Mouchantat Plastic Surgery, PC Logo

Schedule a Consultation
Call Us: (303) 232-8585

How Long Do Breast Implants Last Now?

Blog Article

How Long Do Breast Implants Last Now?

If you are considering breast implants, you may be wondering how long they will last. These devices are designed to hold up for many years, and with technology always making improvements, most women will be able to enjoy long-lasting breast augmentation with today’s implants. That said, there are several factors which can influence breast implant longevity. Here is the latest on how long breast implants typically last and what is being done to ensure that they last as long as possible.

The Average Lifespan of Breast Implants Today is 10 to 20 Years

Breast implants are designed to last for years, but they are not permanent devices. According to the latest research, the average lifespan of breast implants today is between 10 and 20 years. The “end” of breast implants’ lifespan may either be due to implant failure (such as implant rupture) or personal choice (to remove or exchange the implants).

Why Aren’t Breast Implants Permanent?

Breast implants are safe for long-term use, but unlike hard metal implants, they are soft and pliable. This makes them more vulnerable to eventual degradation. Still, with regular check-ups and proper care, most patients can expect their implants to last them an average of 10 to 20 years.

Signs that Breast Implants May Need to Be Replaced

There are a few signs that breast implants have lost their integrity and should be replaced for both aesthetic and health reasons. These include:

  • Capsular Contracture: When the scar tissue hardens around a breast implant, it can cause tightness or hardening of the breast along with pain, tenderness, and changes to breast size and shape. This condition can be addressed with revision surgery to remove the hardened capsule and replace the implant with a new one.
  • Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can sometimes rupture or burst, breaking the outer shell of the implant and releasing the implant filler. A ruptured saline implant will harmlessly leak saline into the body and deflate like a balloon, causing a noticeable difference in that breast’s appearance. A ruptured silicone implant, on the other hand, may generally hold its shape and position and therefore may only be detected by mammography. Any ruptured implant (whether silicone or saline) should be surgically replaced. Most patients are advised to replace both implants simultaneously in the event that one ruptures.
  • Implant Rippling: Rippling occurs when an implant’s surface becomes wrinkled and noticeable through the skin. This is more common in patients with thin natural breast tissue or if implants are placed unevenly. In either case, rippling can be corrected by replacing the implants.

Other Reasons You May Choose to Replace Your Breast Implants

There are also a few signs that you may choose to replace or even remove your breast implants, whether or not the implants technically need replacing. These include:

  • Changes in Position: As gravity and age take their toll, breast implants (especially heavy implants) may accelerate breast sagging. Should this happen, you may choose to consider a breast lift with implant replacement to return your breasts to your desired appearance.
  • Personal Choice: Changes in your personal preferences may motivate you to get revision surgery. Whether to upgrade implant size, downgrade size, change implant types, or even remove the implants entirely, you have the freedom to make the decision that is right for you.

Are There Ways to Make Breast Implants Last Longer?

The answer is yes! You can take proactive steps to prolong the life of your breast implants:

  • Postoperative Instructions: Following your postoperative instructions during recovery can make a significant difference in how long your implants will last. It is recommended that you follow your surgeon’s recommendations explicitly and ask them whatever questions you may have. If the body is not well-cared for while healing from surgery, and if the implants are not well-supported during recovery, they may be more likely to sag or have complications later.
  • Regular Checkups: Getting regular checkups with your surgeon as well as performing self-checks can help extend the lifespan of your breast augmentation results.
  • Healthy Living: Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle can help you avoid weight gain or loss. This reduces strain on the implants, minimizing the risk of premature rupture or deflation.
  • Wear Supportive Bras: It is strongly recommended that you always wear a properly fitted bra, especially during exercise and physical activity. This keeps the implants supported during your daily activities and minimizes the risk of implant failure.

Rest assured that for many patients, breast implants can last for 20 years or more. So if you are considering breast augmentation, know that with attentive care and an excellent surgeon, your breast implants could stay intact for many years.

To learn more about breast implants and how to have ensure long-lasting breast augmentation results, schedule your consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Richard Mouchantat. Call (303) 232-8585 or contact us online today.



Find Posts By Date:

  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • April 2023
  • March 2023
  • February 2023
  • January 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • August 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • March 2017
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • October 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • February 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • Before and After Gallery

    BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY

    Dr. Mouchantat has been performing plastic surgery procedures in the Denver area since 1996. Some of these procedures include abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, breast reduction, liposuction, face lifts and eyelid surgery. Dr. Mouchantat is experienced in fat grafting techniques as well. Some procedures can be done comfortably in the office under local anesthesia, while others are done in an accredited outpatient surgical facility or hospital setting.

    Schedule Your Visit at Our Office!