If you’re considering breast implants, you probably want to know how long they’re expected to last.

Here we run through the average lifespan of breast implants and why you might decide to get them replaced or removed.

 

Do breast implants last forever?

There are two options to choose from when it comes to breast implants: silicone and saline. Neither is guaranteed to last forever and are not designed to do so. 10 to 20 years is the average lifespan of breast implants.

 

Can breast implants be replaced or removed?

Breast implants can be replaced and removed. There are several reasons why breast implants are removed or replaced. As you get older your preferences change, so it may be that you’d prefer your breasts to be a different size or shape. Another reason is that you may be experiencing complications with your implants.

 

Removal

If you’ve decided to have your implants removed, you have several options. You can have the implants removed; you can combine the removal with a breast lift; hardened tissue can be removed; or you can have a replacement.

 

Replacement

Replacement is when you get new implants. Here you have the option to choose a different size, shape or type of implant from what you have currently. Since you’ve already had breast implants, the surgeon can usually make the incision in the same place when having them replaced, meaning additional scarring shouldn’t be a concern. Removing scar tissue or undergoing a breast lift may also be combined with breast implant replacement.

 

Do breast implants have to be removed or replaced?

Breast implants age and the risk of ruptures increases as time goes by. If you’re experiencing complications with your implants, then yes, you may need to have them removed or replaced.

But, if you’re not having any issues, then it’s not always the case that breast implants need to be removed or replaced. Everyone is different and it is dependent on the individual, your body and how you look after your implants. What’s important is that your breast implants are regularly checked by yourself and a medical professional.

 

What are the reasons for getting breast implants removed or replaced?

Ruptured saline implant

A hole or tear in the implant will cause the saline to leak out, changing the shape and size of the breast, ultimately causing it to deflate.

 

Ruptured silicone implant

Silicone ruptures can be harder to notice than saline ruptures as silicone is a thicker gel. This means that the gel can remain in the implant or the scar tissue that surrounds it. Although it’s common not to have any symptoms when a silicone implant ruptures, symptoms can include: breasts appearing uneven or reducing in size, hard knots, tingling, swelling, pain, tenderness, burning, sensation changing and numbness.

 

Breast hardening

The body responds to breast implants by surrounding them with fibrous scar tissue. This is a natural part of the healing process. The scar tissue can, however, become unusually hard and this is when it becomes an issue. As a result of the hardening, you may experience tightness, tenderness, pain or changes in the breast’s appearance, such as shape or position.

 

Rippling and palpability

To achieve a natural look, malleability can be favoured over firmness for breast implants. And it’s this malleability that can result in rippling. Palpability is when the ripples can be felt. Having small amounts of breast tissue or having your implants placed above your chest muscle makes rippling more likey.

 

Change appearance

You may decide you want a different look. Perhaps age or a change in weight has led to your breasts stretching or sagging. Or maybe your preferences have changed.

 

How can you help prolong the lifespan of breast implants?

You need to make sure you take care of your breast implants. That means following your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions and guidelines, frequently performing self-checks and checking for silicone ruptures by regularly getting MRI scans.

 

If you’re looking for further information on breast implants, give us a call on +(44) 0121 288 4552 to speak to one of our specialists for expert advice.