How often do you need to replace breast implants?

One of the questions that cosmetic surgeons frequently face during a breast augmentation consultation is how long are the breast implants likely to last? There is no single accurate answer to this question because individual results after breast augmentation are bound to vary. 

But in general, if you have chosen a skilled and experienced breast surgeon, the results of your breast augmentation plastic surgery are likely to last for anywhere between 10 and 20 years or more. This, however, does not take away from the fact that a few patients will develop implant related complications within their first 10 years, and will require implant removal or replacement. 

Envy Aesthetic Center, led by board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marco Gonzalez, provides safe and proven cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to patients in El Paso, TX, and surrounding locations.

Will You Need Implant Replacement Every Few Years?

It is a common myth that your breast implants are only likely to last for a few years. The reality is that although you may have to remove or replace your implants at least once in your life, you can expect them to last for decades without any complication. 

In 2011, an FDA study showed that only about one in five women with breast implants will need a breast revision surgery in their first 10 years after the augmentation procedure. This data already shows that at least eight in 10 women can expect their augmentation results to last for more than 10 years, and probably much longer. 

More importantly, you should recognize that implant qualities and surgical techniques have dramatically improved in the last decade (since this FDA study was conducted.) Clearly, the average longevity of breast implants would have further improved during this period, even though there may not be adequate hard data to support this. 

It is also pertinent to note that breast implant manufacturers now commonly offer lifetime warranty on the implants. They will only do that when they are confident of the quality of their implants because otherwise they are the ones who would be placed in a difficult financial position if they have to honor the warranty and provide new implants for free every few years. 

Why do Some Women Need to Replace Implants?

Implant complications such as rupture, capsular contracture, shifting, and rippling may not leave you with much choice but to have your breast implants removed or replaced. 

However, you should know that a vast majority of women seek breast implant removal or breast implant replacement cosmetic surgery out of their own choice, and not because they suffered any medical or implant related complication.

Aging, pregnancy, gravity, weight fluctuations, and other factors are going to take their toll on a woman’s breast tissue over time. If your implants no longer fit your changed breast appearance over the decades, or your personal cosmetic preferences have changed, you will have the option to have your breast implants removed or replaced.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Marco Gonzalez receives patients from El Paso, TX, and nearby areas for surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures for the breast, body and face.   

For more information on Plastic Surgery (cirugía plástica) and Non-Surgical Medical Spa procedures and treatments, please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (cirujano plástico), Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez (Dr. G) by clicking here or calling 915-600-2639.

Serving patients in El Paso Texas, Las Cruces New Mexico, Ciudad Juárez Mexico and surrounding areas.