Breast implants are not permanent devices and will likely require replacement or removal at some point. Understanding their expected lifespan and replacement considerations is important for anyone with implants or considering augmentation.
Expected Lifespan of Breast Implants
Generally, implants are expected to last between 10 to 20 years, though this can vary significantly among individuals. Both saline and silicone implants are designed to be robust, but the materials can degrade over time due to normal wear and tear within the body.
The actual longevity of an implant depends on numerous factors, including the individual’s body, lifestyle, and the specific type of implant. Replacement is not always a response to a problem; sometimes, it is a proactive decision made by the individual.
Modern silicone implants, particularly the cohesive gel or “gummy bear” types, are often noted for their durability and may have an average life expectancy toward the higher end of the 10-20 year range. Saline implants typically also fall within this general timeframe. The increasing risk of complications with age means that older implants are more likely to eventually need replacement.
Why Implants May Need Replacement
Several factors can necessitate the replacement of breast implants, ranging from medical complications to personal aesthetic preferences. One primary reason is implant rupture, which differs in presentation between saline and silicone types. A saline implant rupture typically results in a noticeable deflation as the saltwater solution is absorbed by the body.
Silicone implant ruptures, often termed “silent ruptures,” can be more subtle because the cohesive gel tends to stay within the fibrous capsule that forms around the implant. This means there may be no immediate visible signs or symptoms, making detection more challenging without imaging.
Another common issue is capsular contracture, where the natural scar tissue capsule around the implant hardens and tightens. This can cause the breast to feel firm, appear distorted, or become painful.
Implants may also require replacement due to aesthetic concerns such as rippling or wrinkling, where the implant’s edges become visible or palpable through the skin. This is more common with saline implants or in individuals with minimal natural breast tissue.
Implant malposition, where the implant shifts from its original placement, or “bottoming out,” where the implant drops too low, can also lead to the need for revision. Finally, individuals may simply desire a change in breast size, shape, or type over time, prompting elective replacement.
Signs Your Implants May Need Attention
Recognizing potential issues with breast implants often involves observing changes in the breasts or experiencing new sensations. Pain or tenderness in or around the breast tissue can be an indicator of an underlying problem, such as inflammation or pressure from a complication.
A noticeable change in the firmness or hardening of the breast, particularly if it feels rigid, may suggest the development of capsular contracture. Changes in the overall shape or size of the breast can also signal an issue. This might manifest as one breast appearing smaller or differently shaped than the other, which can occur with implant deflation or displacement.
Visible rippling or wrinkling on the breast’s surface is another sign that the implant may be showing its age or experiencing a structural issue. Individuals might also feel lumps in the breast or armpit area, which could indicate a silicone leak or other tissue reaction. Any such changes warrant prompt evaluation by a medical professional.
Navigating Implant Monitoring and Replacement
Regular monitoring is important for individuals with breast implants to ensure their ongoing health and the integrity of the implants. This includes performing routine self-exams of the breasts to become familiar with their normal appearance and feel. Regular check-ups with a plastic surgeon are also recommended to assess the implants clinically.
For silicone implants, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises periodic imaging screenings to detect silent ruptures. The first such screening, typically an MRI or ultrasound, is recommended five to six years after the initial surgery, followed by subsequent screenings every two to three years. Imaging is not routinely required for saline implants, as a rupture is usually evident through visible deflation.
If replacement becomes necessary, several options are available. These can include explantation, which is the complete removal of the implants without replacement. Alternatively, new implants can be placed, potentially with a different size, shape, or type. Sometimes, a breast lift may be performed in conjunction with implant replacement to address changes in breast tissue or skin laxity.