Once a woman receives breast implants, it’s unlikely she’ll have to replace them unless she decides to change the appearance of her breasts. However, there are circumstances in which breast implants do require replacement. Board-certified Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Ary Krau explains when replacement is needed.
Bodily Changes and Breast Implants
Over time, a woman’s body changes, and this can affect the look of her breast implants. Pregnancy can change the shape of the breasts, as can breastfeeding and weight gain. Most women can breastfeed with implants, although much will depend on the implants’ exact placement. In truth, if a woman is planning on getting pregnant and wants to breastfeed, it’s best that she postpones breast augmentation until after she is done having children. But this is not always realistic. All of these factors should be discussed with a board-certified plastic surgeon prior to making a decision.
Breast Implant Complications
Occasionally, complications arise with breast implants. A saline implant may rupture, which is apparent immediately as the affected breast deflates. If a silicone implant ruptures, obvious deflation doesn’t necessarily occur, but an MRI can determine whether or not a silicone implant has a defect. When an implant leaks or ruptures, it needs removal and replacement, but this is not a medical emergency.
Average Breast Implant Lifespan
Breast implants are a major investment in your appearance, and it’s natural that you don’t want to have multiple surgeries. Most breast implants last 10 to 20 years, and many may last a lifetime. According to the FDA, approximately 20 percent of women will have their breast implants replaced – or repaired – within a decade post-surgery. That means 80 percent of women with breast implants have them for more than 10 years, so the odds are definitely in your favor for long-term breast implant satisfaction. The key is to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Krau.
Contact Dr. Krau
If you are considering breast implants and would like more information about the procedure and implant durability, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Krau. Contact his Miami office by calling (305) 861-6881 or emailing us today.