The Lifespan of Breast Implants, What to Expect, and When to Consider Replacement
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.
For many women, breast implants offer a way to enhance breast shape, restore volume, or achieve the body contour they’ve always wanted. Whether placed during breast augmentation surgery or reconstructive procedures, breast implants are not lifetime devices—they need to be replaced at some point. Understanding the lifespan of breast implants, recognizing signs of implant complications, and knowing when to consider breast implant revision surgery can help you maintain your health, comfort, and desired aesthetic.
Understanding the Lifespan of Breast Implants
On average, breast implants last between 10 to 15 years. While some may last longer without issues, others may require implant replacement or breast implant removal earlier due to complications or breast changes from the natural aging process, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy. Routine monitoring is essential to detect ruptures or other changes in your breast tissue that could signal the need for implant exchange.
Types of Breast Implants and Their Durability
The most common types of implants include saline breast implants and silicone gel-filled implants:
- Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and tend to deflate noticeably in the event of a ruptured implant.
- Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel that more closely mimics natural breast tissue. These can sometimes experience “silent ruptures” that are harder to detect without imaging studies.
Regardless of type, all implants can experience wear and tear over time, leading to implant leaks, implant rupture, or capsular contracture, a condition where scar tissue hardens around the implant pocket, distorting the breast shape and causing discomfort.
Signs It’s Time to Consider a Breast Implant Exchange
Some women choose breast implant replacement for aesthetic reasons, such as larger breasts or correcting sagging breasts. Others require revision surgery due to medical concerns. Common signs that it may be time to have your saline or silicone breast implants replaced include:
- Noticeable changes in breast appearance or implant size
- Ruptured implant or visible deflation (in saline implants)
- Pain, tightness, or firmness due to capsular contracture
- Shifting or asymmetry of breast implants
- Hardening of scar tissue (capsular contracture)
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Breast Implants
To help prolong the life of your breast implants, there are a few vital tips Dr. Angelchik always recommends:
- Maintain a stable weight; weight gain and fluctuations can stretch breast tissue.
- Wear supportive bras to help maintain breast shape.
- Follow your surgeon’s guidelines regarding compression garments and post-operative care.
Understanding the Breast Implant Exchange Procedure
If your implants need to be replaced, breast implant exchange is a common procedure performed under general anesthesia or sometimes local anesthesia, depending on the complexity. Your plastic surgeon may remove the old implants, adjust the implant pocket, remove scar tissue, and possibly perform a breast lift to improve results.
Recovery time varies but typically lasts up to six weeks, with many patients resuming light activities within a few weeks. Swelling and discomfort can be managed with medication and proper post-op care to reduce swelling and support healing.
Why Choose Dr. Paul Angelchik in Arizona?
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience in breast surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant revision, and implant removal. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, ensuring a high standard of care and safety.
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Angelchik ensures your implant replacement or revision surgery is focused on precision and patient-centered care, tailored to your unique anatomy and goals. Whether you’re addressing old breast implants, considering a new implant size, or correcting implant complications, you’ll be in expert hands. If you’re experiencing issues with your breast implants or want to update the results of your initial surgery, schedule a consultation with Angelchik, MD.
