Breast augmentation is one of the most widely performed surgeries across the country, with hundreds of thousands of patients opting for the procedure each year. For most, breast augmentation is a fairly straightforward procedure and free of complications, though it is important to understand that there are some potential risks of breast augmentation, like with almost any surgery. Again, however, the majority of patients who choose a highly qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon to perform their breast augmentation enjoy a positive experience and are happy with their results.
Without unwanted side effects of breast augmentation, including complications like capsular contracture, patients can usually keep their breast implants for up to 10 – 15 years or longer before it may be time for breast implant replacement, revision, or removal. Here, double board-certified plastic surgeon and Beverly Hills breast augmentation specialist Dr. Andre Marshall, along with the team at Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery, share helpful information on how long breast implants last in the average case, how you can maintain breast implants for as long as possible, and other important considerations regarding the lifespan of breast implants.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not designed to be lifelong devices, though most patients can expect to keep their original breast implants for up to a decade —and often longer — before it may be time to discuss replacement breast implants, revision of your breast surgery, or even breast implant removal. Although most types of breast implants can last for this period of time, silicone gel implants are often reported to maintain their original shape, size, and look for somewhat longer than saline breast implants, which may show rippling or volume loss earlier.
For patients who experience unwanted complications or side effects with breast implants, however, it may be necessary to remove, revise, or replace breast implants sooner than expected. Some helpful tips for keeping breast implants looking their best for as long as possible include:
- Avoid weight fluctuation
- Wait until you’re done having children and breastfeeding before getting implants
- Wear supportive bras and clothing
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products
- Keep the skin moisturized and protected from the sun
What are the possible complications of breast implants?
Again, breast implant complications are relatively rare, though they can occur. Beyond surgery-related issues, such as adverse reaction to anesthesia or perioperative error, some of the potential complications of breast implants may include:
- Capsular contracture
- Bottoming out
- Implant displacement
- Implant rotation
- Asymmetric breast implants
- Breast implant rupture
- Leak in breast implant
These potential breast implant complications can occur at almost any point after surgery, even years after implants are placed, which may impact if and when your breast augmentation may need to be revised. If you are experiencing any signs of breast implant complications or think you may have a damaged breast implant — or if you have simply had a change of preference since your original surgery — don’t hesitate to reach out to our team to learn more about your options for breast implant revision, removal, or replacement.
Love your curves for the next decade — or longer — with breast implants in Beverly Hills, CA
If you have been thinking about breast augmentation surgery but still have questions about potential complications or the longevity of your results, we can help. To learn more about breast implant expectations and options for surgery, call our team at Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA to schedule your private consultation with double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall today.
