Breast Implant Revision: Real Patients Share Experiences & Photos From Consult to Final Result

Thinking about updating your breast implants? Whether you’re dealing with a complication, want to change your size, or simply ready to upgrade to newer implant technology, Dr. Katerina Gallus at Restore SD Plastic Surgery in San Diego guides patients through successful breast implant revisions every week. Here’s what the complete journey looks like from consultation with Dr. Gallus to enjoying your beautiful, refined results.

Breast implant revision is one of the most complex areas in cosmetic plastic surgery, requiring both technical expertise and an artistic eye. 

Real Patient Story: Breast Implant Revision With Dr. Gallus in San Diego

Stories like this from real patients are why we do what we do! A recent patient shared her full revision breast augmentation experience in this heartfelt Google review:

“I don’t even know where to begin, I had been keeping the fact that I had been in pain and discomfort with one of my breast implants for a few years, from my husband. The thought of a third augmentation was terrifying to me. He immediately found the best breast plastic surgeon in California; Dr. Katerina Gallus, Restore SD Plastic Surgery!

From the moment I stepped into this all-female office, AND was seen at my appointment time!!  I was in awe of the attention to detail Dr. Katerina Gallus, and RN Isela gave me. Dr. Gallus is not full of herself, soft spoken, but confident, experienced talented perfectionist.

She did an AMAZING JOB!!

From my take-home package that included pre-surgery vitamins, Chapstick, lips get chapped when we go under, cough drops because your throat can become sore, and arnica for bruising, no male surgeon I have had, including in” La Jolla and Beverly Hills” has ever been so on top of every detail. the tiny details just blew my mind I’ve had eight surgeries in my life; half were elective body enhancing. So, I am speaking from experience.

The attention to detail that Dr. Gallus and her staff showed me, I can’t begin to say how amazed it was. Then after surgery because she had prepared me so well, I woke up I was in no pain I had no pain for 24 hours and I hadn’t taken anything but 2000 mg Tylenol morning of surgery I’ve taken 2 of the opiate pain pills in total, the Valium was the best for me, otherwise I would be cleaning the house. Best recovery medicine is rest and relaxation.

The generosity with the compression garments, mind blowing, some doctors have you purchase them. (TO BAD THEY MUST GO NAMELESS LOL) Not only did she supply them she gave extra!! And the foam pieces for EXTRA COMPRESSION on Lipo area; BRILLIANT! The speed at which I am recovering is astonishing, this Dr. needs to be a teaching her methods to all surgeons!! I have told all my female clients about Dr. Gallus and her staff!

I had been walking around feeling deformed since 2002, because a previous liposuction on my belly that was so deep it was like a Ditch running from hip to hip. And my breast augmentation from the same Dr. (Beverly Hills), mentioned to me after surgery that he made them bigger than we discussed!? WTF.

Dr. Gallus and I decided to go a little smaller, and she suggested a slight nipple raise.

I was little nervous of possible sensation loss, but already have full sensation.

They are the breasts I always wanted, the slight nipple raise makes 100% difference! I LOVE MY BREAST NOW; I am so happy I don’t feel like my stomach is deformed anymore. I’m 63 and I finally feel comfortable in my body. My body is perfect to me!!!

THANK YOU SO MUCH Dr. Gallus and your EXCEPTIONAL STAFF!

Huge shout out to nurse Isela, for her kindness and extensive time she spent with me! Ava, such a cutie immediate response to my calls, and emails. Beautiful Bri and her amazing hair, so sweet and attentive. And last but in no way least, the compassionate, reassuring, and charming Dr. Ibrahim anesthesiologist (a male pleasant surprise). You all made this experience Unforgettable!!

Sincerely, Stacie Davis

I almost forgot the most important part of this experience 5 to 6 weeks out of my surgery she’s doing laser on any scars to make them invisible that should have been at the very top of my review but this woman is amazing anyone is thinking about redoing or having your breast augmentation done this is the only woman to do it trust me!”

Wondering what your experience would look like? Read on to learn more about what you can expect during each phase of a breast implant revision with San Diego breast augmentation revision surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus. See statements and photos from real patients, each with their own unique concerns that were addressed by Dr. Gallus.

Before You Begin: Why Women Choose Breast Implant Revision

Dr. Gallus frequently sees women who need revision surgery for various reasons:

• Implant complications: Implant rupture, capsular contracture, malposition, or bottoming out
• Size changes: Want to go bigger, smaller, or just update to newer technology
• Aesthetic improvements: Correcting asymmetry, rippling, or refining previous results
• Lifestyle changes: Implants no longer match your activity level or personal preferences
• Implant age: Most implants have a 10-15 year lifespan and eventually need replacement

Capsular contracture occurred in this breast augmentation performed by another surgeon. Breast implants were removed and replaced by Dr. Gallus. Visit our gallery to view the uncensored images.

Podcast: Bigger or Smaller? The Real Reasons Women Get Breast Implant Revision

Some women want to size up, others decide it’s time to downsize. In this episode of All the B’s, our fun and unfiltered plastic surgery podcast, Dr. Gallus and Bri break down the real reasons women choose to swap their breast implants.

