Questions About Breast Implants

Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona

How safe are breast implants?

Both saline and silicone breast implants are designed to be safe for your body. Saline implants are filled with a salt water solution; if this solution leaks, your body should absorb it harmlessly. Meanwhile, silicone breast implants contain a cohesive gel that is meant to stay in place in the event of a rupture. If the silicone implant does leak, it will leak very slowly – so slowly that you might not notice any change in your breast size for several years. Because of this, the FDA recommends that women with silicone breast implants have a breast MRI three years after the implants were placed, and every two years into the future.

While most women do not react strongly – if at all – when a silicone implant has leaked, others can become sick. Always follow up on any abnormal symptoms with Dr. Angelchik and/or your primary physician.

How long do breast implants last?

Predicting how long any given breast implant might last is difficult. Generally, the FDA’s research has found that after around ten years of having breast implants, a woman can expect at least one of them to be broken.

Once ruptured, breast implants do need to be removed and replaced. Because of this, you should anticipate needing additional surgery over your lifetime to address leaks and other potential complications. Like any medical device, breast implants become weaker and more worn as they age.

What is the age limit for getting breast implants?

Patients must be at least 18 years old to have saline breast implants placed, and at least 22 years old to receive silicone breast implants. While there is no upper age limit, older patients should be in excellent health and free of any major medical conditions prior to considering breast augmentation. Approval from your primary physician may be necessary.

Is loss of feeling in the nipples common?

Temporary loss of sensation in the nipples after breast augmentation surgery may occur in some patients, but permanent numbness is rare. Nipple sensitivity tends to be better preserved when breast implants are placed beneath the muscle (subpectoral placement). During a consultation, Dr. Angelchik will help you decide which implant method is best for you.

If you have more questions about breast implants or breast augmentation, please contact our Glendale, Arizona office today to schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Angelchik. Patient education is a high priority at our practice; all of our team members will be happy to answer your questions.