If you’ve searched the internet for information about breast augmentation, you’ve probably heard this simple piece of advice: “Breast implants must be replaced every 10 years.”
On the surface, this makes sense. Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, and anyone who chooses to get them should understand that they will likely need to be replaced at some point.
But is there really a 10-year-to-the-day cutoff?
In his Milwaukee, Wisconsin clinic, Dr. Mark Bosbous has performed countless breast augmentations, as well as implant replacements. Today, we’re going to go over when you really need to replace your implant, and why the 10-year rule might not be as straightforward as it seems.
What’s the Deal with the 10-Year Rule?
To put it simply, you should not think of the 10-year mark as an expiration date. Instead, it’s mostly a planning benchmark. Long-term studies tracking breast implant patients note that many have complications or get them replaced at 10 years. Consequently, some say that swapping out your implants at the 10-year mark may be best for those who have received a breast augmentation.
In reality, however, the revision rates measured at this 10-year point include more than implant failure. Patients seek additional treatment for all kinds of reasons: changes in breast tissue, dissatisfaction with size, implant movement, or even just a desire to remove their implant. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and the natural aging process may also play a role in one’s decision to seek additional surgery.
From this, it should be clear that the idea that one’s breast implant is sure to fail after 10 years is a fiction. Still, there are things that can happen to an implant over time that may make someone want to seek a follow-up surgery.
Why Might an Implant Need to Be Replaced?
One of the most obvious reasons for revision surgery is implant rupture.
When a saline implant ruptures, the implant tends to deflate, causing the breast to lose volume and shape. Silicone gel implants, in contrast, can rupture without any obvious change in appearance or feel. While ruptures are not certain over the lifespan of a breast implant, the risk of rupture tends to increase the longer an implant has been in place.
Another common reason one may seek an implant revision is something called “capsular contracture.” When you get an implant, the body will naturally form scar tissue, called a capsule, around it. If that capsule becomes too tight, the breast may become firm, visibly distorted, or painful. In severe cases, the implant may need to be removed and/or replaced, with the surrounding area treated accordingly.
There are other reasons why one may seek a revision. These could include infection, persistent pain, rippling, changes in symmetry, or just a change in personal preference.
What Follow-Ups Do Implants Require?
Your surgeon should tell you all about follow-up discussions before and after your procedure. Generally speaking, experts recommend that one seek an ultrasound or MRI starting five to six years after the placement of a silicone implant, followed by imaging every two to three years.
While ultrasound may be sufficient for most patients, an MRI is generally recommended if patients experience symptoms, or if the results of an ultrasound are uncertain.
To be clear, this is not the same as a routine breast-cancer screening. Patients should continue mammograms or other breast scanning procedures according to their age, history, and clinician’s recommendations. They should also inform their imaging facility that they have implants.
Those who have saline implants should attend all postoperative appointments recommended by their surgeon. Apart from that, they should simply monitor their breasts and implants long-term. If any issues arise, or they suspect something is amiss with their implant, they should schedule an appointment.
No matter which implants you have, you should seek a follow-up appointment if you experience persistent pain, increasing firmness, a change in breast size or shape, a lump, unexplained swelling or fluid around the implant, new asymmetry, or anything in your breast that just doesn’t feel quite right.
Is There a Guaranteed Lifespan for Breast Implants?
Breast implants don’t last forever, but they also don’t carry a mandatory 10-year replacement date. An implant that is intact, comfortable, and still producing a satisfactory result may not require additional surgery simply because 10 years have passed.
If you have questions about your current implants, or are seeking a revision, reach out today to schedule a consultation.