How Long Do Silicone Breast Implants Last?

Taking A Closer Look At The Lifespan Of The Implants We Offer 

To put it clearly: silicone breast implants can potentially last a lifetime if you are happy with them and not experiencing a problem.

But What About The Manufacturer’s 10-Year Warranty?

Most implant manufacturers generally offer a 10-year warranty for patients to replace or remove their implants in the uncommon event that you have an issue — but that does not mean that your breast implants will only last 10 years! You can safely keep your implants well beyond this time frame. If they still look great and you feel great, you’re good to go! 

Our Preferred Manufacturers:

At Donaldson Plastic Surgery, we trust two implant suppliers over any others in the industry based on their commitment to quality, the strength of their warranty programs and the longevity of their great results: Natrelle® and MENTOR®.

• View the Natrelle warranty
• View the MENTOR warranty

When To Get Your Breast Implants Out

There is no standard time at which you need to replace your breast implants. However, there are some circumstances and reasons for which removal or replacement is an appropriate option:

1. Personal choice. If you’re ready to make a change with your body, that is reason enough!
2. If you experience any discomfort related to your breast implants. Your plastic surgeon will help you find the root cause & may recommend implant removal or replacement.
3. Your implant has ruptured. Although the likelihood is very low that you will experience a ruptured silicone implant, it is possible.

Signs & Symptoms Of A Ruptured Silicone Breast Implant

Silicone breast implants tend to keep a decent amount of their shape in the event of a rupture, which makes initial detection a bit more difficult. In fact, they’re often referred to as a “Silent Rupture.” These events are not considered medical emergencies and most individuals face no symptoms or side effects, but they should seek the recommendation of a medical professional. 

What To Watch Out For:

• A slight change in breast shape
• Hardening and/or lumps 
• Change in position
• Rippling 
• Pain, soreness and/or tenderness 

The Role Of Routine Breast Exams

Yearly clinical breast exams are a great way to ensure that you remain in good health. A primary care physician can help detect the early signs of a silicone breast implant rupture. Early detection can help prevent additional discomfort and potential scarring. 

We recommend that each of our patients have their first ultrasound or MRI 5 to 6 years after the initial surgery and then every 2 to 3 years thereafter even if they are experiencing no symptoms of a rupture.

What Happens Next: 

Medical imaging (an MRI or ultrasound) is necessary to confirm a silicone implant rupture. If confirmed, you can choose to replace your implant or have them fully removed. 

If you are a current Donaldson Plastic Surgery patient and believe you have experienced a rupture, please give us a call so we can help determine the best course of action based on your unique situation. 

Recalled Implants: Understanding The Known Link Between Textured Breast Implants & BIA-ALCL

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (or BIA-ALCL) is a rare form of cancer that has been associated with the use of textured breast implants. Dating back to 2011, only 733 patients were ever diagnosed with BIA-ALCI despite more than 10,000,000 individuals having undergone the surgery. If you have textured implants or implants recalled by the manufacturer, the FDA recommends you keep your implants if you are not experiencing any issues. 

At the time of the FDA’s most recent global reporting on BIA-ALCL, not a single death has been associated with the exclusive use of smooth implants – the only option we offer here at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. 

The Additional Benefits of Using Smooth, Round Implants: 

• More natural movement 
• Softer-feeling shell
• Decreased risk of rippling
• Increased lifespan 
• Lowered risk of leaking 

How You Can Extend The Lifespan Of Your Implants

Bolstering your beautiful results begins the moment you leave surgery. Our dedicated team will create a comprehensive surgical recovery program for you, complete with support garments, a list of activities to avoid, routine email reminders about where you are in the process and everything else you need to fully recover.

If you follow through on these early steps, you will already be on the path to incredible results for decades! 

You Deserve To Feel Confident About Your Decision

We firmly understand that there’s a lot that goes into choosing a breast augmentation in Columbus, Ohio. Our experts are here to help answer any questions you may have about the entire process – from implant warranty information, to financing options, to recovery timelines and beyond. 

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About The Author

For more than 20 years, Jeffrey Donaldson, MD has researched and adopted only the best breast implants the market has to offer. His surgical expertise and excellent bedside manner have led to countless successful surgeries and incredible, long-term results for each individual patient.