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Breast revision surgery is a deeply personal decision, often made when results from a previous breast surgery no longer feel aligned with your goals, body, or comfort.
Whether you're dealing with implant rupture, capsular contracture, or simply a desire to change your implant size or type, a carefully planned revision surgery can restore both confidence and symmetry. At Schoemann Plastic Surgery in San Diego, Dr. Mark Schoemann, a board-certified plastic surgeon, brings extensive experience in both primary breast augmentation and complex breast implant revision procedures. With fellowship training and a background in reconstructive plastic surgery, Dr. Schoemann is uniquely qualified to correct complications, refine breast shape, or perform complete breast implant removal when needed—all with an emphasis on safety, artistry, and long-term satisfaction.
Addresses issues from primary surgery like asymmetry, discomfort, or aesthetic concerns
May include breast implant exchange, breast lift, fat grafting, or acellular dermal matrix support
Typically performed under general anesthesia in our AAAASF-accredited surgery center
Some cases heal in one to two weeks; more complex revision breast surgeries may take longer
Enhances your breasts' appearance, corrects implant issues, and restores a balanced look tailored to your goals
Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the U.S., and for many patients, it delivers results that are both beautiful and natural-looking.
Still, there are times when the outcome doesn’t align with a patient’s evolving goals or physical comfort, prompting the need for breast revision surgery. This doesn’t always mean something went wrong during the original procedure—revision surgery can be requested for a variety of reasons. Some individuals may wish to change their implant size or type, while others may experience complications that require correction or simply decide to remove their implants altogether. In certain cases, revision is also recommended to address specific medical concerns or changes in the breast tissue over time.
San Diego-area plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Schoemann provides thorough consultations for a customized breast revision surgery at Schoemann Plastic Surgery so that each patient’s desired outcome is achieved. His holistic approach to plastic surgery will help you have the ideal breast size through this treatment plan.
Breast revision surgery is most often performed to remove or replace implants that are no longer desired or are causing an issue. For some patients, it’s about adjusting the implant size or switching from silicone to saline or vice versa. In other cases, the need for revision arises from changes in the body, complications from the initial breast surgery, or cosmetic preferences that have evolved over time. Below are some of the most frequent reasons patients seek revision procedures.
Sometimes, a patient’s aesthetic preferences shift after their initial breast augmentation. You may find the implants you once chose no longer feel like the right fit—whether too small or too large. Revision surgery allows for an implant size adjustment that better matches your proportions or your updated goals.
Though uncommon, implant rupture can occur. Saline implant ruptures are typically easy to identify due to the quick deflation and visible change in breast shape. Silicone implant ruptures, on the other hand, are often silent and may only be detected through imaging such as MRI. In both situations, revision surgery is needed to replace or remove the damaged implant.
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around a breast implant tightens or thickens, creating firmness or distortion. While some degree of internal scarring is normal, contracture can cause pain, shifting of the implant, or an unnatural breast appearance. Revision surgery is often used to remove the thickened scar tissue and improve both the feel and aesthetics of the breasts.
Visible imbalance between the breasts—whether in size, shape, or position—can result from an implant issue or asymmetry in the natural breast tissue. Correcting asymmetry with revision surgery involves identifying the underlying cause, adjusting the placement or type of implant, and restoring a more balanced and harmonious breast appearance.
When an implant descends below the breast fold or appears to sit too low on the chest, it’s referred to as bottoming out. This may stem from improper implant placement or weakened breast tissue support. Revision typically involves reinforcing the area—sometimes with internal sutures or tissue grafts—and repositioning the implant for better lift and contour.
Symmastia occurs when breast implants migrate too close together, creating the appearance of one continuous breast or loss of cleavage. It’s usually the result of selecting implants that were too large or wide for your frame. During revision surgery, the implants are repositioned, using a size and shape more suited to your frame, and separation is restored between the breasts.
Rippling refers to visible folds or waves in the implants' surface, which are often noticeable near the sides or bottom of the breast. Rippling tends to occur more frequently in women with thin breast tissue or those who have saline breast implants. Revision options may include switching to silicone implants or repositioning the implant to better conceal any irregularities.
