How Long Will My Breast Implants Last?

Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, breast implants can help you reach your desired look. Many women undergoing breast augmentation report feeling more attractive and confident due to improved cleavage definition. This enhanced appearance helps build confidence when interacting with others socially or professionally.

Following the first procedure administered in 1961, breast implants’ popularity quickly surged. Breast implants can be a terrific way to improve your figure; but like all medical devices, they don’t last forever.

The Average Lifespan for Breast Implants

The lifespan of breast implants varies depending on several factors, including the type of implant used and how well you care for them. There are two distinct types of implants available to patients: silicone and saline breast implants. For Saline implants, cosmetic surgeons will insert silicone molds before filling them with a saltwater solution. Silicone implants hold a silicone gel that delivers a natural appearance to your chest area.

Generally, most types of silicone or saline breast implants can last from 10 years to 20 years before needing replacement or removal due to wear and tear. If you are not having any problems and your breast implants still fit your lifestyle, there is no reason to seek a replacement. Furthermore, Implants made with cohesive gel typically outlast traditional silicone options by nearly five years!

Patients should also avoid strenuous physical activity until finishing the healing process; taking ample time to heal can mitigate complications that may reduce the implants’ lifespan. Additionally, preventive measures like wearing supportive bras (especially while exercising), avoiding cigarettes, and limiting sun exposure will keep implants looking natural longer!

Signs Your Breast Implants Need Replacements

Proper post-operative maintenance plays a critical role in extending your breast augmentation results. Thus, remember to occasionally check your breast implants for any damage. As you conduct your at-home breast inspections, remember to heed these telltale indicators that you need a breast implant replacement.

Saline Implant Ruptures

If you notice that your breast deflated like a balloon, you can infer that the saline implant ruptured. When the implant gets a hole or a tear, the saline solution leaks out around nearby tissue. Don’t worry, this is harmless! To restore your breasts to their intended shape, schedule surgery with your board-certified plastic surgeon.

Silicone Implant Ruptures

When a silicone implant ruptures, your breast deflates causing a size reduction or an uneven appearance. If you detect a tingling, swelling, burning sensation, or feel numb, your silicone breast implant likely ruptured. Additionally, the silicone gel will leak out to the surrounding muscles and cause painful and uncomfortable complications. But it will not harm your health if it’s treated early.

Hardening of the Breast (Capsular Contracture)

Capsular contracture, also known as breast hardening, is a condition that causes the tissue around one or both breast implants to harden, causing capsular contracture. This can cause your implants to be painful, tighten, or cause asymmetry. If you notice any pain or discomfort, call your plastic surgeon as soon as possible.

Rippling in the Breast

Saline implants can develop wrinkles or cause a visible ripple over time. There’s a good chance you’ll feel the ripple or worse, the ripple or wrinkle is visible through the skin.

Changes in Position

The body’s natural aging process will affect your breast implants. You may notice your breasts sagging or if you lost a drastic amount of weight, the change could cause a shift in position. Consider a breast lift or replacing the implants to restore your desired appearance.

Patients’ Personal Preferences

It’s not uncommon for women to change the physical appearance of their bosom. Whether it’s because they’re looking for a general refresh of the appearance, to change the style the current implant is achieving, or to remove both implants. Overall, the decision to remove or change breast implants depends on the patient’s personal preferences.

Increase the Lifespan of Your Breast Implants

No woman wants to spend more money to replace her breast implants, especially if they are relatively new. Thus, you will want to begin properly caring for your new implants immediately following the operation. Your plastic surgeon will tell you to wear a support garment or surgical bra for proper recovery.

Also, taking proper care of yourself is important to increase the longevity of your breast implants. Make sure you’re attending your follow-up appointments and screenings, supporting a healthy lifestyle, sleeping on your back, and wearing properly fitted bras. The longer you keep your breast implants, the more money will stay in your pocket.

Schedule Your Breast Implant Consultation with Dr. Sanjay Lalla Today!

With the right implant size, shape, and position selected by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, women can achieve beautiful results that are both natural in appearance as well as proportionate to their body types. Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your chest area? Enhance your natural beauty and confidence with a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution.

At Personal Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of the procedure and strive to supply the highest quality care and attention to detail. With an office in West Orange, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sanjay Lalla, will recommend tailored solutions to address breast asymmetry, cup size, and more.

Take the first step to a more beautiful you by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lalla and his friendly staff. Dial (973) 324-9455 today!

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