How Long Do Breast Implants Last?


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Breast implants all require replacing at some point, regardless of the type or the individual. The general design of breast implants allows them to endure somewhere between 10 and 25 years before they require replacing. Although this is the average length of implant life, some women may find that they need to have their implants replaced on a much more regular basis.

There are a number of factors that can act to reduce the amount of time an implant can last for. These include:

  • Silicone gel breast implants frequently last longer than saline filled implants. Despite this, the saline form is considerably easier to get replaced.
  • If you are sporty and athletic, then you are at a greater risk of your implants suffering a rupture or seepage.
  • If you suffer from either capsular contraction or infection, you may need to have the implant removed before it's "life" is over.
  • During the introduction of the breast implant, the actual implant may suffer damage. This is often not evident for a long while (months to years) after the procedure has been carried out.
  • Everyday, general deterioration may result in the outer shell of the breast implant tearing and a subsequent leak developing.
  • If you have a saline implant inserted and it is overfilled or underfilled, the structural stability of the implant will be negotiated as well as its lifespan.

By no means are breast implants an everlasting solution; instead it is a way to gain an enhanced breast appearance for an ambiguous period of time. If your cosmetic surgeon is exceedingly skilled and experienced and retains the precise procedures using high-quality implants, then your results should last for a longer period of time. However, there is always a risk - regardless of how good the surgeon is – of your implant failing within the first twelve months.

You should ensure that you discuss the realistic lifespan of your breast implant with your surgeon during your consultation. This will give you a better idea of what you can expect in the future in terms of subsequent surgery.

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