Do Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced?
When you undergo breast augmentation, you’re excited to see the results of your newly enhanced figure. However, while breast augmentation results are considered permanent, you will have to get your implants replaced at some point. In this blog, we’ll discuss reasons you may need to get your breast implants replaced, from potential complications to the age of the implants.
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Do Breast Implants Last Forever?
Whether you choose saline or silicone material, breast implants are made to be durable and lasting. However, just like any manufactured device, they have a finite lifespan. Breast implants last about ten to fifteen years on average, though some may last as long as 20 years. The longer you’ve had the implants, the more likely they are to fail, so getting them replaced on your timeline is always a better idea than waiting for a leak or rupture.
Saline implants may begin to slowly lose volume over time, and the outer shell may wrinkle, causing visible wrinkles in your breasts. Ruptures or leaks in saline implants are easily discovered because your breast will show noticeable deflation.
Silicone implants may also leak or rupture, but discovering an issue is much more difficult because of the highly cohesive gel that fills the implants. That’s why it is recommended that you get an MRI every two years to ensure that your silicone implants are intact.
Reasons to Replace Breast Implants
Besides replacing aging or damaged implants, there are several other reasons you may seek breast implant revision surgery.
Capsular Contracture
A fairly common side effect after breast augmentation is capsular contracture. It occurs when the scar tissue capsule that forms around your breast implant tightens and contracts around it, causing your breast to feel hard. It can also cause pain and discomfort, as well as a visible deformity in the shape of your breast.
Treating capsular contracture requires surgery to remove and replace the implant.
Implant Malposition
In some cases, your implants may shift out of place, a condition called implant malposition. Lateral malposition occurs when the implants slide to the outer edges of your chest, while symmastia occurs when the implants meet in the middle to create a “uniboob.” Other types of malposition include bottoming out (when the implant falls below the breast crease) or high malposition (when the implants sit too high on the chest). Breast revision surgery is required to address any type of implant malposition.
Aesthetic Concerns
Over time, you may wish to change how your breasts look by increasing or decreasing their size, changing from round to teardrop-shaped implants, or switching from saline to silicone. You may also wish to address sagging due to the natural aging process or asymmetry due to weight fluctuations. Whatever your cosmetic concerns, breast revision surgery can help.
Learn More About Breast Revision Surgery in Orange County
Choosing to undergo breast revision surgery is a highly personal choice, so choosing the right plastic surgeon to perform the procedure is essential. Whether you want to change the appearance of your breast implants, replace aging implants, or wish to remove your implants altogether, Dr. Robert Wald and the skilled staff at The Aesthetic Institute are here to help. To schedule a consultation and discuss your breast revision options, call today at (714) 312-3549 or complete the online contact form.