The Longevity Of Breast Implants

There are a lot of questions to ask when considering a breast augmentation:

• “How long do breast implants last?”
• “Will I need to replace my implants?”
• “How often do breast implants leak?”
• “How will my breast implants look when I’m older?”

These are all important questions to ask, and we highly suggest you ask your cosmetic surgeon before making your decision.  The answer in short to all of these question is:  it depends!

The longevity of breast implants depend on the patient’s body and lifestyle as well as the surgeon’s technique and type of implant. Dr. Duboys has been performing breast augmentation for over 30 years to the  women in the Long Island,  NY area . We’ve compiled some advice for patients deciding on  breast implants.

Will I Need To Replace My Breast Implants?

The idea that breast implants will need to be replaced ever few years is a myth, and it keeps many women from choosing to undergo the procedure. Breast implants last longer than you think, which means there is no reason to plan on having major surgery every few years for as long as you wish to have breast implants.

The most important thing to remember about implants is that you have them, and that you will probably require one or two “follow-up” surgeries during your lifetime. There is no guaranteed “lifespan” of breast implants, however, many surgeons will agree that women will  need their breast implants replaced within 10 years of the initial surgery. Typically, saline implants have a 10%/year failure rate while silicone implants should last twice as long!

What Happens to Breast Implants As You Age?

The most common reason why patients choose to replace their implants is implant leakage.  It doesn’t matter whether your breasts are natural or augmented,  your breasts remain  subject to the realities of gravity, aging and the weakening of connective tissue – also the effects of motherhood.

Age related changes often include:

• Breast sagging
• Size change due to hormone fluctuations
• Visible ripping of implants (seen primarily in saline implants)

Women who have breast augmentation surgery before childbirth may find that their bust may change in size and shape.

Speak With Your Cosmetic Surgeon

It is important to discuss all questions and concerns with your cosmetic surgeon before you finalize  your decision to get breast implants.  Dr. Elliot Duboys has been a leader in cosmetic and plastic surgery care in the Long Island, Nassau & Suffolk County NY area for over 30 years.  If you would like to schedule a breast augmentation consultation, please contact us at our Huntington, NY office today.