How Do I Know When My Breast Implants Need Replacing?

One of the questions patients have when considering breast augmentation is if they will need to be replaced and how often to replace breast implants. Some consider replacement of breast implants to be a normal part of getting them in the first place while others may not even think about the issue.

When to Replace Breast Implants

No specific rules exist for when breast implants should be replaced, but there are guidelines from organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Some patients will need to have them replaced around 10 years after initial surgery while others may want them replaced sooner or not at all. The bottom line for this type of surgery and knowing how often to replace breast implants? Have them replaced when they no longer work or look the way they should — and especially if they start to cause problems for you.

Do Breast Implants NEED to be Replaced?

The short answer to this question is: Maybe. While this might sound mysterious, the truth is that not every patient will need to have their implants replaced. There is no expiration date on the implants, but there is also no lifetime guarantee. Studies show that implants may last between 10 and 20 years, which is when the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends having them replaced.

On the other hand, the patient may decide to have them replaced if the breasts have started sagging due to weight changes or age. With breast revision, you can have this area lifted again to improve the appearance of your chest.

How Do I Know When My Breast Implants Need Replacing?

You may develop signs that indicate you need to have the breast implants removed and replaced. One of the most noticeable signs is known as capsular contracture — that’s scar tissue that has hardened around the implants. Most of the time, the scar tissue is soft and doesn’t create any issues, but sometimes it hardens and causes discomfort. You may feel pain and tenderness in the breasts as well as tightness, or abnormal changes in the way the breasts look.

Other signs to look out for that will help you know when to replace breast implants include:

• Shrinking or change in size: If the size of the breast shrinks dramatically, it may indicate that the implant has ruptured and needs to be replaced. You may feel numbness or burning as well as tingling, swelling, pain, or tenderness.
• Wrinkling or rippling: Sometimes the implant can develop a wrinkle or ripple, which may be felt or even seen through the skin. While this situation doesn’t cause pain or other issues, you may want to have the implant replaced.
• Shift in implant placement: Changes in the appearance or placement of the breasts may cause you to want the implants replaced. Many women notice a difference in their breasts from weight gain or loss and aging, which causes them to sag or the nipples to turn in different directions. They often want the implants replaced to improve the appearance of the breasts.

If you’re questioning whether it’s time for breast implant removal, you can speak with our team for advice in making the right decision. We can examine your implants and work with you on a solution to whatever issue you’re having.

When to Replace Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants only need to be replaced if they cause problems. If the saline breast implant ruptures, it becomes necessary to have it removed. A tear or hole may occur, which will cause the implant to deflate just like a balloon. The saline leaks out of the implant where it is absorbed by the body. Once the saline has leaked out, it will be obvious that there is a problem because the breast will look very different from the other one.

When to Replace Silicone Breast Implants

Just like with saline implants, silicone implants need to be replaced when they rupture. However, it can be more difficult to know when this happens. Unlike with saline implants, the silicone gel doesn’t get absorbed back into the body. The gel is thicker than saline and will often remain in the implant or around the scar tissue.

Ruptures of silicone implants are often referred to as silent ruptures because they may be unnoticed. The majority of women won’t feel anything or notice any symptoms. However, they may experience a change in breast size or sensation, knots in the breast, pain, swelling, tingling, burning, numbness, and an uneven appearance. It’s a good idea to proactively schedule annual or bi-annual check-ins with your doctor to keep an eye on any potential issues with your silicone implants 

How Often Do Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced?

The bottom line is there is no written rule for when to replace breast implants. The decision to remove or replace them is highly individual, and depends on many factors — typically when issues arise, or when they no longer hold their appearance. Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a triple-board certified plastic surgeon who has been helping patients with breast lifts and implant replacements for more than 20 years.

If you’re concerned about your implants and are considering having them replaced, or want to learn more about breast augmentation procedures, reach out today! Contact us online or by phone to set up a free, discreet consultation.