How long do breast implants last?

With many of the original formulations of the implant shells (which are silicone regardless of whether you have silicone implants or saline implants) the quoted amount of time was an average of 10-15 years. This number was based on reoperation rates and it is important to remember that these re-operation rates... more

For many patients, breast implants provide years of trouble-free satisfaction.  It is not unusual to find patients who have had their breast implants for ten, fifteen, or even twenty or more years, with no apparent problems. However, breast implants are mechanical devices which cannot be expected to last... more

I have seen a patient with 34 year old saline implants. If she had followed the "urban myth" that they need to be exchanged every 10 years she would have had 4 sets by now but only needed the first ones. If you are happy with the look, size, and feel of your implants and if they are intact, leave them alone.... more

There is probably no reason for concern. Breast implants do not need to be repalced at a certain time. They may last 10 or 30 years. As long as you are happy with the shape and softness you can wait. Having said that, and knowing that they have been in for almost 25 years,  I would meet with your origianl... more

The short answer to your question is no. While we all counsel women interested in breast augmentation that there is a possibility that they would need them exchanged at some point in their lives, there are certainly women who do not ever need them replaced. If you have no cosmetic issues with the implants,... more

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... more

To think, it was futuristic to George Orwell and now 1984 is 24 years behind us.  Breast implants can, and sometimes do, last that long.  I council my patients that all implants have a life expectancy, which on average is between 10 and 15 years.  This is only an average, so some implants will... more

Most plastic surgeons believe that if an older breast implant is not causing a specific problem or is not known to be leaking, it should be left alone. If you are happy with the breast appearance the implants are likely perfectly good. You need to have your routine mammograms that you have hopefully been... more

10/20 as the other plastic surgeons have said, if they are doing well, then leave them alone. if they are silicone implants, you MAY want to consider having an MRI to see if there is a leak. however almost certainly many of the women in other countries who have had their silicone implants for many years, have... more

Hello, Older generation silicone gel implants after 20 years have about a 95% likelihood of rupture. You probably want to get an evaluation by a good plastic surgeon to help guide you. Maybe an MRI would be useful, but an evaluation is a good place to start.   Best Regards,   John Di Saia MD