How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants are one of the classic plastic surgery procedures, and have given millions of women around the world an enhanced sense of self-confidence and esteem. However, it is good to know how long do breast implants last? The good news is that most breast implants will last for some time, and it will be about 10 to 20 years before most patients will have to return to the doctor’s office to receive treatment again.
If you are interested in breast implants, our guide can help you understand how long your own might last.
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are a type of image-enhancement procedure that adds volume and heft to a patient’s breasts. The procedure is one of the classics in plastic surgery practice. Besides the aesthetic enhancements offered by this procedure, it is also used in repairing breasts that have been lost or damaged due to cancer or other diseases.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implants?
Most patients who have a good health profile are good patients for breast implants. Some of the general criteria that a physician will look for include:
- Realistic expectations regarding the scope of the procedure
- Good general health profile
- No negative history regarding surgery
- Non-smoker
Prior to receiving any type of surgical work, you will undergo a medical evaluation with your physician to determine your overall level of fitness and eligibility for surgery. Barring any issues, you should be approved for your procedure.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
There is a fairly wide range in terms of how long a patient can expect their breast implants to last. Although they will not last forever, breast implants have the potential to last for a very long time, especially if the patient takes some level of care for them.
In general, you can expect your breast implants to last from anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Some of the variability in terms of this longevity has to do with the behavior of the patient and how they treat their body. In addition, environmental factors and the type of implant that is received can also affect the overall longevity of one’s implants.
Your physician may have additional advice for you in terms of how you can maximize the time that you can maintain the highest level of quality for your implants. Following their advice should help to ensure that you do not have to return to the clinic for replacement or removal.
When Should I Replace My Implants?
Several signs can indicate it is time to replace your implants. Some of these signs can be quite dramatic, while others are more subtle. Some indicators that suggest replacing your implants include:
- Hardening: This includes the development of scar tissue in the area surrounding the implants.
- Saline rupture: Saline implants will deflate rapidly if there are ruptures that develop.
- Silicone rupture: Silicone implants can also rupture, though the visual impact of this may be more subtle than in a saline rupture. Because they are not as obvious as a saline rupture, these are often known as “silent ruptures”.
- Changes in shape and feel: Breast implants that have become slightly worn out will experience changes in size and texture.
- Position changes: If your breast changes positions quickly, abruptly, or dramatically, this can be an indication that the implant has been damaged in some fashion and needs to be replaced.
What Occurs During Implant Replacement?
A qualified plastic surgeon can assist you with implant removal and replacement. You will discuss with them what the right path forward is for you in terms of repair or replacement. The varieties of procedures include:
- Implant removal and breast lift
- Removal of hardened or lumpy tissue
- Implant removal alone
- Implant replacement with possible breast lift
Most patients will find that they receive an almost instantaneous aesthetic improvement from their procedure. However, there are some issues that can arise during a replacement or removal procedure. This includes things like:
- Sagging
- Dimpling
- Asymmetry
- Deflation
The Best Surgeon in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, Inc is one of the most highly regarded plastic surgery clinics in Beverly Hills. If you are interested in receiving world-class treatment and discussing your plans for breast implants, contact us today to hold an appointment with our board-certified surgeon.