Breast Revision in Charleston, SC

Restore confidence after prior breast surgery with breast revision in Charleston, SC. Whether you have had breast augmentation, breast augmentation with a lift, or breast reconstruction, Dr. Jason Ulm can assist you in improving or correcting prior breast surgeries.

Refine Results From Past Breast Surgery

Breast revision is surgery performed to correct, improve, or refine the results of a previous breast procedure. You may consider breast revision in Charleston, SC, if your implants have shifted, hardened, ruptured, or no longer reflect the size, shape, or feel you wanted. Revision surgery can also address rippling, asymmetry, discomfort, or changes that occur over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, or healing. Because every prior surgery creates unique anatomy, breast revision requires techniques tailored specifically to your situation and goals.

Breast Revision Overview

What Does Breast Revision Treat?

Breast revision in Charleston, SC, can address a wide range of aesthetic and functional concerns that develop after a breast procedure. Common issues that may be corrected include:

Implant malposition (too high, too low, or off-center)
Capsular contracture causing firmness or distortion
Implant rupture or deflation
Visible rippling, wrinkling, or implant edges
Asymmetry between the breasts
Size dissatisfaction (desire for larger or smaller implants)
Unnatural movement with activity
Sagging or loss of breast shape over time
Discomfort, tightness, or chronic breast pain
Poor or widened surgical scarring

Why Choose Dr. Jason Ulm for Breast Revision?

Dr. Jason Ulm is a double board-certified general and plastic surgeon with fellowship training in aesthetic and craniofacial surgery at Harvard/Massachusetts General Hospital. This background is especially important for breast revision in Charleston, SC, where prior surgery has altered anatomy and scar tissue must be managed carefully.

Dr. Ulm routinely handles complex secondary and tertiary cases, including implant malposition, capsular contracture, and reconstruction revision, and has a track record of ensuring natural outcomes.

You can expect an unrushed consultation focused on listening. Dr. Ulm takes the time to understand what you originally wanted, why your results fell short, and what can realistically be achieved. Patients consistently report that their outcomes match what they specifically asked for, guided by clear communication and honest recommendations.

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Correct the Results of Your Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction revision may be recommended when an implant-based reconstruction no longer feels comfortable, looks natural, or functions the way it should. Dr. Ulm is trained and highly experienced in the latest techniques of breast reconstruction. He routinely performs pre-pectoral breast reconstruction, in which the implant is placed on top of the chest muscle. This allows you to have a more natural and comfortable implant reconstruction.

If you have had implant-based reconstruction prior to 2017, there is a high likelihood that it was done by placing the implant partially or completely under the muscle. This can lead to unnatural movement with activity (animation deformity), persistent pain or tightness in your breast or chest, and even implant position problems. After consultation with Dr. Ulm, he may offer a breast reconstruction revision, where some of the techniques below will be used.

Pre-Pectoral Conversion

The submuscular implant is removed, the muscle is restored to its natural anatomic position, and a new implant is repositioned in a pocket on top of the muscle. This conversion reduces animation deformity, improves comfort, and creates a more natural look and feel by placing the implant in a more anatomically appropriate plane.

Lipofilling (Fat Grafting)

Fat is obtained via liposuction from desired donor areas such as the belly, thighs, or love handles and is then placed with small cannulas in specific areas of the breast. This improves the contour and softness of the breast, giving a more natural look and feel. Fat grafting can also increase the size of the breast (subtly) without altering the implant or pocket.

Breast Revision Before & After

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Am I a Candidate for Breast Revision?

You may be a candidate for breast revision in Charleston, SC, if you are unhappy with the results of a prior breast surgery or are experiencing changes in comfort, appearance, or implant performance. Dr. Ulm determines candidacy through a consultation, physical examination, and review of your surgical history to understand your anatomy, concerns, and goals. Prior to consulting with Dr. Ulm, things to consider would be:

Have your breasts and/or nipples changed in shape or position?
Are you experiencing pain or discomfort with your breasts or implants?
Do you wish you had gone bigger or smaller with your implants?
Do you see ripples or folds of your implants through the skin?
Do your breasts move unnaturally with activity?
Are you concerned about a rupture?
Have your breasts changed in softness or become firm?
Are you unhappy with the shape, size, or feel of your breasts?

Benefits of Breast Revision

Breast revision in Charleston, SC, offers both aesthetic and functional improvements when prior breast surgery results no longer feel right. Potential advantages include:

Improved breast shape, symmetry, and proportion
Correction of implant position problems
Relief from tightness, discomfort, or chronic pain
Softer, more natural breast feel
Replacement or removal of damaged implants
Adjustment of implant size or type
Reduction of visible rippling or wrinkling
Improved scar appearance
Restoration of confidence in your appearance

Your Complete Breast Revision Experience

Breast Revision Surgery

Your breast revision session is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. Once you are asleep, Dr. Ulm typically uses your existing incision to access the implant pocket and minimize new scarring. The implant is carefully evaluated for integrity and position. If a replacement is planned, the old implant is removed, and a new implant is selected according to your preoperative plan. Thickened scar tissue (capsule) is released or partially removed to relieve tightness and allow the breast to soften and reshape.