Phase 1: The Comprehensive Consultation Experience

What Makes a Revision Consultation Different

Your breast implant revision journey begins with an in-depth consultation. This will be more detailed than a typical first-time breast augmentation consult, as Dr. Gallus needs to understand your previous surgery and current concerns. We email detailed digital forms ahead of time so you can document your original surgery details, implant specifications, and any complications at home where you have access to your records.

During your visit, Dr. Gallus performs a thorough physical examination, carefully assessing your current implant position, capsule condition, and breast tissue quality. This detailed evaluation helps her understand exactly what’s happening with your current implants and what options will work best for your situation.

Our advanced Vectra 3D imaging system helps visualize potential outcomes and allows us to discuss various revision options, including size changes, pocket adjustments, and additional procedures. Unlike initial augmentation, revision often involves several potential approaches, so Dr. Gallus takes time to explain each option and helps you understand the benefits and considerations of different techniques to find the best solution for your specific needs.

Understanding Your Revision Options

During your consultation, Dr. Gallus will discuss various breast augmentation revision approaches based on your specific situation and desired outcomes:

• Simple Implant Exchange: Swapping old implants for new ones of different size, type, or technology
• Capsulectomy: Removing scar tissue capsule (partial, total, or en bloc) to address contracture or other issues
• Pocket Revision: Using acellular dermal matrix or mesh to modify implant positioning
• Combined Procedures: Adding breast lift, fat grafting, or other enhancements for optimal results

This 44-year old patient of Dr. Gallus is shown before and after a breast implant replacement procedure with a breast lift. The patient’s previous implants (350 cc) and capsules were removed and replaced with 250 cc implants in each breast. The patient also underwent a thigh lift procedure. Visit our gallery to view the uncensored images.

Phase 2: Pre-Surgery Planning

Revision surgery requires more detailed planning than initial augmentation due to the complexity of working with previously operated tissues. Key steps of pre-planning include: 

1. Medical clearance: Comprehensive health evaluation, especially important for revision cases
2. Imaging studies: Recent mammogram or MRI may be needed to assess current implant condition
3. Surgical planning: Dr. Gallus develops a detailed surgical plan based on your anatomy and goals
4. Recovery arrangements: Revision recovery can be longer than initial surgery, so plan accordingly

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

Many implant manufacturers offer warranty coverage for revision surgery due to complications like rupture or capsular contracture within 10 years of your original procedure. Some complications may qualify for insurance coverage if they’re deemed medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. Having proper documentation from your original surgery is crucial for warranty claims, which is why we help you gather all relevant records during your consultation process. You can, of course, ask us more questions about insurance and warranty options during your consultation, or give us a call at any time. 

Financing Your Breast Implant Revision

If you are unable to qualify for insurance or warranty coverage, we also offer flexible financing options through CareCredit and Alphaeon to make your revision procedure accessible with manageable monthly payments.

Phase 3: Surgery Day—Your Breast Implant Revision Procedure

Breast implant revision surgery is performed in our Quad A-accredited surgery center and typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on complexity.

What Happens During Revision Surgery

• Pre-operative preparation: Dr. Gallus reviews the surgical plan, marks incisions (often using previous incision sites), and addresses any final questions
• General anesthesia: You’ll be completely asleep throughout the procedure
• Tissue assessment: Dr. Gallus evaluates the implant pocket, capsule condition, and surrounding tissues
• Revision techniques: Depending on your plan, this may include:
  • Removing old implants and capsule tissue
  • Modifying the implant pocket with mesh or matrix materials
  • Placing new implants in optimal position
  • Performing breast lift or fat grafting if planned
• Closure and compression: Absorbable sutures and specialized compression garments support healing

Advanced Techniques for Complex Cases

For more complicated cases, Dr. Gallus can use several advanced techniques to achieve optimal revision results. These will be discussed ahead of time with you during your consultation.

Internal mesh is Dr. Gallus’s preferred method for reinforcing and reshaping implant pockets during revision surgery. She uses specialized products like GalaFlex, TigrMatrix, or DuraSorb—materials made from absorbable sutures that provide structural support for 12-24 months before gradually incorporating into your own tissue.

This mesh is particularly effective for correcting complications like bottoming out (where implants have dropped too low) or malposition, as it creates an internal support system that holds implants in their proper position while your body heals. Unlike permanent materials, this temporary scaffolding eventually becomes part of your natural tissue, offering long-term stability without the concerns associated with foreign objects remaining in your body.

This patient elected to remove and replace her failing right breast implant using mesh. Visit our gallery to view the uncensored images.

Fat grafting involves using your own fat to address volume asymmetries, soften implant edges, and prevent rippling for more natural-looking results. For patients who don’t have sufficient fat for traditional grafting or want to address minor rippling without surgery, Dr. Gallus also offers AlloClae™: a non-surgical fat transfer alternative using purified donor fat cells that doesn’t require liposuction.

For the most complex cases, Dr. Gallus may recommend a staged approach where multiple procedures are spaced 4-6 months apart to ensure optimal safety and the best possible outcomes.

