How Long Do Breast Implants Last? Do They Expire?

One of the most popular cosmetic procedures, breast augmentation leaves a great number of questions in its wake; one of the most significant is about how long these implants last. Whether you are thinking of getting implants for the first time or have already got them, their lifespan will form a vital part of the decisions you will make about your body. 

So, if you’re new or looking for breast implants in Mumbai, you may be wondering how long they last. Are they perishable? Let’s break it down.

Breast Implant Longevity: Things to Know

The lifespan of the breast implant depends entirely on the individual, the type of implant, and even lifestyle. The average lifespan of breast implants ranges from 10 to 20 years but could be longer depending on the time that complications do not occur. 

Most manufacturers give a warranty lasting approximately 10 years, but this does not necessarily mean that once the warranty expires, the implant will fail. It simply means that some problems such as rupture or capsular contracture (a condition where the tissue surrounding the implant hardens) that might necessitate surgical intervention may occur anytime.

Learn more about breast lift surgery in our guide on Benefits and Insights.

Do Breast Implants Have an Expiration Date?

Technologically, there are no expiration dates on breast implants, after a while they can corrode and need to be replaced or removed so they don’t create other problems within the body; 

Therefore, they are not suitable for extended periods of time in the human body. Implants are available in two primary forms, saline-filled and silicone gel-filled. Both are very durable, but like all materials, they can corrode. 

A number of factors contribute to longevity like the general aging process and alteration of tissue, including changes within the breast tissue that can happen over time, as well as life choices, such as smoking.

Removal or replacement  occurs due to the following reasons:

1. Rupture or leakage: Saline implants deflate quickly and are often easy to detect because of the loss of volume of the breast. Silicone implants are also known as “silent ruptures,” which silently leak without an immediate noticeable effect. Such ruptures are usually diagnosed through imaging tests such as MRIs or ultrasounds. Once this happens, an implant replacement is necessary in order to maintain a cosmetic look and keep you healthy.
   
2. Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue, which will develop naturally around an implant, becomes hard and tight; the implant is therefore uncomfortable and forces the breast to take on an unnatural shape. It is a very common reason women require further surgery.

3. Aesthetic changes: The skin and other breast tissue tend to droop because of age, changes in weight, or even pregnancy. These also will change the appearance of the breasts so that sometimes they look less firm than before. So a woman may want to either have them revised with implants or have them lifted for a more aesthetic appeal.

4. Lifestyle or change in preferences: Changes in personal preferences with regard to matters of lifestyle, the changes within the beauty world, or generally may be a reason for the desire to be changed either in terms of size, shape, or type. A few women opt to reduce the size or even extract the implants after some time.

When Do You Know Your Breast Implants Require Replacement

There are various signs that indicate your breast implants may require some attention. Common indicators include:

• Pain or tenderness not routinely felt in the breast region
• Change in shape or size of the breast
• Not usually lumpy or firm to the touch in the tissue of the breast
• There is an asymmetry between the breasts
• There is rippling visible at the implant-posterior plane, and also at the skin level

If you feel any of the above, then do visit a board-certified plastic surgeon in Mumbai to diagnose the condition of the implants and if surgery has to be done to replace it.

Regular Monitoring Is the Key 

Breast implants, especially silicone ones, are supposed to be monitored periodically in case of silent rupture problems. The FDA advises the women to have an MRI three years after the first implant and then two years from that time so that the silent rupture may be checked upon. For this purpose, the general follow-up with the plastic surgeon is very crucial so that the health and beauty of the implants are ensured.

How long do breast implants last in Mumbai?

If you are thinking of getting breast implants in Mumbai, then be aware that the city has many highly skilled plastic surgeons who work towards giving long-lasting and aesthetically good results. However, regardless of whatever region or town you go to, you must understand that implants don’t last for a lifetime. You will have to replace it after 10 to 20 years, depending on your body and its lifestyle.

More importantly, surgical techniques and implant materials continue to evolve so that newer implants are generally stronger than older models. Still, the likelihood that weight gain, pregnancy, and the inevitable aging process will factor into their lifespan is good.

Conclusion

Breast implants do not have a sell-by date, but neither are they lifetime devices. On average, implants in the breast last between 10 to 20 years but can be relatively shorter or longer than that depending on several factors. For that reason, one should find a plastic surgeon they can go to for follow-up and check-ups to ensure their implants remain in good condition over time.