How Often Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?

Most individuals are aware that silicone breast implants eventually need to be replaced because they do not last forever. How frequently breast implants must be updated is something that most people are unaware of. Some people believe that getting implants will require them to be renewed every few years. Thankfully, that is untrue. You can learn everything you need to know about breast implant surgery from this guide.

How Often Should you Replace Breast Implants?

The very first thing to understand is that breast implants don’t have a set, inflexible expiration date. FDA approval for the majority of saline and silicone implants lasts for 10–20 years, although this does not mandate that you replace them every 10–20 years. These time constraints can be safely exceeded, and the majority of patients only need one or two replacements throughout their lifetime. 

The kind of implant you get and your physiology will determine how long you can healthily go between replacements. Before your treatment, your surgeon should go over the lifespan of the implants with you.

One in 5 women must have their breast implants changed after ten years, according to a 2011 FDA assessment. In other words, 4/5 of women given implants can use them for upwards of ten years before they need to be replaced.

How Can you Tell if Your Implants Should Be Replaced?

Although your implants have already been given the go-ahead for a set period of time, they can require maintenance before that period is over. If your breasts feel rigid, your implants could need to be replaced or revised. Around one or even both implants, some people experience hardened scar tissue capsular contracture. Although uncommon, this is a sign that you should see your surgeon.

They might also have to be replaced if an implant ruptures, though this is extremely uncommon. Rupture occurs in 2% to 12% of individuals with silicone implants. Saline and silicone implants both can rupture, although silicone implants are more likely to maintain their shape and remain in place.

In contrast, saline leaks. You might not even be aware that your implants have burst because saline is non-toxic and won’t make you feel ill. In actuality, very few people even show any symptoms. There is a potential that your implants have ruptured, therefore you should schedule a consultation with your surgeon or GP if your breasts get smaller, get hard knots, look uneven, or start to hurt or tingle.

Additionally, be on the lookout for any ripples on the skin all around breasts, as this could indicate that the implant itself is wrinkly. Although this is harmless, rippling is undesirable because most women who undergo breast implants want bigger, supple breasts.

Additionally, particularly if you have had kids, your implants may move as you age. It is advisable to have your implants replaced if they shift position. If you experience major weight gain or loss, breast implants may also move.

Last but not least, you might decide to exchange your present implants for new ones that are bigger or smaller in the future. This is an excellent justification for having your implants replaced!

Silicone rupture (silent rupture)

Silicone implants may also rupture.  Saline solution is significantly thinner than silicone gel. The gel frequently remains inside silicone implants or the adjoining scar tissue when they rupture. As a result, silicone implant ruptures frequently go unreported. 

The most people don’t have any symptoms. Reduced breast size, uneven breast look, swelling, hard knots, numbness, tingling, changes in feeling, discomfort or tenderness, and burning can all be indications of breast cancer.

Despite the fact that the incidence of silicone tear is not known with certainty, it is thought to range from 2 to 12 percent. Some implants fail right away, some after a few years, even others after ten years or more.

What to expect with implant removal

Your breast implants can be removed by any licensed plastic surgeon. Not necessarily the same surgeon who performed your initial operation. The surgeon of your choice will assess the condition of your present implants and go through your surgical alternatives during an initial consultation.

You might be able to go home the day after your surgery, depending on the particulars of your procedure. Everyone’s recovery period is different. While many people may return to work in about five days, it will take you about six weeks to be ready to resume rigorous activities like lifting and working out. You can speed up your recovery and reduce infection risk by carefully following all postoperative instructions.

What to expect with implant replacement

Your doctor may decide to replace your implants with a more recent model during an implant replacement operation. It is up to you whether you continue using the same type, form, and size.

Another option is to combine the surgery with scar tissue removal or a breast lift.

Implant replacement is more expensive than implant removal. The initial removal, new implants, and any associated treatments are your responsibility to pay for.

Conclusion

The longevity of implants is not assured. For a number of reasons, you could require that they are taken out or replaced. Working with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and adhering to all postoperative guidelines are the greatest ways to assure their lifetime.