Do Breast Implants Need To Be Replaced?

The question of whether breast implants need to be replaced is a common concern among women who have undergone breast augmentation or plan to do so. Some women are hesitant to undergo surgery, fearing they will need to replace the implants frequently. Others may not be aware of the risks associated with long-term implant use.

The short answer is no; breast implants do not need to be replaced unless they have ruptured or are causing problems such as capsular contracture, which is the hardening of scar tissue around the implant. However, it is important to note that breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, and they may need to be changed at some point in the future.

There are several reasons why women may choose to have their breast implants replaced, even if they are not experiencing any complications. 

• • One of the most typical reasons is to change the size or shape of their breasts. Over time, a woman’s body may change, and her breast size and shape preferences may also change. In these cases, replacing breast implants can help achieve the desired result.
  • Another reason women may opt to have their breast implants replaced is to update their type of implant. Breast implant technology has advanced significantly over the years, and newer implants may offer better results, feel more natural, and have a lower risk of complications than older implants.

As previously mentioned, breast implants do not need to be replaced unless they are causing problems. However, it is recommended that women with breast implants have regular check-ups with their plastic surgeons to ensure their implants are in good condition and functioning properly.

• • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that women with silicone gel-filled breast implants have an MRI three years after the implant surgery and then every two years after that to check for implant rupture. If a rupture is detected, the implant should be replaced.
  • Women with saline breast implants do not need to have routine MRI scans but should also have regular check-ups with their plastic surgeons to monitor the condition of their implants.

While breast implants do not necessarily need to be replaced, there are certain circumstances in which replacement may be necessary.

• Rupture

One of the main reasons for implant replacement is implant rupture. If a saline implant cracks, the body will absorb the saline solution, and the implant will deflate. 

On the other hand, if a silicone implant ruptures, the gel may stay in the surrounding tissue or migrate to other parts of the body, which may require immediate attention. Therefore, it is essential for women with silicone implants to undergo an MRI every few years to check for implant ruptures.

• Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a condition in which the scar tissue around the implant hardens and contracts, resulting in discomfort and distortion of the breast shape. If the contracture is severe, surgery may be necessary to replace the implant.

• Cosmetic Reasons

Women may also choose to have their implants replaced for cosmetic reasons, such as changing the size, shape, or type of implant. Over time, the body may change, and the original implant may no longer suit the woman’s preferences.

As with any surgery, breast implant replacement surgery carries risks. These risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, and anesthesia complications. There is also a risk of implant rupture during surgery, which may require additional surgery to repair or replace the implant.

Additionally, breast implant replacement surgery may be more complex than the initial implant surgery, as the surgeon must remove the old implant and any scar tissue that has formed around it before inserting the new implant. This can augment the risk of complications and may also result in a longer recovery time.

With over a decade of experience performing breast implants in Colombia, including replacements, Dr. Reyes has established himself as a leading plastic surgeon. He works closely with his patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their individual needs and desires. If you are looking for a reliable professional for safe and optimal results, visit Dr. Camilo Reyes’s clinic for breast augmentation Colombia.