Implants themselves are not one size fits all and neither are the reasons for needing to replace breast implants. Most silicone and saline implants are approved by the FDA for 10 years or longer without any issues. But if you are considering breast augmentation, it is important to go in with the reality that implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Patients will require implant replacement or removal at some point. 

How often you have to exchange breast implants varies but common reasons include breast implant rupture, implant displacement, implant malfunction, capsular contracture, previous surgical error, wanting a change in aesthetics, a change in lifestyle, or breast implant illness. David W. Allison, MD can offer you a consultation to recommend a removal or exchange of breast implants. For some patients, breast implant replacement helps revitalize and restore a certain look you wish to have, for others they may want to swap out silicone for saline or vice versa. Breasts change overtime whether you have implants or not causing patients to adjust the size and shape of their breasts either with new breast implants or a breast lift. Aside from aesthetic choices, breast implants may require replacement due to adverse signs and symptoms. Breast implant related issues include a deflated implant, asymmetry between the breasts, firmness of the implant, breast tenderness, implant is sitting too high or too low, abnormal shape, or pain, discomfort or loss of sensation. 

Breast implant illness is still considered rare despite becoming more and more common. Frustrating or painful symptoms that may be affecting other parts of the body include brain fog, chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, muscle aches and pains, headaches, skin irritation or rash, hair loss or thinning hair and anxiety. 

Breast implants are still a highly sought after and popular choice of cosmetic surgery. Without any illness related issues or simply wanting a change for personal reasons, patients can expect breast implants to last 10 to 20 years.  It is important to schedule routine checkups with your doctor and to consider revisiting your plastic surgeon annually to be sure your breast implants remain intact and that you remain healthy overall. 

David W. Allison, MD welcomes you to come in to discuss questions like these with our caring and qualified doctors and office staff. To begin, call 703-754-8228 or book your appointment online at WEBSITE.