How Long Will My Breast Implants Last? Signs It's Time for a Revision

One of the most common questions women ask when considering breast implants, or if they already have breast implants, is, "When do breast implants need to be replaced?" While breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, there is no specific expiration date for breast implants. Generally speaking, It is recommended that silicone breast implants be surveyed by either MRI or high resolution ultrasound starting at around 5 years after surgery but that can vary based on individual case factors. 

At Plastic Surgery Vegas, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Michael C. Edwards, Dr. Terrence "Terry" Higgins and Dr. Andrew G. Silver help women throughout Las Vegas, NV understand their options for breast augmentation and breast implant replacement or revision. If you're wondering whether your implants should be replaced or simply thinking about a breast augmentation with implants, keep reading to learn more. 

Is there a set timeline for replacing breast implants? 

There are no hard-and-fast guidelines for breast implant revision or replacement,  This doesn't mean you'll be required to replace them within a window in time , but around the 5-year mark, it's a good idea to check in with your plastic surgeon about whether you may need new breast implants. At that point, your body, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences may have shifted, and your implants should be evaluated for structural integrity and overall fit. Routine follow-ups, particularly after the first decade, can also possibly help diagnose an implant that has lost integrity and give you peace of mind. 

How do you know if your breast implant is ruptured or needs replacement? 

Some issues with breast implants are obvious — like visible breast implant rippling, a change in shape, or hardening of the breast — but others are more subtle or internal. For instance, a ruptured saline implant will causes noticeable deflation and asymmetry, while a rupture in a silicone implant can be silent, detectable only through imaging like MRI or ultrasound (performed in our office by the plastic surgeons). Changes to watch for that may indicate you have a compromised silicone breast implant or other type of breast implant complication include:  

• Loss of volume 
• Breast firmness or tightness (capsular contracture)
• Visible asymmetry 
• Shifting implant position 
• Discomfort or pain due to firmness 

Do newer implants last longer than older ones? 

In general, it's widely accepted that advancements in implant technology have led to stronger shells, more cohesive gel fillings, and improved longevity of breast implants. If your implants are five years old or more, and especially if they were placed before certain innovations were available, it is worth exploring a breast implant replacement or revision — even if you haven't had complications or concerns. Upgrading to a newer implant can also offer benefits in feel, longevity, and appearance. 

What happens during a breast implant revision? 

Like your original breast augmentation, breast revision surgery is personalized. by Dr. Edwards, Dr. Higgins and Dr. Silver and they bring decades of combined experience in complex revision cases, offering solutions that may involve:  

• Replacing the implants 
• Changing implant size or profile 
• Correcting malposition 
• Addressing capsular contracture 
• Adding a breast lift for an improved youthful shape  

During your initial consultation, our knowledgeable team will discuss how breast implant removal, replacement, or revision works so you feel comfortable and confident going into this procedure that can help you look and feel like yourself once again. 

Partner with trusted providers for breast implant revision in Las Vegas 

Whether you're approaching the 10-year mark or simply feel it's time for a change, our experienced team at Plastic Surgery Vegas is here to support you. Dr. Michael C. Edwards, Dr. Terrence "Terry" Higgins and Dr. Andrew G. Silver offer individualized breast evaluations and will review possible breast implant revisions using today's most advanced techniques, especially using TouchMD to clearly point out your options for care. If you're ready to explore your options, contact our office in Las Vegas to schedule your private and unhurried consultation.