While most people were still dreaming about savory turkey and pie, we embarked on an exhilarating Thanksgiving morning adventure: a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the Temecula Wine Country. Gathering at the launch site at 5:45 a.m., we took off at first light, greeted by the uniquely golden skies caused by a temperature inversion, a beautifully clear day and stunning vineyard vistas.

The history of ballooning began in 1783, when the Montgolfier brothers launched the first untethered hot air balloon flight in France. Their success sparked global interest. Shortly after, in 1793, the first U.S. balloon flight occurred in Philadelphia, piloted by Jean-Pierre Blanchard, thrilling spectators decades before the Wright brothers achieved powered flight.

Today, hot air ballooning is a beloved recreational activity, with the United States hosting notable hubs like Napa Valley, Temecula, and Albuquerque—home to the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Ideal ballooning sites require calm weather, open spaces for safe landings, and scenic landscapes, all of which enhance the experience. We would encourage anyone wishing to give ballooning a try to contact Magical Adventures in Temecula.

Hot air balloons operate on a simple yet ingenious principle: a propane burner heats the air inside the balloon, making it lighter than the cooler air outside. We were surprised to learn that the temperatures inside the center of the balloon reach 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot adjusts altitude by controlling the burner’s flame. The safety record of ballooning is excellent, thanks to stringent FAA regulations and meticulous maintenance practices.

Upon returning to earth, our pilot and guide recited the traditional balloonists prayer with us: “The winds have welcomed you with softness, the sun has blessed you with his warm hands. You have flown so high and well that God has joined you in laughter, and set you gently back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.”

For US, this Thanksgiving was not just about gratitude but also marveling at human ingenuity and nature’s beauty—a perfect reminder of the uplifting experiences that await when you dare to rise above the ordinary.

Our balloon receiving some energy for liftoff.

Sister balloon floating beside us – a total of four balloons launched with us.

In the basket of the balloon at 1,200 feet above the ground.

Back on the ground after reciting the Balloonist’s Prayer – and being grateful for all of our blessings!

We have put in many thousands of breast implants over the past 40 years! When breast implants were first introduced in the 1970s, the prevailing belief was that they would last a lifetime. In retrospect, this assumption was overly optimistic. Implants are, in essence, thin-walled silicone shells filled with either saline or silicone gel. Over time, due to constant motion within the body, wear and tear are inevitable—much like tires on a vehicle eventually need replacing.

Why Do Implants Break?
Implants are subject to mechanical stress from the natural movements of the body. The outer shell can weaken over years of use, leading to small tears or ruptures. Other contributing factors include trauma, capsular contracture (when scar tissue tightens around the implant), calcification of the capsular pocket around the implant, or most infrequently, defects in the manufacturing process. While some implants may last decades, others may wear out sooner.

How Can You Tell If an Implant Breaks?
Detecting a rupture depends on the type of implant. Saline implants deflate visibly as the saline leaks and is harmlessly absorbed by the body. Silicone implants, however, can rupture silently, with no noticeable changes—this is often called a “silent rupture.” Over time, silicone may migrate, leading to lumps or changes in breast shape. Mammograms, MRI or ultrasound imaging is needed to confirm a silicone implant rupture.

When Should Implants Be Replaced?
The FDA recommends regular imaging, such as MRIs every 5-10 years for silicone implants, to monitor for silent ruptures. Many patients elect to replace implants every 10-15 years as a precaution, even if they appear intact. We recommend not leaving implants in place for longer than 15-20 years, even if they still are intact. Replacement may also be necessary for cosmetic reasons, such as addressing changes in breast shape due to aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy.

In summary, while breast implants are durable medical devices, they are not permanent. Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon ensure that your implants remain safe and your results continue to meet your expectations.

Patient of Dr. Ekstrom’s before and following augmentation with modest 405 cc Mentor Moderate Plus Profile implants.

Ruptured implant and severely calcified surrounding scar tissue, 40 years after insertion, removed by Dr. Juris Bunkis and replaced with fresh implants, with clear instructions to patient not to leave current implants in for more than 20 years without replacement.

We want you to feel as good as you look. We are currently offering free bioidentical hormone pelleting at the time of each facial rejuvenation patient – to allow patients to feel as good as they look after surgery!