What is the procedure for replacing implants? I have had my saline implants for over 15 yrs. How long is the expected time period before you need to replace them? Is the procedure more painful or difficult than the original implant? I have a lot of rippling, even though I went under the muscle. My bags are textured, I believe. I also think that they may have loss some of their initial volume. Can you describe the average "life" of an implant, the replacement procedure and any new advancements in the last year or two? Thank you
Answer: How long do breast implants last? With modern implants, the advice is very clear: only replace the implants if there is a problem or if you chose to do so for aesthetic reasons. Having said that, implants are after a synthetic product so, in the absence of any issues, it is sensible to have them checked at 10 years with an MRI. If they are fine and if you remain symptom free, they can then be checked every 5 years after that and only replaced as and when needed.
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Answer: How long do breast implants last? With modern implants, the advice is very clear: only replace the implants if there is a problem or if you chose to do so for aesthetic reasons. Having said that, implants are after a synthetic product so, in the absence of any issues, it is sensible to have them checked at 10 years with an MRI. If they are fine and if you remain symptom free, they can then be checked every 5 years after that and only replaced as and when needed.
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Answer: Replacing Saline Implants Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and their longevity typically ranges from 8 to 15 years. While this can vary, saline implants often deflate due to factors like tissue in-growth, trauma, or folds that stress the outer shell. When this occurs, removal and replacement are generally straightforward procedures. Silicone implants, which are more cohesive and less prone to deflation, offer a longer-lasting alternative, reducing issues like rippling. The newer "gummy bear" implants, made of cohesive silicone gel, are even less likely to cause issues such as rupture or deflation and tend to feel more natural compared to saline options. If you experience deflation, rippling, or simply wish to change the size or type of your implants, replacement surgery is a relatively simple outpatient procedure. Surgeons should discuss both saline and silicone implant options and surgical approaches. In cases of implant failure, replacing both implants can help to achieve improved symmetry and results. The procedure to exchange implants is generally easier and quicker than the initial surgery, with a similar recovery time. It is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who can customize your surgical plan and determine the best technique for you based on your individual anatomy and goals. Dr. Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS Harvard, Johns Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Educated Double Fellowship Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon New York, New York
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Answer: Replacing Saline Implants Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and their longevity typically ranges from 8 to 15 years. While this can vary, saline implants often deflate due to factors like tissue in-growth, trauma, or folds that stress the outer shell. When this occurs, removal and replacement are generally straightforward procedures. Silicone implants, which are more cohesive and less prone to deflation, offer a longer-lasting alternative, reducing issues like rippling. The newer "gummy bear" implants, made of cohesive silicone gel, are even less likely to cause issues such as rupture or deflation and tend to feel more natural compared to saline options. If you experience deflation, rippling, or simply wish to change the size or type of your implants, replacement surgery is a relatively simple outpatient procedure. Surgeons should discuss both saline and silicone implant options and surgical approaches. In cases of implant failure, replacing both implants can help to achieve improved symmetry and results. The procedure to exchange implants is generally easier and quicker than the initial surgery, with a similar recovery time. It is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who can customize your surgical plan and determine the best technique for you based on your individual anatomy and goals. Dr. Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS Harvard, Johns Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Educated Double Fellowship Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon New York, New York
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August 23, 2023
Answer: It is recommended that breast implants should be exchanged every 10 to 20 years Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Realself100 Surgeon
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August 23, 2023
Answer: It is recommended that breast implants should be exchanged every 10 to 20 years Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Realself100 Surgeon
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May 21, 2020
Answer: Averaged 'Life' of a breast implant A good quality implant tends to be long-lasting. The lifespan of breast Implants is not known, however the warranty from most implant companies is 10 years. We have had patients who have needed their implants to be replaced sooner and patients who have had trouble free implants and not replaced them for more than 15 years. Implants will last for varying durations in different people. The complications of implants include rupture and capsular contracture that do play a part in the life of the implant.
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May 21, 2020
Answer: Averaged 'Life' of a breast implant A good quality implant tends to be long-lasting. The lifespan of breast Implants is not known, however the warranty from most implant companies is 10 years. We have had patients who have needed their implants to be replaced sooner and patients who have had trouble free implants and not replaced them for more than 15 years. Implants will last for varying durations in different people. The complications of implants include rupture and capsular contracture that do play a part in the life of the implant.
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March 1, 2020
Answer: Breast implant lifespan Hi, thank you for your questions. Breast implant lifespan is variable and revisional surgery after 10 - 15 years is usually due to implant rupture (deflation in the case of saline implants), capsular contracture (which can vary from the rippling you describe to hardening which is palpable or visible) or malposition which is implant displacement. I would recommend consulting your surgeon if you experience these issues and regular imaging with ultrasound studies. Where no significant issues are identified, there is no requirement for revisional surgery. Best wishes.
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March 1, 2020
Answer: Breast implant lifespan Hi, thank you for your questions. Breast implant lifespan is variable and revisional surgery after 10 - 15 years is usually due to implant rupture (deflation in the case of saline implants), capsular contracture (which can vary from the rippling you describe to hardening which is palpable or visible) or malposition which is implant displacement. I would recommend consulting your surgeon if you experience these issues and regular imaging with ultrasound studies. Where no significant issues are identified, there is no requirement for revisional surgery. Best wishes.
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