Breast implants are popular among women to enhance the appearance of the breasts. While breast implants are long-lasting and should withstand 10 years at a minimum, they will eventually need to be replaced. It’s important to know when your implants need a replacement for both cosmetic and medical reasons.
Reasons for Breast Implant Replacement
There are many reasons why patients may have their implants replaced. Sometimes, patients undergo implant replacement because they want to alter the size or shape of their breasts. However, implants may also need to be replaced to ensure the safety of the patient. Implant rupture and hardening are complications of breast implants that would create the need for a replacement.
Implant leaking and rupture
Both saline and silicone gel breast implants can rupture. Silicone gel implant ruptures tend to be more difficult to identify, as the breast may keep its shape. In those with saline implants, a rupture will cause the implant to deflate, changing the shape of the breasts. In either case, a breast implant rupture may cause pain and swelling, as well as a change in how the breasts feel.
Hardening
Also called capsular contracture, hardening occurs when the breast capsule around the implant hardens. This can cause the breast to have a firm feel, potentially leading to discomfort and/or an abnormal appearance of the breast.
The risk of complications from breast implants increases the longer you have the implants. At the time of the initial breast implant surgery, Dr. Adams will discuss the expected timeframe that you can expect to have before needing to replace the implants. If you’ve already undergone breast implant surgery and have had your implants for a while, Dr. Adams can determine whether it’s a good time to replace them. If the implants are causing you any discomfort, it’s likely time for new ones.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about if it’s time for breast implant replacement.
