How often should breast implants be replaced?

Cosmetic surgery, especially breast implant surgery, is a very popular option for women who want to look and feel good in their bodies. Irrespective of whether it is reconstruction following surgery or cosmetic enhancement, many people have experienced an overwhelmingly positive change with this surgery. However, the question asked the most is how often do they need a replacement. Since you may be planning for breast implant surgery in Thane, you need to know how long the implants would last and when a replacement might be in order.

The Lifespan of Breast Implants

Breast implants aren't lifetime devices but long-lasting ones that can last for a long time, but their span is not infinite. Generally, most implants are expected to last between 10 and 20 years; however, the range may vary because some may last longer, and others could be shorter. Replacement might be necessary for several reasons: depending upon the type of the implant; individual body response; or even a few unexpected complications, such as rupture or capsular contracture. The interaction of your body with the silicon implant is chemically unique. So exact time for replacement cannot be accurately predictable. 

If you are searching for the top plastic surgeon in Thane who can guide you in making the right choice, you must understand that the necessity of the change would not automatically come along with a specific time schedule. Instead, it would depend on how your body undergoes these changes over time.

Why Do Breast Implants Need Replacement?

Most important fact to acknowledge is that breast undergoes atrophy and aging changes. Every breast surgery is dynamic. So a regular follow up with your plastic surgeon is a good practice. You should also conduct a breast self examination every month after your period for the month is over. If an implant is soft and in a good position, it can be left in place indefinitely. However, the implant shell begins to weaken after about ten years. For this reason, the risk of rupture increases after this time. If an implant ruptures, replacement is recommended.

Rupture or Leakage:

Intracapsular rupture refers to a rupture that occurs within the fibrous capsule, whereas extracapsular rupture refers to silicone that extends beyond the fibrous capsule.  

An extracapsular rupture results in extravasation of silicone gel into the surrounding tissues, often with an infiltrative pattern leading to significant local tissue reaction and scar formation.

Generally, over time, breast implants might rupture and, as a result, leak because of possible leakage of silicone due to rupture.

• Silicone implants are also known as "silent ruptures," which silently leak without an immediate noticeable effect. If you notice change in the shape or feel of the implant you should consult your plastic surgeon who will guide you further.

Such ruptures are usually diagnosed through imaging tests such as MRIs or special ultrasounds. Once this happens, an implant replacement is necessary in order to maintain a cosmetic look and keep you healthy.

Capsular Contracture:

At this stage, the scar tissue that is typically formed as a result of the implant becomes tight and fibrotic, thus leading to soreness and unnatural alteration of breast configuration. Capsular contracture is so painful if it is severe enough, and it may lead to the removal and replacement of the implants. Although it is one of those complications at low risk, the continuous monitoring is always on this possible complication. Fortunately our Indian patients do not have this problem often or have only very mild type–Grade I is commoner.

Aesthetically Altered:

However, the breasts can change shape because of weight gain and loss and some other lifestyle changes due to aging of the body or after pregnancy. You may wish to have your implants replaced if you feel that the desired size or shape is not the same or that there is significant change in the natural breast tissue. The main reason women have their implants replaced are when, after a few years, the desired aesthetic appearance is no longer sustainable.

Your implants are causing ripples:

Another reason you may want a breast implant replacement is rippling. Ripples can be visible on implants, especially in patients with thin tissues.

This can give some women a sense of self-consciousness and a lack of self-confidence. Rippling can be seen with silicone implants that are in patient’s body for really long time. The newest generation of implants has a more cohesive gel and are filled more fully which has cut down on the amount of rippling that now occurs. Discuss all your options with your surgeon before any surgery. At LaserCosmesis, we use only the top quality implants. You will get the implant label and registration papers at the time of discharge. Do preserve these papers carefully for future reference.

Advances in Implant Technology:

Although their designs have changed with time, newer implants are stronger, safer, and more natural-looking than the older types. If you have implants that are well over a decade old, you may even consider getting the latest implant type that can better support your body and lifestyle. The smooth and nanotexture implants are less likely to leak.

Signs That You May Need to Replace Breast Implants

In fact, you have to keep communicating with your surgeon following the placement of your breast implants. You would need to attend follow-up appointments properly so that the status of your implants is appropriately and regularly checked. Here are some symptoms which tell that you will need to replace your implants:

• Alteration in the size, shape, or contour of the breast
• Discomfort or pain in the breast
• The implant becomes hard or disfigured
• Rippling or other lumps on the skin's surface
• Rupture and leakage risk

If you experience any of the above signs or are in doubt about your breast implants, then it is always wise to request an opinion from the best plastic surgeon in Thane so that you can be evaluated.

Extend Life Breast Implants

Although there is an eventual need to change them, you can prolong your life and prevent one complication by taking some measures:

• monitoring them regularly
• proper healthy lifestyle
• choosing high-quality implants from the very beginning. At LaserCosmesis only high quality implants are used and labels shared.

Regular Check-ups: Be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon on a regular basis for the scheduled check-up. Your plastic surgeon may conduct imaging tests to monitor how your implants are doing and catch the issue when it is still in its initial stages.

Healthy Lifestyle: Having a stable weight, and a healthy lifestyle helps reduce complications like rippling or capsular contracture that may lead to possible replacement of the implant.

Choosing the Right Surgeon: An experienced surgeon will ensure that the first surgery is performed in the right manner, thus reducing the possibility of early complications. When choosing a plastic surgeon in Thane, seek one who has expertise in breast implant surgery.