After getting breast implants, many patients wonder how long they will last. If the results are good, patients may not be keen on getting a replacement done for fear of changing the way they look.
However, breast implants must be replaced every so often. Breast implants sit beneath the breast tissue or the chest muscles, and as a result, can start to sag or become uneven over time. Despite this, breast implants don’t need to be replaced as often as many women think!
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Average Duration of Breast Implants
How long do breast implants last? There is a common misconception that breast implants need to be replaced or redone every 3 years. This isn’t true: modern breast implants last much longer. Most women won’t need a replacement but every 10-20 years.
Some implants can last a lifetime; however, manufacturer’s warranty on breast implants only last 10 years. This doesn’t mean that you must get your implant replaced after 10 years of having an implant; it just means that the warranty period is over.
How Often Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?
There is no definitive amount of time that a breast implant should remain before getting it replaced. Implants should only be replaced if you are having issues with it.
Again, most women don’t report issues with their implants until 10-20 years after getting them. However, issues can crop up much sooner. If there is a problem with the implant itself, manufacturers offer a warranty of 10 years on their implants.
Different types of implants have different issues. Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. A ruptured implant will not cause physical harm, but it may noticeably alter the shape and size of your breasts.
What are some issues that might cause you to replace your breast implants? Here are a few reasons why women choose to get their implants replaced.
Why You Might Need To Replace Breast Implants
Leaking Implants
Breast implants can rupture or leak. This isn’t dangerous, but it can be noticeable. If you notice a dramatic change in shape or size, it may be caused by a leak. This may require an implant replacement.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is when the body forms scar tissue around the breast implants, causing them to get hard. This can be painful and can also give the breasts a stiff appearance. In this case, reparative surgery is often needed.
Asymmetrical Breasts
Breasts naturally change in size and shape over time. This can cause one breast to look larger or more perky than the other, giving the breasts an asymmetrical appearance. This can be fixed by either switching out one or more implants, or redoing the surgery.
Aging
As you get older, your skin becomes less elastic. This causes your breasts to sag and possibly appear rippled. Redoing your breast implants is a great way to give your breasts a perkier, age-defying appearance.
In Summary
- Breast implants only need to be replaced when there are issues, such as an undesired appearance or physical pain.
- Most women don’t experience issues until 10-20 years after getting their implants in.
- Breast implants typically have a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 years.