When Should I Replace My Implants?
Whenever I consult with a patient regarding breast augmentation, I let them know that breast implants will not last a lifetime. Although there are no hard and fast expiration dates there are many reasons why women may choose to replace their breast implants.
The first reason, and perhaps the most common, is the desire to change the implant size. A woman may have been initially happy with the chosen implant but over time may want a larger or smaller implant. Pregnancy and weight loss may lead to loose skin and the need for a bigger implant to help restore fullness. Weight gain may lead to the desire to have smaller and less heavy breasts.
The second reason women seek breast implant revision is when their breasts begin to age and droop. Pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, and gravity all affect the position of the breasts. Women may then choose to have a breast lift with a smaller implant replacement.
Another common reason that women seek an implant exchange is when they discover that their implants have ruptured or deflated. With a saline implant, the rupture is quite obvious because the implant loses volume and becomes softer and more rippled. With silicone implants, a mammogram or MRI will often be the first indicator that the implant is no longer intact. A silicone implant does not lose volume but can change shape or feel firmer. A leakage may not be detected on the physical exam. For that reason, many women will choose to replace their implants every 10 years or have their implants checked with an MRI. A mammogram may not show an early or “intracapsular” rupture.
The development of capsular contracture is a frequent reason that women seek the advice of a plastic surgeon for their breast implants. Capsular contracture is the thickening and hardening of the scar tissue (or capsule) that forms around every implant. This contracture makes the implant feel firmer and can be painful and unnatural appearing. In severe cases, the implant shifts to a more superior position in the breast leading to breast asymmetry. Sometimes capsular contracture can occur soon after breast augmentation but often is the result of implant leakage and warrants investigation.
Lastly, many women have enjoyed their implants but are now ready to have them permanently removed. Aging and the development of medical problems may lead women to remove the implants while they are healthy enough to do so. Some women may have developed symptoms that they attribute to the implants. Weight gain with the development of larger breasts may lead women to feel that the implants are no longer needed.
In summary, there are many reasons that women decide to exchange or remove their implants. Finding a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon is key to obtaining the best advice and medical care.