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During breast revision surgery, the specific steps vary based on the reason for the revision and your personalized surgical plan. After you’re placed under general anesthesia, Dr. Schoemann begins by accessing the existing breast implants, typically through the original incision sites when possible to minimize additional scarring.
From there, the implants may be removed, replaced, or repositioned depending on your goals. If you’re switching implant types or sizes, adjustments may be made to the breast implant pocket to support the new shape and placement.
In cases involving complications like capsular contracture, hardened scar tissue is carefully excised to relieve tension and restore a more natural feel. If breast asymmetry, bottoming out, or rippling is present, the procedure may also involve internal sutures, reinforcement with an acellular dermal matrix, or a complete re-creation of the implant pocket. Some patients also undergo a breast lift at the same time to improve contours, especially if they are downsizing their implants or removing them altogether. Dr. Schoemann’s approach is highly individualized, with an emphasis on restoring breast balance, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.
"Simply the Best in the San Diego Area – La Jolla, CA – The entire staff at Schoemann Plastic Surgery is caring and kind. Dr. Schoemann is amazing and really listens to your concerns and what your goals are with your surgery. I have had to call numerous times after hours and always got a call back within 15 minutes from Dr. Schoemann."
– Happy Patient
A well-executed breast implant revision can resolve medical issues, improve breast shape, and restore confidence. Key benefits include:
Whatever your reason for seeking breast implant revision surgery, the goal is always the same: restore your comfort and ensure your results truly reflect you.
You may be a candidate for breast revision surgery if you’ve previously undergone breast augmentation and are now experiencing complications, discomfort, or dissatisfaction with your results.
Common concerns include implant rupture, capsular contracture, visible rippling, breast asymmetry, or a change in personal aesthetic preferences such as wanting a different implant size or type—or removing the implants altogether. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of revision surgery. A consultation with Dr. Schoemann will help determine the best course of treatment based on your goals, anatomy, and the condition of your existing implants.
Recovery time after breast revision surgery depends on the complexity of your procedure. Simple implant exchanges or size adjustments often allow patients to return to light activity within one to two weeks, while more advanced techniques like acellular dermal matrix support or scar tissue removal may extend healing time.
Dr. Schoemann will provide you with a detailed personalized plan, including incision care, application of ice packs to reduce swelling, and when to resume physical activity. Wearing your surgical bra, attending follow-ups, and avoiding strain in the early weeks of recovery are essential to achieving optimal results.
Most revision breast patients notice visible improvements within 6–8 weeks, with final results continuing to refine over the next few months.
Your outcome depends on the complexity of your revision surgery, your body's healing response, and your implant choices. With Dr. Schoemann’s expertise and careful surgical planning, you can expect long-lasting improvements to your breast shape, symmetry, and overall breast appearance—often with greater comfort than your initial surgery.
Breast implant revision surgery is a custom treatment tailored to your individual needs by Dr. Schoemann.
If you were left with unsatisfactory results from your initial surgery, have experienced complications, or simply wish for a different look, we welcome you to contact our Encinitas, CA, office to book your appointment at Schoemann Plastic Surgery. There are many factors to consider, and Dr. Schoemann will provide you with a full physical examination, create your revision recommendations, and help set realistic goals and expectations. As a plastic surgeon with a holistic approach, Dr. Schoemann takes great care to produce the right result for you.
Contact Schoemann Plastic Surgery in Encinitas to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schoemann today at (760) 487-2520 or by filling out our online form.
Breast implant revision cost depends on the complexity of your case, whether you are undergoing a simple implant exchange or more advanced reconstruction. During your initial consultation, you’ll receive a full, customized quote.
Not at all. While some patients have medical concerns like capsular contracture, many seek revision surgery to change implant size, switch from saline to silicone implants, or improve long-term breast augmentation results.
Yes. Breast implant removal is common and can be performed alone or with a breast lift to reshape the breast tissue and address any loose skin left behind.
Depending on your skin quality and the implant size being removed or replaced, a breast lift may be recommended to improve breast shape and support new implants or no implants at all.
