Do Cohesive Gel Breast Implants Require Replacement After 10 Years?

Had my consult with my PS. He said salines could last a lifetime given there are no problems. He said that cohesive gel silicones would require replacement at 10 years. He did not expand on this. I am wondering why at 10 years? Even if there are no apparent problems with the implant do they require replacement? I am concerned about constant screening with silicones and the safety of the implant should it rupture - and not be known. Do Salines drop more over time? 34A w/good tissue.

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by jennymommy in Salmon Arm, BC

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When to replace implants

Whether you have saline or silicone implants, the only reason another surgery is recommended is if you have a problem. It could be a disruption of the shell, infection, capsular contraction or for a size change. So, either could last a lifetime or only a year. You may want to schedule another appointment with your chosen plastic surgeon and have your list of questions to review with him. It is important that you have a good rapport with your... more

George John Alexander, MD

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Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon

Breast implant replacement?

Thank you for the question. Although there is a lot of mis information (myth) regarding breast implant replacement the rule of thumb is: “if it ain't broke don't fix 'em". In other words, if the patient is doing well and has had no problems with her implants (such as leakage, encapsulation, malposition, asymmetry, rippling/palpability, dissatisfaction with size/shape/position etc.) or her breasts (such as cancer, trauma, or change in... more

Do you need to replace implants at 10 years?

You only need to replace implants if they rupture (that is, assuming you are happy with the results, the size is right, and you do not develop a capsular contracture). If all is well, the only indication for replacing your implants is a ruptured or deflated implant which can occur with saline or gel. In fact, saline implants tend to deflate a bit more often, though both saline and gel can last 30 years or more...or rupture after 10. Saline implants let you know when they deflate,... more

Replacing saline and silicone breast implants

You do not have to replace saline or silicone breast implants at ten years. You only have to replace your implants if you are not happy with the size, if they rupture (saline) or if you develop advanced capsular contracture (scar tissue). Time is not a reason to change breast implants. Best wishes, Dr.Bruno