Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime, and many women eventually choose to exchange older implants for newer technology. Whether you are addressing a rupture, capsular contracture, a change in your aesthetic goals, or simply the age of your current devices, exchanging to Motiva® implants gives New York City patients an opportunity to upgrade to one of the most advanced implant systems available. Motiva is FDA-approved for revision augmentation, making it a well-suited choice for many implant exchange procedures.
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, MD, FACS, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons who completed his fellowship at the New York University Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery under the renowned Dr. David T.W. Chiu. He is frequently asked by patients and fellow surgeons alike to perform complex, sometimes secondary breast surgery — work that demands a higher level of technical judgment than primary augmentation and that he approaches with meticulous care.
What Is Motiva® Implant Exchange Surgery?

Implant exchange — a form of revision breast surgery — involves removing your existing implants and replacing them with new ones. When exchanging to Motiva, Dr. Zuckerman can often refine the result at the same time, addressing the position, size, or shape of the breasts in addition to updating the implant technology.
- Updated Implant Technology: Motiva’s SmoothSilk® surface and adaptive Ergonomix® gel offer a modern alternative to older implant designs.
- Capsule Management: When needed, Dr. Zuckerman addresses the surrounding scar capsule, including in cases of capsular contracture.
- Refinement Opportunity: Exchange surgery can also adjust size, correct asymmetry, or improve implant position.
- Optional Combined Lift: For breasts that have changed with time, a breast lift may be combined with the exchange.
Common Reasons Patients Choose Implant Exchange
Patients pursue implant exchange for a range of reasons. Some are managing a known implant rupture or hardening from capsular contracture. Others have lived with their implants for many years and want updated technology, a different size, or a more natural feel. Some are responding to concerns about breast implant illness and wish to discuss their options. Whatever the reason, Dr. Zuckerman begins with a careful evaluation and an honest discussion of what exchange surgery can and cannot achieve.
“Secondary breast surgery is more nuanced than a first augmentation. The reward is that exchange often lets us not only update the implant, but improve on the original result.”
— Dr. Zuckerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Motiva Implant Exchange
Yes. The FDA approved Motiva implants for both primary and revision augmentation in 2024, which includes exchanging existing implants. Learn more on the implant removal and exchange guide.
Implants are not considered lifetime devices, but there is no fixed replacement date. Exchange is typically driven by rupture, capsular contracture, or a change in your goals.
Often, yes. Implant exchange is a good opportunity to adjust size, though the degree of change depends on your tissue and existing implant pocket.
In many cases Dr. Zuckerman can work through existing incisions, which helps avoid additional scarring. He will confirm this during your evaluation.
Yes. If your breasts have lost firmness or position over time, a breast lift can be performed at the same time as your exchange.
Why Choose Dr. Zuckerman for Implant Exchange in NYC
- Revision Surgery Experience: Dr. Zuckerman is regularly referred complex secondary breast cases by patients and surgeons alike.
- Elite Fellowship Training: His reconstructive fellowship at NYU under Dr. David T.W. Chiu informs his approach to nuanced exchange surgery.
- Hospital Privileges: He holds staff appointments at leading Manhattan hospitals, supporting the highest standard of surgical care.
- Refined, Natural Results: Exchange offers the chance to improve on the original outcome, a goal central to his practice.
Schedule Your Implant Exchange Consultation in New York City
If you are considering exchanging your current implants for Motiva, Dr. Zuckerman can evaluate your situation and recommend a personalized plan. To schedule your consultation at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, contact the office or call (212) 231-9897 today.
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