How to Tell When Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced
Enhancing one’s bust with breast augmentation can provide many women with a boost in self-confidence, but it is important to remember that breast implants are not lifetime devices. By understanding when your implants may need to be replaced, you can maintain your desired look and minimize the risk of complications.
To provide an overview of the key signs and considerations for breast implant replacement, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Russell Babbitt, has detailed what you should look for.
- Implant Age: Breast implants typically last between 10 to 15 years. Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon are essential for monitoring their condition over time.
- Changes in Appearance: If you notice changes like asymmetry, rippling, wrinkling, or shifts in implant position, you may need a replacement. Implant rupture or leakage can also cause noticeable changes in shape and size, especially with saline implants.
- Physical Discomfort: Breast pain or discomfort can signal an issue with your implants. This includes persistent pain and the development of hard, tight scar tissue known as capsular contracture.
- Desire for a Different Size or Type: Your personal preferences may change over time, and you may eventually want a different size or type of implants. Some women choose to later replace their implants based on their current lifestyle or aesthetic goals.
- Concerns of BIA-ALCL: Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of lymphoma that can develop around breast implants, particularly those with a textured surface. While the FDA doesn’t recommend replacement unless you have symptoms of BIA-ALCL, you can discuss any concerns you may have with your plastic surgeon and determine if replacement is right for you.
While some signs of needing breast implant revision may be obvious, others may not be as noticeable. By regularly attending regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon, you can ensure your implants are in good condition.
For more personalized advice about replacing breast implants, please contact Plastic Surgery of Southern New England.
