How long do breast implants last?
Having breast aesthetics has positive effects not only on your physical appearance but also on your self-confidence. However, this breast implant aesthetic does not offer a permanent solution. Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime; they may need to be replaced over time.
Generally, breast implants are replaced 10 to 20 years after the first breast surgery. During this time, changes in the body structure, personal preferences or technical reasons related to the implant may lead to the need for replacement.
Before the operation, your plastic surgeon will share with you in detail what you should pay attention to and the possible risks for the longevity of the implants. This information process both ensures that the implants remain healthy and prevents unexpected situations.
As a result, although breast implants offer aesthetic and psychological benefits, it is important to know that they have a certain lifespan and to take the necessary steps when the time comes.
What is the average lifespan of a breast implant?
The average lifespan of breast implants can vary from approximately 10 to 15 years. However, this period may vary depending on factors such as the person’s lifestyle, body structure, and how much attention they pay to implant care. Some patients can use breast implants for up to 20 years without any problems, while in some cases an earlier replacement may be required.
With each passing year, the risk of damage to breast implants increases; in particular, problems such as rupture or deformity are more common as the age of the implant increases.
In short, breast implants can provide long-term satisfaction for 10 to 15 years but should not be expected to last forever. With conscious use and routine follow-up, it is possible for your implants to function healthily for many years.
Why are breast implants removed or replaced?
Breast implants may need to be replaced or removed over time. There are several conditions that may necessitate implant removal or replacement.
Breast hardening
This occurs when the scar tissue (capsular contracture) around one or both implants hardens excessively. Consequently, this can cause breast tightness, pain, tenderness, and deformities in the breast shape, necessitating intervention.
Saline implant rupture
Saline implants can rupture over time. This rupture causes water to rapidly leak from the implant. The saltwater leaking from the implant is absorbed by the body. This risk generally increases as the implant ages. This type of rupture causes the implant to deflate like a balloon. Irregularities in size and shape can occur in the affected breasts. While breast implant ruptures are rare in the early years, the risk increases over time.
Silicone implant rupture
Ruptures in silicone implants can often go unnoticed because the silicone gel typically spreads slowly. However, the silicone gel is not absorbed by the body. Symptoms of a ruptured silicone implant include changes in breast shape and size, pain, firmness, and swelling that increases over weeks.
Waving
Over time, the implants can develop ripples or wrinkles. You can feel this by palpating your breasts, or in extreme cases, it can become visible through the skin. These conditions can cause aesthetic concerns and may require replacement.
Breast position changes
Breast implants can change the appearance of your breasts, but they cannot stop the aging process. Breast implants don’t prevent your breasts from sagging as you age. Gravity will continue to have an effect over time, and your breasts may sag. To address this, you can have a breast lift or implant replacement to restore your breasts to their former appearance.
Personal preferences
Some women may want to replace their implants due to aesthetic changes. This may mean replacing them with a different size implant or removing them entirely.
Ultimately, the circumstances in which breast implants may need to be removed or replaced vary depending on physical and aesthetic reasons. Regular consultations with your doctor when deciding on these changes will help you find the best solution.
What to expect from breast implant removal?
Breast implant removal is a procedure performed for aesthetic or health reasons. This procedure should be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. The surgeon who performed the initial implant surgery is not necessarily required for implant removal, but choosing a surgeon is important for the proper management of the procedure.
During your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your current implants and discuss your options. Implant removal can be performed in several different ways:
- Implant removal only
- Implant removal and breast lift
- Removal of hardened or abnormal tissue
- Implant replacement and breast lift
Implant removal can sometimes present aesthetic problems. These may include breast deflating, sagging, dimpling, or asymmetry. In these cases, your surgeon may recommend replacing the implant with a new one.
The recovery period following the surgery varies from person to person. Most patients can return home after the procedure. The return to work period is usually approximately three to five days. However, recovery time for strenuous exercise and strenuous physical activity can be as long as six weeks.
Following your doctor’s post-operative instructions closely will help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of infection.
Are there any health risks if I do not replace the old breast implant?
The lifespan and condition of breast implants can change over time. The longer the implants remain in place, the greater the risk of wear and complications. In addition, implants that wear out over time can lead to health problems such as rupture or hardening. Experts generally recommend replacing implants between 10 and 15 years.
How do I know when my breast implants need to be replaced?
Although breast implants are designed for long-term use, they may need to be replaced over time for various reasons. Regular screenings are important to maintain implant health and detect potential problems early.
The most common ways to have your implants checked include an MRI scan and an ultrasound. These tests assess the implants’ internal integrity and help detect any ruptures, deformities, or other complications.
Regular screenings give you a clear idea of when your breast implants need to be replaced and can help prevent potential health problems early.
How can I increase the lifespan of breast implants?
Proper care is crucial for the longevity of breast implants. Extending the life of your implants starts with the healing process. Wearing supportive clothing recommended by your doctor after surgery is one of the first steps of proper care. This allows the breast tissue to settle properly and prevents problems such as sagging.
A basic understanding of implant follow-up is also very important for breast implant use. If you have silicone implants, it is important to have regular check-ups and visit your doctor once a year. In addition, the FDA and AFP recommend that you have an MRI or ultrasound scan within 5-6 years after surgery and every 2-3 years thereafter. Such checks help keep your implant healthy and allow intervention before any problems occur.
Conclusion
Implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. Breast implants usually last between 10 and 20 years. During this time, although the condition of the implants is usually good, regular check-ups are recommended, taking into account the changes and risks over time. Even if you think there are no problems after a few years, it is worthwhile to have the health of your implants checked with tests such as MRI and ultrasound scans.
The best way to ensure the longevity of breast implants is to be examined by a trusted board-certified plastic surgeon and follow all postoperative instructions. These checks can help you extend the life of your implants and detect possible complications early.
Whether you’re considering breast implants for the first time, or considering implant replacement or removal, Maya Medical offers a personalized treatment plan to achieve the best results for you. Contact Maya Medical for an informative initial consultation.
