How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Having breast implants can make you feel like Cinderella at the ball. With fuller, perkier breasts, our patients tell us they feel more beautiful and more confident, even transformed. However, the similarities between this classic fairy tale and your implants end there. When the clock strikes midnight, your implants won’t turn into pumpkins. Though implants do occasionally need replacement, they don’t have a set expiration date.
How long do breast implants last? Here’s what you need to know.
Breast Implant Exchange Surgery: What Happens During the Procedure?
A breast implant exchange can be a straightforward procedure where a surgeon simply removes an old breast implant and puts a new one in its place. There are times though when the exchange is more complex as it may also require removal of the old implant’s surrounding scar tissue (often called the capsule). Dr. Epstein will usually open the breast using the same incisions as your initial breast augmentation for a simple removal or exchange but he may need to use an extended inframammary incision for more involved procedures. Most patients find that recovery is like their initial breast augmentation. Plan on missing one to two weeks of work and minimizing heavy lifting until you’ve fully healed.
Do Breast Implants Only Last 10 Years?
There’s a widespread misconception that women with breast implants must have these devices replaced every 10 years. The truth is that there’s no set timeline or expiration date for implants. Some patients will need to replace their implants before 10 years, while others will enjoy them for decades longer.
How Do I Know If I Need to Replace My Breast Implants?
While breast implant replacement doesn’t happen on a specific schedule, some patients will need an implant exchange. We recommend regular monitoring of your breast implants through physical examination and annual ultrasounds to ensure your breast implants remain intact.
If you are happy with your breasts’ appearance and aren’t experiencing complications, you don’t need to worry about having your implants replaced. You can continue to enjoy your breast augmentation results.
If you’re no longer happy with or concerned about your implants, we can help. Many women will decide to have a revision procedure at some point after their initial breast surgery. We work with women exploring exchange surgery every day, and we are happy to help you explore your options.
Common reasons for replacing breast implants include:
- You are not satisfied with the results of a previous breast augmentation.
- You want to change your breast size.
You are concerned about the safety of your implants (eg., Concerns over ALCL or BII)
- You want to switch from saline to silicone implants, or vice versa.
- You’re experiencing a breast implant complication like capsular contracture.
- You have a leak or rupture.
- You are experiencing breast sagging after pregnancy and want a breast lift as part of your mommy makeover.
Meet with Dr. Epstein and explore your options for breast implant exchange at a consultation.
Call MAE Plastic Surgery at (847) 205-1680 to learn more about breast implant exchange surgery in Chicago, IL. Our office proudly serves patients throughout the Chicago metro area, including the communities of Northbrook, Evanston, Arlington Heights, and Oak Park.
