According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 286,694 women had breast augmentation surgery in 2014 alone. As the statistics show, breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic enhancements in the United States. It’s also one of the most misunderstood, and we’re here to clear some things up.
The Plastic Surgery Channel recently covered the life of breast implants and some things patients will want to consider before going under the knife—and we wanted to add a few extra details.
So, how long do breast implants really last?
Longer Than You Might Think
One of the most persistent myths regarding breast implants is that they will only last a decade—as if these medical devices were programmed to give out at a specific milestone. This misunderstanding likely stems from a combination of the limited warranties placed on implants many years ago, studies which report some increased risk of complication as implants age, and the fact that “ten years” is a nice, though arbitrary, number.
Truthfully, only about 10% of implants experience rupture and 90% of implants are safe for much longer than a decade—and implant manufacturers now offer lifetime warranties on breast implants that cover ruptures.
That being said, it’s not a bad idea to meet with your plastic surgeon around the 10 year mark to have your breasts examined, discuss what you still love or no longer like about your breast implants, and see if you want to take advantage of new options.
Reasons Why You May Consider New Breast Implants
While it is true that breast implants can last decades, there are reasons you may simply want to swap out your breast implants. The most common reason? Normal life changes. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuation, aging, and menopause can all impact your body, including your breasts. Many women find that, over the years, these life events can lead to breast sagging or loss of fullness in the upper breast.
Additionally, you may have changed. Many women’s lifestyles or aesthetic preferences shift over time, leading to a desire to increase or decrease your implant size, or swap your implants out for an alternative shape. Speaking with a surgeon can help you learn more about what your options are now or find out about other breast enhancement procedures to compensate for shape changes that have occurred over the years.
Modern Advancements
Compared to even a decade ago, breast implant technology has made great strides. Silicone breast implants are in their 5th generation of development, and there are more options than ever for safely achieving natural-looking results. Women can choose the right shape, size, profile, texture, material, and firmness to fit their unique needs.
Additionally, breast augmentation techniques are constantly being advanced. Reduced scar visibility, updated implant placement options, and rapid recovery protocols are among the many ways that plastic surgeons have advanced the procedure.
The First Step
If you have breast implants or if you’re simply wanting to research your options for the future, your first step is consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon.
If you’re in New Jersey, Dr. Parker would be happy to discuss the many options available to you during a personalized consultation. Contact us today to get started, or read more about breast implant maintenance on our blog.
To read the full article by The Plastic Surgery Channel, click here.
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