Breast Enlargement - How Long Do Implants Last?

Every day, women are meeting with plastic surgeons to discuss breast enlargement. While there are several questions that often surround the procedure, the most common is often about the length of time that an implant will last. Most realize that the implants are not built to last a lifetime, but they want to get some idea of when they will be coming back to the surgeon for a replacement. Unfortunately, because every person is different, there is no one right answer that will work for everybody. No Expiration Date There is no set expiration date for silicone- or saline-based implants used in a breast enlargement. While they are not built to last a lifetime, there are women that will not need to undergo any type of surgery or maintenance while they have the implants. Others may only last around ten years. It is important to talk to a surgeon about his or her experience when it comes to implants. Problems If a patient experiences problems with her implant, it is important to have a surgeon look at the area right away and determine whether or another operation will be able to maintain the results achieved by the original breast enlargement. One of the most common issues that women experience is a leaking implant. When it is filled with saline, there are typically no adverse effects to the body. It can easily absorb the contents of the implants. Implants that are leaking often have noticeable effects. The area of the past breast enlargement begins to change shape and texture. This could be the result of trauma to the area, but it could also just be the implant wearing out and needing replacement. As soon as you notice any type of change, it is important to contact your plastic surgeon and set up an appointment. Talking to Your Doctor Your physician wants you to understand that your breast enlargement is not designed to last forever. As the body changes and ages, there are effects that cannot be avoided. If you have any concerns about the surgery or how long your results will last, talk to your doctor. You can ask questions about your body type, as well as your lifestyle and get a professional opinion on the expected life of your implants. Remember that no doctor can guarantee that they will last for a certain amount of time. Before undergoing any plastic surgery, be sure to look into all of the available options. With the latest advances in technology, patients are recovering faster with less scarring while the results are lasting longer. Don't let the idea that an implant has a shelf life prevent you from looking into making a change to your physical appearance.