What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are placed under your breast tissue or chest muscles to make your breasts bigger, change their shape, or make them look more even. They address concerns like breast size and are commonly used in breast augmentation or reconstruction procedures.
Average Lifespan
On average, people can expect breast implants to last 10 to 20 years. However, this doesn’t mean that they need to be replaced exactly after this period and the lifespan can vary from person to person. Some individuals might never need a replacement, while others might need multiple replacements throughout their lives. The longevity of breast implants can be influenced by several factors, including the type of implant, the patient’s body, and any complications that might arise.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of Breast Implants
Although breast implants are made to last a long time, they aren’t forever. Here are some important things that can affect how long they stay in good shape:
- Implant Type: There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Silicone implants usually last longer than saline ones.
- Saline Implants: Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. If they rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. These implants may show signs of deflation quickly, which makes it easy to detect a rupture.
- Silicone Implants: Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They are less likely to wrinkle or ripple compared to saline implants. If a silicone implant ruptures, it might not be immediately noticeable, a condition referred to as a “silent rupture.”
- Patient Factors & Lifestyle: Factors such as age, lifestyle, and genetics can influence the length of time breast implants last. Individual responses to implants vary. Some bodies might react by forming more scar tissue, while others may tolerate the implants well for decades. Activities that involve high impact or significant chest strain can affect the integrity of the implants over time.
- Complications: Problems like the implant breaking, the tissue around it hardening, or the implant moving can lead to the breast implants not lasting as long.
Monitoring and Maintenance
It’s crucial to monitor the condition of your breast implants and be aware of signs indicating that a replacement might be needed. These signs include:
- Noticeable changes in the shape or size of the breast.
- Pain or discomfort.
- Hardening of the breast (which could indicate capsular contracture).
- Asymmetry between the breasts.
- Visible wrinkling or rippling of the implant.
- Any unusual sensations or changes.
Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon are essential to ensure the health of your implants. In some cases, imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound might be recommended to assess the condition of the implants.
Schedule a Breast Implant Consultation in Washington, D.C.
While the lifespan of breast implants may vary, they can provide you with long-lasting results and enhance your confidence and self-esteem.
If you’re thinking about getting breast implants, talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon. They’ll help you figure out what’s best for you and make a plan that fits your needs.
Want to feel more confident with breast implants? Schedule a consultation at West End Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C. Contact us today at 202-785-4187 to book your appointment.
