28 Jun What is the Lifespan of My Breast Implants?
One of the most common questions asked by women considering breast implants during their consultation is, “How long will my implants last?” It’s a great question and one that has been misleading patients for some time. If you’ve done any of your own research or have spoken to a friend who has gotten implants, you’ve probably heard of the notion that you need to replace your breast implants every 10 years. This statement is absolutely false. But that doesn’t mean, get your breast augmentation and never see your plastic surgeon again.
A lot of factors have to be taken into consideration when answering this question. To put it simply, there is no definitive answer. Every patient is different; every procedure is different. It’s important to note, however, breast implants are not designed to last forever. The fact remains, they are something artificial that you’re putting into your body. In general, though, implants should last between 15 and 20 years, providing that no changes – to your body or implants – have occurred.
Watch For Breast Implant Changes
You should always take note of any changes in how your implants look and feel, regardless of how long you have had them. This could be a matter of weeks, months or years. If anything seems different or unusual, you need to schedule an appointment with your surgeon. This could be a sign that the implant has shifted or possibly ruptured. It’s possible for your implant to be experiencing leakage and you do not even know it. That is one of the reasons surgeons recommend a checkup after so many years.
Expect Breast Augmentation Changes With Age
Another factor that can affect the lifespan of your breast implants is the natural changes your body goes through as you age. Any fluctuations in weight can change the way your implants appear. The same goes for pregnancy and breastfeeding. These are two common factors that often lead to women returning for a possible breast augmentation revision, which may include replacing the implants altogether or simply following up with a breast lift to restore breast augmentation results. As you age your skin will change, and this, too, can affect how your implants sit.
All these variables have to be factored in when asking how long your breast implants will last. Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon Dr. Shaun Parson will take the necessary time to discuss with you about what you can expect from your breast implants. Your satisfaction and safety are always his priority. To learn more about the life expectancy of your breast implants, call Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery at 480-282-8386 to schedule a consultation.