How Long Do Different Breast Implants Last
Breast augmentation is a major decision and comes with a variety of choices. Patients might choose either to get implants or simply receive a breast lift (mastopexy). In the case of implants, it is extremely important to work with board-certified plastic surgeons, who can discuss your options in detail. Breast implants do not last a lifetime. Breast implants typically last from 10-20 years, and many women either have them replaced or removed later in life. During a consultation with a plastic surgeon, they will go over different breast implant options, as well as other surgical treatment options. In this quick guide, we will discuss what impacts how long breast implants last, when/why women have their breast implants removed, and how proper care can prolong the lifespan of a breast implant.
What Impacts the Lifespan of Breast Implants
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that breast implants are not lifetime devices, which is an important disclaimer that every patient should be aware of when considering breast augmentation surgery. Breast implants have a risk of rupturing. Breast implants are designed to last for more than 10 years, and many women have their implants for longer than twenty years. The longevity of a breast implant can vary based on the type of implant you get, your own body, and how you take care of your implants. For example, the FDA recommends that women with silicone breast implants get an MRI 5-6 years after their original surgery, and every 2-3 years after that. Your plastic surgeon will also likely recommend follow-up appointments.
Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal can have many different catalysts. One common problem is breast hardening or capsular contracture. This occurs when scar tissue starts to harden, which causes tenderness and tightness in the breast. Another reason women have their implants removed is changes in the shape/position of their breasts. While breast implants can alter your appearance, they can also sag over time and with age. This is often a common reason for breast implant removal with a breast lift. If a breast implant ruptures, they will need to be removed. If a saline breast implant ruptures, the saline will leak out and cause the implant to change size and ship quite quickly. By contrast, if a silicone implant ruptures it is more difficult to notice because of the silicone gel used. But a silicone rupture can cause uneven appearance or changes in breast sensation. And of course, in some cases, women choose to have their breast implants removed purely because they want to.
Breast Implant Removal/Replacement Options
If and when a patient needs to have their implants removed, they have a variety of options. Some patients have their breast implants replaced with different implants, which can include changing the size of the breast implants. Other patients have the implants removed but also receive a breast lift. In either case, your plastic surgeon will discuss each of your options with you and help you choose the right one. Here on Cape Cod, doctors Michael Loffredo and Seth Jones have helped hundreds of patients with their breast augmentation goals. IF you would like to schedule a consultation with either of our surgeons, please contact our team.
