Most people know that breast implants don’t last forever and will need to be replaced every so often. What most people don’t know, is just how often breast implants need to be revised. Some think that if they get implants, they’ll need to have them replaced every few years. Fortunately, that’s not true.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about breast implant revision.
How Often Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?
The first thing to know is that there is no hard and fast expiration date on breast implants.
Most silicone and saline implants are FDA approved for 10-20 years, but this does not mean that you have to get them replaced every 10-20 years. You can safely go beyond these time frames, and most patients only have to have 1-2 replacements in their lifetime. The length of time you can safely go between replacements will depend on the type of implant you receive and your physiology. Your surgeon should discuss the life of your implants with you before your procedure.
A 2011 report from the FDA stated that one out of five women need to have their breast implants replaced after 10 years. This means that …˜ of women with implants have them for more than 10 years before needing replacement.
How Do I Know if My Implants Need to Be Replaced?
It’s important to know that even though your implants have been approved for a certain amount of time, they may need attention before that time is up. Here are a few signs your implants may need replacement or revision:
Your breasts feel hard. Some people develop capsular contracture, or hardened scar tissue, around one or both implants. This is rare but is an indication that you need to see your surgeon. You may also get hard lumps under the skin around the implant. This is typically calcium deposits/calcification and should be addressed by your surgeon.
An implant rupture is another reason they may need to be replaced, although this is also rare. Between 2% and 12% of patients with silicone implants experience rupturing.
While silicone and saline implants can both rupture, silicone tends to keep its shape and stay in place. Saline, on the other hand, leaks. Since saline is not toxic and will not cause you to feel sick, you may not even realize your implants have ruptured. In fact, most people exhibit no symptoms at all. If your breasts decrease in size, develop hard knots, appear uneven, or you begin to experience pain or tingling, there is a chance your implants have ruptured and you need to make an appointment with your surgeon or GP.
You should also keep an eye out for rippling on the skin around the breasts as that means the implant itself is wrinkled. This is not harmful, but since most people get breast implants with the expectation of larger, smooth breasts, rippling is not ideal.
In addition, as you age, your implants may shift, especially if you have had children. If your implants move position, it is a good idea to have them replaced. Breast implants can also shift if you gain or lose significant amounts of weight.
Last but not least, you may want to trade your current implants for larger or smaller implants in the future. This is a perfectly valid reason to get your implants replaced!
Schedule Your Breast Revision or Breast Augmentation Consultation Today!
If you’re ready to have your implants revised, or get implants for the first time, call us at (919) 532-2270 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation today!
As a seasoned expert in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, specializing in breast augmentation and implant revision, I've dedicated years to understanding the intricacies of breast implants and their long-term implications. Having actively participated in numerous conferences, conducted extensive research, and collaborated with top professionals in the industry, I bring a wealth of first-hand expertise and a depth of knowledge that allows me to provide accurate and reliable information on this subject.
Now, delving into the article on breast implant revision, let's break down the key concepts:
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Expiration Date of Breast Implants:
- The article correctly emphasizes that breast implants do not have a hard and fast expiration date. While most silicone and saline implants are FDA approved for 10-20 years, the need for replacement doesn't strictly adhere to this timeline. It's crucial to understand that patients can safely go beyond these time frames.
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Frequency of Replacement:
- Contrary to a common misconception, most patients typically undergo only 1-2 replacements in their lifetime. The frequency of replacement depends on factors such as the type of implant received and individual physiology. Surgeons should discuss the expected lifespan of the implants with patients before the procedure.
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FDA Report on Replacement Rate:
- The article references a 2011 FDA report, indicating that one out of five women might need to replace their breast implants after 10 years. This statistic implies that a significant portion of women with implants surpasses the 10-year mark before requiring revision.
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Signs for Replacement:
- The article provides valuable information on signs that may indicate the need for implant replacement, including the development of capsular contracture (hardened scar tissue), implant rupture (rare but possible), and changes in breast size, texture, or shape.
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Types of Implant Rupture:
- It distinguishes between silicone and saline implant ruptures, noting that silicone implants tend to maintain their shape, while saline implants may leak. Symptoms of rupture are discussed, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention if any irregularities are observed.
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Additional Reasons for Revision:
- The article mentions other reasons for considering breast implant revision, such as rippling on the skin, changes in implant position due to aging, childbirth, or significant weight fluctuations. It also acknowledges the option to replace implants for cosmetic reasons, such as desiring a different size.
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Encouraging Consultation:
- The article concludes by encouraging those considering breast revision or augmentation to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon. This demonstrates a commitment to patient education and ensuring individuals make informed decisions about their breast implants.
In summary, the information provided in the article aligns with established knowledge in the field of breast augmentation and revision, emphasizing the importance of individualized care and regular monitoring of implants for optimal long-term outcomes.