Next, the implant pocket is precisely adjusted by tightening, releasing, or reinforcing specific areas to center the implant. If a breast lift is included, excess skin is removed, and the nipple is repositioned to a youthful location. When fat grafting is part of your plan, fat is gently harvested with liposuction, purified, and placed in small amounts to improve contour. Incisions are closed in multiple layers, and a supportive surgical bra is applied before recovery begins.

Breast Revision Consultation

During your breast revision consultation, you meet directly with Dr. Ulm for an unrushed, in-depth discussion of your concerns, prior surgeries, and goals. You and your surgeon will review your implant type, placement, and any available operative records. Dr. Ulm performs a physical examination to assess breast tissue quality, implant position, laxity, and chest anatomy. You receive clear explanations of what is causing your current issues, which options can realistically address them, and how each approach would be performed.

Breast Revision Recovery

You can expect swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness during the first days after surgery. Most discomfort is manageable with prescribed medication and gradually improves over the first week. You typically return to light daily activities within 7 to 10 days. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and chest-focused movements are restricted for about 3 to 4 weeks. You must wear a supportive surgical bra as directed and attend follow-ups so healing can be monitored.

Breast Revision Results

You may begin to notice early changes once swelling starts to subside, usually within the first few weeks. As healing progresses, implant position settles, breast tissue relaxes, and contours become more defined. While you may see meaningful improvement within 6 to 8 weeks, your final outcome continues to refine over several months. Although aging and gravity will continue to affect the breasts, a well-executed revision can provide durable, long-lasting correction.

Possible Alternatives to Breast Revision

Not every concern after prior breast surgery requires formal breast revision. In some situations, your goals may be better addressed with a different procedure that targets the underlying issue more directly. The most appropriate option depends on whether your concern relates to skin laxity, breast position, volume changes, or overall body proportions.

During your consultation, Dr. Ulm explains which approach best aligns with your anatomy and priorities. Depending on your needs, possible alternatives may include:

Breast lift for correcting sagging and nipple position without changing implants
Implant exchange for adjusting size, shape, or material without full reconstruction
Implant removal for eliminating breast implants altogether
Fat grafting for modest volume enhancement and improved contour without implants

Words from Our Clients "It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm."

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the tim...

Melanie

5 star rating

It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm. He is kind, compassionate, and incredibly talented. His super power is his unique ability to listen to your concerns and desir...

Tabatha

5 star rating

I had lip fillers done by the doctor Jason Ulm and I loved the results! The shape is beautiful and natural, not fake or stiff at all. The doctor was very gentle and gave great advice. After the pro...

Buddhawajana

5 star rating

Dr Ulm took the time listen and provide guidance on what to expect during and after surgery. He was recommended to me by a friend and I am so thankful to him for changing my life for the better! He...

Denise

5 star rating

My experience with Dr. Ulm and his staff was outstanding. Their communication was clear and supportive throughout the entire process, and the results exceeded my expectations. Truly professional, c...

Gina

5 star rating

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gon...

Hailey

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What Is the Cost of Breast Revision?

Cost depends on a multitude of factors, including the complexity of your case, anesthesia, facility fees, implants, and location. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the national average for breast implant revision surgery in the United States is roughly $8,600, with typical ranges from about $3,500 to $15,500 or more, depending on your needs.

This range is only an estimate. More complex revisions, combinations with lifts, scar work, or fat grafting will affect the total cost of the procedure.

For a precise estimate tailored to your anatomy and goals, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ulm today.

Breast Revision Frequently Asked Questions

How soon can you have a breast revision after your original surgery?

In most cases, you should wait at least six months after your initial procedure before undergoing breast revision in Charleston, SC. This allows swelling to resolve and tissues to soften, giving Dr. Ulm a clearer understanding of your true anatomy. There are exceptions, such as confirmed implant rupture or severe complications, where earlier intervention may be appropriate.

Do breast implants need to be replaced after a certain number of years?

There is no fixed expiration date for modern breast implants. Some patients keep the same implants for many years without any issues, while others may need revision sooner due to changes in the breast, implant integrity, or personal preferences.

What happens if a silicone implant ruptures?

Most silicone implant ruptures are considered “silent,” meaning you usually do not feel sudden pain or see dramatic changes in breast shape right away. This is because modern silicone implants are filled with cohesive gel that tends to retain its shape rather than leaking freely. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, are used to confirm rupture. If a rupture is identified, surgical removal and replacement of the implant is recommended.

What happens if a saline implant ruptures?

When a saline implant ruptures, the saline leaks out and the breast visibly deflates. The saline is safely absorbed by your body, but the empty implant shell still needs to be removed or replaced.

What are the risks of breast revision surgery?

All surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, implant-related complications, and anesthesia-related concerns. Revision surgery can be more complex because of scar tissue and altered anatomy, which is why advanced training and expertise matter. Dr. Ulm reviews risks transparently during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Breast Revision in Charleston, SC

Refine Results From Past Breast Surgery

Breast Revision Overview

What Does Breast Revision Treat?

Why Choose Dr. Jason Ulm for Breast Revision?

Schedule A Consultation