Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping countless patients achieve their desired look. However, many patients wonder how long their implants will last and what to expect over time. It’s important to know what to expect after a breast augmentation with Dr. Olivia MaDan at BEYOND Collective in Nashville, TN, and understand how to maintain beautiful, long-lasting results.
How Long Do Breast Implants Typically Last?
Breast implants aren’t designed to last forever, but they also don’t come with an expiration date. On average, most implants last between 10 to 15 years. However, many patients enjoy their implants for even longer without any issues. The longevity of your implants can depend on factors like the type of implant, your body’s natural healing process, and how well you follow post-operative care recommendations.
Saline vs. Silicone: Does Implant Type Affect Longevity?
The type of implant you choose can influence how long they last. Both implant types have their benefits, saline can provide a fuller and rounder appearance while silicone has a more natural look and is softer to touch.
Saline implants, which are filled with sterile salt water, tend to show signs of failure more noticeably—typically by deflating if the shell ruptures. They often last around 10 to 15 years but may require earlier replacement if deflation occurs.
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that more closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Silicone implants are less likely to rupture visibly, and modern implants are known for their durability. These implants can also last 10 to 15 years, with many lasting longer.
Dr. MaDan will help you decide which implant type will best fit your aesthetic goals and lifestyle, as well as help you monitor your implants over their lifetime.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Breast Implants
While breast implants are designed to be durable, they may need to be replaced or removed at some point. Signs to watch for include:
- Visible changes in shape or size: If one or both breasts appear noticeably different in size or shape compared to when you first got your implants, this could be a sign of implant shifting, rupture, or capsular contracture.
- Hardening of the breast (capsular contracture): This occurs when scar tissue forms tightly around the implant, causing the breast to feel firm or even painful. It can also affect the breast’s appearance, making it look misshapen or higher than normal.
- Discomfort or pain: Any persistent discomfort, tightness, or pain in the breasts—especially if it develops years after surgery—could signal an issue with the implant, such as a rupture or capsular contracture.
- Rippling or wrinkling you can feel or see: This is more common with saline implants, particularly in women with thinner breast tissue. You may notice rippling on the sides of your breast or feel uneven textures when you touch the area.
- Deflation (for saline implants): A saline implant rupture usually causes the implant to deflate quickly, making the affected breast look significantly smaller. The body safely absorbs the saline solution, but the implant will need to be replaced to restore symmetry.
- Suspected rupture (for silicone implants): Silicone ruptures can be silent, meaning they may not cause obvious changes in breast size or shape. However, some women experience pain, swelling, or changes in breast contour.
If you notice any of these changes, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with Dr. MaDan to evaluate your implants.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Breast Implants?
If an implant ruptures or complications like capsular contracture occur, leaving the implant untreated can lead to discomfort or distortion of the breast’s appearance. Saline implant ruptures are usually easy to spot due to rapid deflation, but silicone ruptures may not show outward signs. Regular imaging, like an MRI or ultrasound, can help detect silent ruptures.
Can Breast Implants Last a Lifetime?
It’s possible for breast implants to last longer than 15 years without issues, but they aren’t considered lifetime devices. Even if your implants seem fine after decades, it’s still a good idea to monitor them through regular checkups with Dr. MaDan. Some patients choose to replace their implants over time for aesthetic reasons, like upgrading to a different size or switching from saline to silicone.
How to Extend the Life of Your Breast Implants
Want to enjoy long-lasting results? Here are some tips to help extend the life of your breast implants:
- Follow post-operative care instructions to promote optimal healing.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your body’s natural healing processes.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your implants.
- Get periodic imaging (like an MRI or ultrasound) to check for silicone implant ruptures.
What to Expect During Breast Implant Replacement or Removal
If you decide to replace or remove your implants, the procedure is typically more straightforward than the original augmentation. During breast revision or breast implant removal surgery, Dr. MaDan may remove the old implants, address any scar tissue, and place new implants if desired. Recovery is usually faster than the initial procedure, though you may experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few weeks.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Long-Lasting Breast Implant Results
The longevity and success of your breast implants start with choosing the right plastic surgeon. At BEYOND Collective, Dr. MaDan is dedicated to helping patients achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. With extensive training in breast augmentation and revision surgeries, Dr. MaDan prioritizes personalized care and patient satisfaction.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re considering breast implants or think it might be time for a replacement, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you maintain exceptional, confident results for years to come!