Breast augmentation is easily the most popular plastic surgery in the United States and has held that title for nearly 15 years. Despite so many people having had the procedure, there are a lot of rumors and misconceptions about getting breast implants. One of the most prevalent is the idea that once you get them, it is only a matter of time before you have to get them replaced. But is it true that you have to replace breast implants?
Breast Implants Have Changed Over the Years
Like most misconceptions, there is some truth in the idea that if you get implants, replacing them is inevitable. When implants first hit the market in the 1960s, the implant shells were weaker than those in use today. People who got implants in those early decades almost always had to have them replaced within about 10 to 15 years.
This is no longer the case. Better materials and improved technology have resulted in implants that are significantly stronger. Still, they are not considered lifetime devices.
Does That Mean They Must Be Replaced?
No. There is no set expiration date for implants or a guarantee that anyone who gets them will need to remove or replace them. The general rule is that no matter the type of implant, the risk of rupture increases by one percent for every year you have them.
So, applying this, this means that 50 years after getting breast augmentation, there is a 50 percent chance that your implants will still be just fine.
If you have questions or concerns about breast implants and the chances of rupture, Dr. Campanile would be happy to discuss them with you. Head to our contact page or call us at 303-345-7476.
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Author: Dr. Francesco Campanile
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Francesco Campanile is a cosmetic surgeon in Denver who is focused on body contouring and breast enhancement. Time and time again, the women and men who choose Dr. Campanile say that they’ve found “the whole package” – a doctor who cares deeply about the quality of their results and has the skill to achieve excellence.
