There is a lot of misinformation when it comes to plastic surgery. It’s a topic that sells magazines or clicks these days, but sometimes, these stories are based on old information. This is because the field of aesthetics is constantly evolving. It’s one of the many reasons why I love what I do. Plastic surgeons are always looking for new and better ways to serve our patients such as devising safe, longer-lasting breast implants. The old adage was that you needed to replace your breast implants every 10 years. This is a myth. Replacing breast implants is only necessary if there is a complication or a change in your aesthetic desire.
History of Replacing Breast Implants Every Decade Myth
Silicone gel breast implants are my implant of choice. As one of the most studied medical devices in the world, their safety has been proven time and time again. Most people don’t realize that the latest incarnation of silicone implants actually have a lower rupture rate than saline implants. Furthermore, aesthetically, I think they deliver the most natural looking and feeling result for my patients. However, these implants do have a controversial past. This is why, in a 2011 report, the FDA recommended that breast augmentation and mastopexy augmentation patients replace their breast implants every decade as it could reduce the risk of a localized complication such as a rupture.
Annual Check In with Breast Surgeon
Personally, I don’t think it is necessary to replace an implant if there is no reason to do so. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is my rule of thumb. Every woman is unique, but I have patients who have had their breast implants for 20 years or longer. The important thing is that you touch base with your plastic surgeon regularly.
I like to see my breast implant patients annually. It’s the best way for both of us to stay on top of your breast health, and catch any complication early such as:
- Implant rupture
- Capsular contracture
- Implant malposition
- Sagging in breast skin & tissues that may require a breast lift
However, the most common reason why a patient comes to me for breast revision surgery to replace her breast implants is due to a change in her aesthetics .
Changing Aesthetics Drives Implant Replacement
I think that most of us would agree that our taste at 25 is not the same as our taste at 40. Many women who get their breast implants while still in their 20’s choose to go smaller in their 40’s or 50’s. Your body changes a great deal over this time period due to:
- Age
- Pregnancy
- Breast feeding
- Menopause
You may have put on some weight and find that now, with more native breast tissue, your old breast implants look too big. Or you may simply be “over” bigger breasts and want smaller implants that may be easier for an active lifestyle. My point is that replacing implants is personal. As long as you see your plastic surgeon regularly to assess your breast health and nothing is wrong, there is no need for revision breast surgery unless you want a different look.
To find out more about a breast augmentation, mastopexy augmentation or any surgical or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Mark Epstein in Hauppauge, Long Island, contact us today or call 631-689-1100 to schedule a consultation.
