What Is the Importance of Breast Implant Replacement?

Even in the absence of breast implant complications – like rupture or bottoming out – it may still be necessary to have your breast implants replaced. In fact, all women whose breast implants are 15 – 20 years old (or more) should consider the importance of breast implant revision and/or replacement. Here, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Roderick M. Urbaniak of Urbaniak Plastic Surgery in Largo, FL discusses if and when breast implants should be replaced and why replacing breast implants is critical for the health, safety, and appearance of the patient.

Why do breast implants need to be replaced?

If you’re like most people, you may think that breast implants only need to be replaced when there is a problem or complication. While most women do not experience complications associated with breast augmentation surgery, they can occur. Some of the most common complications that are possible with breast implants and may lead to the need for breast implant removal or replacement include:

• Capsular contracture
• Breast implant rupture (saline or silicone implants)
• Implant displacement
• Bottoming out
• Symmastia
• Double bubble
• Breast ptosis (sagging)
• Breast implant illness

Additionally, some patients simply have a change in their personal preferences and/or lifestyle and choose to have their breast implants removed or replaced. For example, some women decide to have their saline implants replaced with silicone implants for a more natural look and feel, while other women choose to have their implants removed altogether in favor of a smaller bust.

How long do breast implants last?

Technically speaking, breast implants can “last” for decades. However, that does not mean it is safe and appropriate to retain the same set of implants for that long. About 15 – 20 years after an initial breast augmentation with implants, patients are at an elevated risk for certain cosmetic and functional complications.

Do you ever have to replace breast implants?

Although choosing to remove or replace your breast implants often comes down to personal preference, there are some scenarios when it may be necessary and/or recommended to pursue breast implant replacement. Generally speaking, all women whose breast implants are at least 15 – 20 years old should consider having their breast implants replaced for the following reasons:

• Risk of breast implant rupture increases after 15 – 20 years
• Risk of complications during breast surgery increase with implants 15 – 20+ years old
• Most breast implant warranties expire before or around this time
• Having breast implants for 15 – 20 years can exacerbate breast ptosis and signs of aging, which may be corrected with breast implant replacement and/or breast lift surgery

How does breast implant replacement work?

The approach used during breast implant replacement surgery will depend on a number of factors, including the reason for replacing the implants, the age of the implants, and others. In many cases, the original surgical incision can be used during surgery to avoid additional scarring. For patients who require a breast lift combined with breast implant replacement, however, additional incisions will be needed. Still, Dr. Urbaniak takes great care to minimize visible scarring as much as possible. If you suspect that you may need new breast implants, or if your implants are 15 – 20 years old or more, we can help you restore the integrity and appearance of your implants with breast implant replacement surgery.

Don’t ignore the importance of breast implant replacement in Largo, FL

Even if it’s been 20 years since your breast augmentation and you have never had a problem with your breast implants, it is still important to understand that your aged implants may be placing you at higher risk for future complications. To learn more about the importance of having your breast implants replaced, call Urbaniak Plastic Surgery in Largo, FL to schedule your one-on-one consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon and breast enhancement expert Dr. Roderick M. Urbaniak today.