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doctor holding breast implant

It is a common misconception that breast implants last only ten years. In actuality, ten years is the average length of time women decide to keep their initial implants. In fact, if you are happy with the way your breasts look and there are no complications after ten years, most plastic surgeons would not recommend implant replacement.

The majority of the time, women choose to replace their implants simply because they wish to change their implant size or type. In just the last few years, we have seen many advances in implant technology that provide a lower rupture rate, less chance of capsular contracture, and a more natural look and feel. Some women choose breast revision surgery only because they want these advantages.

However, women also get their implants replaced due to complications. Although complications are rare, as with any surgical procedure, they can and do occur. Fortunately, all three breast implant manufacturers offer warranties on their implant devices. If you experience implant rupture with Sientra® implants within 10 years after surgery, you could receive up to $3,600 toward corrective surgery. Mentor® and Allergan have limited warranties as well, offering lifetime product replacement in certain cases of implant rupture or deflation.

As long as you have no signs of capsular contracture, deflation, or other problematic issues with your breasts, your implants may never need to be replaced. It is still very important for anyone who has had breast augmentation to get a regular mammogram or MRI in order to detect any problems. This is especially true if you have silicone-gel implants. With saline implants, a rupture is immediately noticeable with a deflated breast. Because of the thicker silicone filling, rupture with silicone implants is more difficult to detect and may not cause any symptoms.

Dr. Pollack is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed breast augmentation in the San Diego area for over 20 years. If you are interested in this procedure, please schedule a consultation by calling (888) 600-0683. For your convenience, you may also fill out our online contact form.