Lifespan of Breast Implants | John Park MD Plastic Surgery Irvine

While breast implants do have the possibility of lasting a lifetime, most manufacturers do not consider or advise that they are ‘lifetime devices’. Breast implants are designed to be highly durable and long-lasting. In some cases they will need to be replaced within the first couple of years after surgery, while others can last as long as 25 years. In general though, manufacturers of breast implants say the products should last about 10-15 years, on average.

The most common reason for replacing old breast implants is a leak or rupture and they “expire” when you have a reason to have them removed and/or replaced. The type of breast implant you have will impact the appearance of your breasts after a rupture.

When saline breast implants rupture, they will deflate and the sterile saline solution will be safely absorbed by your body. However, this will create an imbalanced breast appearance that clearly signals it is time to replace your implants.

The cohesive silicone gel used in modern silicone breast implants will maintain their shape in the event of a rupture, making it much more difficult to recognize that it is time to have them replaced. For this reason, it is recommended that you undergo an MRI every few years to make sure your implants have not ruptured.

Breast Augmentation Consultation | Dr. John Park Newport Beach, CA

Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. John Park specializes in breast augmentation and breast implant surgeries for patients in Irvine, Newport Beach, and greater Orange County. If you want to learn more, please contact our office and schedule a consultation to review your unique situation and aesthetic goals.