Silicone or Saline? It makes a difference

If you saline implants and you have no problems....leave them alone.

If you have silicone and they were placed in 1984, they are what we consider 2nd generation silicone implants. The 1st generation were hard and the 2nd generation were soft in response. These implants tended to generate the complaints that we associate with silicone implants today mainly firmness (capsular contracture) and silicone rupture. The silicone in the 2nd generation was about the consistency of rubber cement and it is a messy removal process when ruptured. Therefore, it is in your best interest to find out if it is ruptured as soon as possible to facilitate removal at an early date. The best test for this is the MRI.

Currently we are in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th generation implants which are collectively considered cohesive gel implants with the 5th being nicknamed the "gummy bear" implant. These implants are composed of a thicker silicone which tends to remain intact when ruptured.

The average life span of any implant is about 10-12 years. But in your specific situation, it depends on which type of implant you have. If you have the saline implant, then unless it is deflated, no need to change anything. I have seen saline implants last for 26 years. You will know once they have leaked as your breast size will get smaller on the one side. At that point return to your original surgeon, or find a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.

If you have silicone gel implants, then you will need an MRI to evalute whether or not the implant has leaked. Your body will not resorb the silicone gel, and therefore, you will not notice a size change. Sometimes, you may have symptoms such as firmness or shape change.

Noting the year you had your original surgery, more than likely you have silicone gel implants. I would suggest going back to your original surgeon for an evaluation. If that is not possible, then find a board certified plastic surgeon to review your options and obtain an MRI to see if the implants have leaked. If so, you can consider replacement.

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