Do You Have To Replace Breast Implants Every 10 Years?

Kansas City Plastic Surgeon serving Overland Park, Leawood & Nearby Areas of Kansas & Missouri

Posted: June 29, 2020
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Image of a woman and doctor evaluating breast implant samplesModern breast implants are designed to last several years, but they aren’t guaranteed to last forever. In 2011, the FDA released a report which noted that after ten years of initial breast augmentation, one out of five patients required some type of revision surgery. That means while 20% of patients needed breast augmentation revision surgery after ten years, 80% of patients were doing fine.

Breast implants aren’t guaranteed to last forever, so if you’re experiencing a problem, then it may be time to replace them. However, breast implants don’t expire. They aren’t like a car’s air filter that must be replaced every 15,000 – 30,000 miles. With proper monitoring (medical exams and self-exams), your implants may very well last longer than ten years.

Signs You May Need Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery

Rather than thinking about breast implant revision as a time-based consideration, look for signs that indicate a need for revision surgery. Common reasons for breast implant revision or replacement surgery include:

  • Change the implant size, shape, or type: After some time has passed following your initial breast augmentation, your personal preferences may evolve. You may want to change the size and shape of your breast implants. You may also want to change out your saline implants for silicone implants.
  • Asymmetry or drooping: Over time, breast tissue can sag, causing your breasts to appear uneven. Revision surgery can restore symmetry to your breasts.
  • Visible rippling: This can occur with saline implants. Saline fluid can sometimes cause the implant shell to wrinkle. This can be corrected by replacing the type or placement of the implant.
  • Visible implant contour: Women with little natural breast tissue may notice a visible contour or edge of their implants. Placing the implant beneath the chest muscle can effectively address this issue.
  • Implant malposition: Issues with breast tissue or breast capsules can cause implants to sit too far apart, too close together, too low, or too high. Revision surgery can correct these problems and restore an attractive appearance.
  • Ruptured implant: It is possible for breast implant shells to rupture or tear. When saline implants rupture, the breast looks obviously deflated as the saline fluid leaks out of the shell and is absorbed safely and naturally by the body. Silicone implants, on the other hand, retain their shape, even in the event of rupture. MRIs are usually needed to detect these ruptures.
  • Capsular contracture: The term for scar tissue tightening and contracting around a breast implant is “capsular contracture”. This causes the breast to feel very hard and firm. Although scar tissue capsules naturally form around breast implants, it becomes a problem when it constricts and thickens.

There are many reasons why women elect to have their breast implants removed and/or replaced. During your initial consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Levi Young, he will discuss your concerns, explain your options, and develop a customized breast augmentation revision plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Revision Consultation Today

To learn more about breast implant revision surgery, contact Advanced Cosmetic Surgery today online or at 913-586-2538 to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Levi Young. We welcome patients from throughout the Kansas City area, including Leawood and Leawood.

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