Breast implant last: The actual word-for-word FDA recommendations

I'll address the more pressing issue first. We are told many different answers on how long one should go with breast implants. Some of the more senior surgeons respond that the FDA recommends that we tell our patients that the FDA recommends we exchange implants at 15 years even if they appear intact. Once the patient has heard this recommendation, they can do as they wish but we as physicians have held up our side of the deal with the FDA and document it in the chart. This doesn't seem to have transcended across the generations because nobody mentions this anymore.  The FDA website reads this recommendation:

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants do not last forever. If you decide to get breast implants, you will likely need additional surgeries on your breasts over your lifetime due to rupture, other complications (for example, capsular contracture, breast pain), or unacceptable cosmetic outcomes (for example, asymmetry, unsatisfactory style/size, wrinkling/rippling).

For information on rates of complications for approved breast implants, see the Labeling for Approved Breast Implants on the FDA site.

Good luck!

There are various answers to the question of implant longevity.  This is because there are multiple manufacturers, multiple sytle, shapes, uses, etc.  It is reasonable to expect that the implant should last about 15 years (rough estimate).

If the implants are in tact, not giving you problems need not be replaced.  As long as you are happy with your result, leave them alone. 

It is important to follo up with your well woman exam as recommended by your gyn, and also to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

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