Aging Breast Implants: Know the Facts

Woman preparing for breast augmentation procedure

How often to breast implants need to be replaced?  The reality of implants is that you will probably have one or two follow-up surgeries in your lifetime. It’s not a given, but it is better to be prepared for the possibility than to be surprised when you experience a complication or dissatisfaction with your implants.

When it comes to the “average lifespan” of implants, there are no guarantees. Some will last a lifetime, while others have complications within seven years. On average, the majority of implants last 10-20 years without complications. Recent FDA reports indicate that about 20% of women will have their breast implants repaired or replaced within 10 years of the original surgery.

HOW OFTEN DO BREAST IMPLANTS LEAK?

As with all types of surgery, complications from breast implants are varied. A common complication is a ruptured or leaky implant. When this happens, reparative surgery is not medically urgent or even necessary, but is performed for obvious cosmetic reasons.

Whether you are considering saline or silicone implants, the difference for how noticeable a leak is varies from case to case.

 

WHAT HAPPENS TO BREAST IMPLANTS AS YOU AGE?

Many patients choose to replace their implants because of the natural effects of aging. All breasts, whether natural or implanted, are subject to gravity, sun damage, lost tissue connectivity and the physical effects of motherhood.

Time-related changes often include breast sagging, size change due to hormonal fluctuations, or visible rippling of the implants. Women who received implants before motherhood may discover that pregnancy and breastfeeding change the original appearance of their breast implants. Thus, a number of patients voluntarily return after they are through having children, wanting to restore their breasts to the look and feel of the original implants.

As with any other type of surgery, patients can reduce some of the risk of complications by selecting a surgeon who is board-certified, well-experienced and has a respected presence in the medical community. Make sure you put your beauty in hands you can trust:  call Azalea Center for Plastic Surgery today to set up a consultation.