This 44-year-old patient came to Dr. Gallus hoping to correct significant nipple asymmetry after an initial breast augmentation, as well as a scar capsule on the side. Both implants were removed and replaced. Visit our gallery to view the uncensored images. 

Phase 4: Recovery After Breast Implant Revision: What to Expect

Recovery after a breast implant revision will vary for each individual, but here is a general timeline of what you can expect to happen following your procedure: 

Initial Recovery (Days 1-10)

Revision recovery is often longer and more involved than initial augmentation due to the complexity of the procedure. In the first week, you can expect more discomfort than initial surgery, which is completely normal—prescribed pain medication assists your comfort throughout this phase. 

Days 3-5 typically bring gradual improvement in comfort levels, and gentle movement is encouraged to promote healing. Your first post-operative appointment occurs around days 5-7, where Dr. Gallus assesses your early healing progress.

During weeks 1-2, you’ll experience gradual return to light activities, with most patients able to return to desk work after 1-2 weeks. Revision-specific recovery challenges include increased swelling due to more extensive tissue manipulation, potential temporary drains for complex procedures to prevent fluid accumulation, and longer activity restrictions on lifting and exercise due to the procedure’s complexity.

Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 2-6)

The second phase of recovery focuses on tissue healing and gradual activity resumption. By weeks 2-3, most patients can return to office jobs and receive driving clearance once they’re comfortable and off pain medication. Light exercise like walking and gentle stretching is encouraged during this time.

Weeks 4-6 bring significant progress with gradual return to more normal daily activities and notable improvement in swelling and shape definition. However, restrictions on lifting over 10 lbs or performing chest exercises remain in place. It’s important to manage expectations during this healing phase, as revision results take longer to fully appreciate than initial augmentation due to previously operated tissues healing more slowly, swelling that can take 4-6 weeks to significantly subside, and the need for new and revised scars to mature properly.

Final Results Achieved (Months 1-6)

Month 1 marks the transition to early visible results as compression garments are discontinued, most swelling has resolved, and patients can return to full activities including exercise. The initial results become clearly apparent during this time.

Months 2-3 continue the refinement process as implants settle into their final position, incision lines fade and soften through scar maturation, and full sensation typically returns gradually. Dr. Gallus conducts final assessments during this period to evaluate results and address any concerns.

By months 4-6, final results are achieved with optimal outcomes established in terms of shape, position, and feel. Incisions have faded to thin, pale lines, and most patients report high satisfaction with their revision results. This is also when Dr. Gallus discusses long-term planning for future implant maintenance and care.

Phase 5: Long-Term Success and Maintenance

Research shows that properly performed breast implant revision surgery achieves excellent long-term results. Most patients report high satisfaction with their decision to undergo revision, experiencing improved comfort through the resolution of previous complications or concerns. The enhanced aesthetics—including better size, shape, and overall appearance—give patients renewed confidence in their bodies. Perhaps most importantly, patients gain peace of mind knowing they have updated implants placed using the latest surgical techniques.

Advanced Scar Management

Where possible, your revision or removal will be performed using the same incision locations used in your original procedure. Dr. Gallus and our all-star team provide comprehensive scar care to ensure optimal healing, including specialized scar gel and detailed instructions for its use. 

Sun protection is critical during the healing process (especially if you’re trying to rock a bikini in the weeks or months following your procedure!), as UV exposure can cause scars to darken and become more noticeable. We teach specific massage care designed to promote soft, flat scars that blend seamlessly with your natural skin. For patients who want to further minimize scar appearance, we offer optional fractionated laser treatments—the same advanced laser technology used in our medical spa for facial rejuvenation.

Why Choose Restore SD Plastic Surgery for Your Revision Journey?

Dr. Katerina Gallus: San Diego Breast Implant Revision Expert

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus brings unique qualifications to complex revision cases:

• Extensive training: Board-certified plastic surgeon with military surgical background
• Revision expertise: Specializes in correcting complications and achieving optimal results
• Advanced techniques: Uses latest materials and methods for superior outcomes
• Patient partnership: Takes time to understand your specific concerns and goals

Our Comprehensive Revision Approach

1. Detailed evaluation: Thorough assessment of your current situation and goals
2. Multiple options: Various surgical approaches explained clearly
3. Advanced facility: Quad A-accredited surgery center with state-of-the-art equipment
4. Ongoing support: Comprehensive follow-up care throughout your healing journey

This 40-year-old patient had a history of 4 prior breast surgeries that resulted in grade 3 capsular contracture. The left implant was removed and replaced. The scar capsule was removed and Strattice was placed in the lower pole. Visit our gallery to view the uncensored images.

Achieve the breasts you always wanted

At Restore SD Plastic Surgery in San Diego, Dr. Gallus and our all-female team are committed to helping you achieve the beautiful, comfortable results you deserve.

Whether you’re addressing a complication or simply ready for an upgrade, Dr. Gallus is here to guide you through every step of your revision journey with skill, compassion, and uncompromising attention to your safety and satisfaction.

Call us or contact us online to schedule your revision consultation with Dr. Gallus today.