How Long Does a Saline Breast Implant Last?

Saline breast implants do not have a specific lifespan.  The most common cause for implant deflation is a fold or crease failure, which results from a permanent folding of the implant and eventual fatigue of the silicone shell.  This was much more common years ago when the implants had a lower fill volume recommended by the manufacturer than they do today.  The majority of saline breast implants today are filled to the "maximal volume" as recommended by the manufacturer.  This reduces wrinkles and creases in the implant shell, which has improved the appearance and performance of the implants.  I have many patients with saline implants that are still intact after 20 years.  If the implant isn't leaking, and there are no other problems, there is no reason to replace them.  For patients with saline implants that are more than 10 years old, I generally recommend a replacement of both implants if one should need replacing.  Since the saline implants are filled with sterile IV saline, there is no concern about safety if the implant leaks, since your body will absorb the saline solution. In over 20 years of experience with saline implants, my patients have less than a 2% deflation rate.  Hope this is helpful. 

Implants can last indefinitely, but most women should plan to have some type of surgery every 10 to 15 years. This may include a size change, changing from saline to silicone, or replacement after rupture. Saline implants have a 10% risk of rupture over 10 years. The latest silicone-gel implants have a 2.5% rupture risk over nine years. Research has shown that saline and silicone breast implants have an acceptable safety profile. Make sure to find a board-certified plastic surgeon that you contrast. They will be happy to talk with you about breast implants, the procedure, and the recovery.

I know of several women who received implants and have never had to change them. It is a myth that implants must be changed every 10 years. Generally, if you don't have a problem with your implants and haven't noticed any pain or a change in appearance, then there is no need to replace them.  You should visit your surgeon or doctor regularly so that they may also examine you to make sure your implants are in good condition.