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Implant longevity

Steven H. Williams, MD answers: How long before silicone implants risk leakage?

How long can you leave silicone breast implants in before they risk leakage?  Mine are 13 years old and I'm worried that they may start to leak soon.


Steven H. Williams, MD
11 months ago
By Steven H. Williams, MD - Bay Area Plastic Surgeon

I agree with the other surgeons - the average for re-operation for any reason for breast augmentation is between 10-15 years.  It is likely that newer implants (less than ten years old) benefit from newer shell formulations.

and would like to add that even in the face of implant rupture evidence (ultrasound, MRI, physical exam) - it is possible that the implants may be intact upon surgical exploration.

There is no "expiration date" on the implants you have.  There are just averages of when implants fail.

I hope this helps.

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