for include:

Being in good general health
Experiencing dissatisfaction with the appearance, feel, or size of the current implants
Experiencing capsular contracture, asymmetry, wrinkling, deflation, or rupture
Having reasonable expectations for results

Advancements made in breast implant technology have resulted in more durable implants that last longer than many of the original models. While individual outcomes may vary, most patients can expect the effects of breast implant replacement to be long lasting.

Contact Santa Barbara Plastic Surgery
If you have additional questions about breast implant exchange, or if you wish to schedule a consultation with either Dr. Buchanan or Dr. Schooler, please contact our office today.

One of the most exciting advances in breast augmentation is the variety of sizes, shapes, and types of breast implants available. As a result of the expansive options, many women who have had a previous breast enhancement surgery discover they wish to replace their current implants with another kind, often one that has only recently been developed. Many of our patients considering a breast implant exchange do so for cosmetic reasons, but not all individuals experience the same motivations. Both form and function can influence a woman’s desire to undergo a breast revision, especially in the case of capsular contracture (when scar tissue develops around the implant causing hardening) or deflation. In our experience, the three most common reasons for choosing breast implant exchange are:

1. Capsular contracture
2. Asymmetry
3. Implant rupture or deflation

While many individuals seek to substitute silicone implants for saline or traditional implants for the new shaped style, most of our patients experience a functional concern. Older versions of breast implants are less durable than the new models, and they are often subject to greater wear and tear in a shorter amount of time. By replacing them, women often discover a renewed satisfaction with their appearance while also enjoying the increased longevity of the new implants.

We understand every woman has unique questions and concerns. Regardless of the reason for considering breast implant exchange, we can help our patients develop a customized treatment plan that can best achieve their aesthetic goals.

Contract Santa Barbara Plastic Surgery Center
If you have additional questions about breast implant exchange or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.

At Santa Barbara Plastic Surgery Center, approximately 30 percent of our breast surgery patients undergo a breast lift. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure designed to correct sagging or drooping breasts, restoring them to a more youthful and firmer look and feel. If you are considering breast lift surgery, one of the choices you and your surgeon will discuss is the type of incision performed during your procedure.

Our plastic surgeon, Wesley G. Schooler, MD, says the type of incision will often depend on level of lift required. The three commonly used breast lift incisions include:

• “Benelli” or “donut” lift – a circular incision around the areola only
• Vertical pattern incision – a complete circular incision around the areola and vertical incision straight down the breast, making a “lollipop” shape.
• Wide-pattern or “anchor” incision – includes the same incisions in the vertical lift but with an additional horizontal incision at the crease of the breast.

Because the vertical pattern incision is most suitable for women with a moderate degree of sagging, which is what the majority of patients experience, Dr. Schooler says it is the technique he most commonly employs. “In most people I do the vertical-type, short scar pattern incision,” he says. “It’s a somewhat newer technique, or a variation of a newer technique that I use on almost all my patients.”

As each patient’s breasts are unique, Dr. Schooler says it’s very important for the surgeon to match the technique based on the patient’s needs, as well as her goals and expectations – all of which are thoroughly reviewed during the consultation.

Contact Santa Barbara Plastic Surgery Center

If you would like to learn more about whether a breast lift may be the right option for you, or to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, please contact us today.