A breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that involves placing breast implants to increase breast size or restore breast volume. Breast implants are not meant to last forever, so understanding their longevity is an important consideration when deciding whether to get breast augmentation.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
On average, breast implants last 10-15 years before potentially needing replacement. However, implant duration varies greatly from person to person. Some implants may last only 5-7 years, while others may last 20 years or longer.
There are several factors that influence breast implant longevity:
- Implant type – Saline implants tend to have a shorter lifespan of 7-10 years, while silicone gel implants usually last 10-15 years.
- Implant placement – Submuscular placement often provides a protective tissue padding over the implant, extending its lifespan.
- Your age – Implants placed in younger patients generally need replacing sooner.
- Breast changes – Weight fluctuations, pregnancy/breastfeeding can impact implant longevity.
What Causes Breast Implants to Need Replacing?
There are two main reasons breast implants require replacement surgery:
Implant Rupture
The silicone outer shell can eventually weaken and rupture, most often from normal wear over time. Saline implants will deflate quickly when the shell ruptures. Silicone gel implant ruptures are often silent, meaning the gel leaks slowly without a noticeable change. MRI scans are required to confirm suspected silicone gel ruptures.
Capsular Contracture
Scar tissue naturally forms around the implant within the breast pocket, called a capsule. Sometimes the capsule becomes very firm and contracts, causing pain, distortion, and displacement of the implant.
Replacement Options for Expired Breast Implants
When breast implants need replacing, there are a few options:
- New set of implants – The old implants are removed and replaced with new silicone or saline breast implants.
- Fat transfer – Your own fat is removed via liposuction from elsewhere on your body and injected into the breasts instead of implants.
- Removal without replacement – The implants are removed without any replacement to go back to your natural breast tissue.
The best choice depends on several factors, including your goals, amount of natural breast tissue, and health considerations.
How Is Breast Implant Replacement Surgery Performed?
The replacement procedure is very similar to the original augmentation surgery.
It typically involves:
- General anesthesia
- Incisions to access the implants
- Removal of the old implants
- Insertion of new implants into the pockets
- Closing the incisions
The surgery takes 1-2 hours. Recovery is similar to the initial surgery, with soreness, swelling, and limitations on activity for about 1-2 weeks.
Are There Options for Longer-Lasting Implants?
While 10-15 years is the current standard lifespan for breast implants, manufacturers are working to develop implants that last longer. Some options that may increase longevity include:
- Textured surface implants – The textured shell can adhere better to surrounding tissue and may reduce risk of capsular contracture.
- Gummy bear implants – These cohesive gel silicone implants may avoid leaks and hold their shape better long-term.
- Triple-layered shells – Newer implant designs feature multiple layers of silicone shells for added durability.
Improved implant designs and surgical techniques aim to extend how long breast augmentation results can last to 20 years or beyond. However, implants will likely still need occasional replacing throughout your life.
How Many Replacement Surgeries Will You Need?
The average woman with breast implants will need to get them replaced at least once in her lifetime. Some estimates suggest implant patients require an average of 1-3 replacement surgeries over their lifetime.
However, this can vary substantially based on factors like:
- Your age at the initial augmentation
- The type and quality of your original implants
- How your breasts and implants change over time
A woman who gets implants in her 30s may need to replace them twice more over her lifetime. Someone who gets them in her 60s may never need them replaced if she has no issues. Committing to breast implants often means committing to replacement surgery every 10-15 years.
Can You Remove Without Replacing Implants?
Yes, implant removal without replacement is an option. The surgeon will surgically open the pockets and take out the implants. In some cases, breast lift surgery may be recommended to remove excess stretched out skin for a more natural, uplifted appearance after implant removal.
Without implants, your breast size will return to its natural state. For those who had very small breasts before augmentation, this may mean a nearly flat chest after removal. This is a very personal decision requiring careful thought.
What Are Signs Your Breast Implants Need Replacing?
Look for these signs your breast implants may be reaching the end of their lifespan:
- Noticeably deflated or differently-sized breasts
- Rippling or wrinkling skin
- Implants that have shifted out of place
- Pain, swelling or discomfort around the implants
- Hardened or misshapen breasts
Schedule an exam with your plastic surgeon if you notice any of these changes. Even without symptoms, you should have regular MRIs starting 3 years after surgery to check for silent ruptures.
How Much Does Breast Implant Replacement Cost?
The typical cost range for breast implant replacement surgery is $5,000 – $10,000. However, costs can be higher based on factors like:
- Surgeon fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Type of implants selected
- Extent of reconstruction needed
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
Health insurance does not usually cover cosmetic breast augmentation replacement procedures. Many surgeons offer patient financing plans to help make the costs more affordable.
Should You Have Breast Implants Removed Without Replacing?
There are pros and cons to having breast implants removed without putting in replacements.
Potential pros:
- Avoid risks and complications of implants
- Fewer long-term costs without replacement surgeries
- More natural look and feel
Potential cons:
- Loss of breast size, especially if you had small breasts before
- Potential sagging without implants for support
- Visible breast lift scars in some cases
- Higher expense of breast lift along with implant removal
If you are considering removing your implants without new ones, your surgeon can help you understand the expected aesthetic results and advise if any lifting procedures are recommended.
Can You Reuse Old Breast Implants?
No, breast implant manufacturers and surgeons recommend using brand new implants when replacement is needed. Trying to reuse an old implant introduces risks like:
- Contamination
- Infection
- Shorter lifespan
- Higher chance of rupture
It is safer and provides better long-term results to use new implants designed for your current needs and anatomy.
Conclusion
On average, most breast augmentation patients will require at least one implant replacement in their lifetime. But the good news is that modern implant options can potentially last upwards of 15-20 years or more before needing a redo. Being aware of the longevity of your implants and planning for replacement surgery can help you enjoy beautiful outcomes from your breast enhancement for decades to come.