Based in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Jessica Belz is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and trained with internationally recognized breast surgeon Dr. Dennis Hammond. Her professional areas of expertise include breast augmentation, revision, lifts, and reductions.
Where Did the 10-Year Rule Come From?
The 10-year mark is often mistaken for a firm replacement deadline. Breast implants don’t last forever, but their lifespan varies based on the type, your body, changes in the surrounding tissue, and whether a complication develops.
When Might Breast Implant Replacement Be Necessary?
A change in implant age alone doesn’t mean you need surgery. Replacement or removal may be considered when you develop:
- An implant rupture or saline implant deflation
- Capsular contracture, which can cause firmness, discomfort, or distortion
- Shifting, asymmetry, or visible rippling
- Persistent swelling, a new mass, pain, or another unexplained breast issue
- A desire for a different implant size, shape, or type
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and natural aging can also alter the tissue around an implant. You might eventually consider revision even when the implant itself hasn’t failed.
How Are Silicone Implants Monitored?
A silicone implant rupture may not create noticeable symptoms. This is often called a silent rupture. Physical examination alone may not detect it, so imaging can play an important role.
For silicone gel-filled implants, current FDA recommendations call for an ultrasound or MRI five to six years after surgery and every two to three years after that. Your personal screening plan may differ based on your history, symptoms, and previous imaging.
Saline implant ruptures are usually easier to recognize because the breast noticeably loses volume as the body absorbs the saline.
What Should You Do as Your Implants Get Older?
Keep your implant information, follow your recommended monitoring plan, and continue routine health screenings based on your age and risk factors. Don’t wait for a milestone anniversary when you notice increasing firmness, pain, swelling, shape changes, or a sudden difference between your breasts.
Schedule a Breast Implant Evaluation in San Antonio
The decision to keep, remove, or exchange breast implants should reflect their condition and your current goals, not simply the number of years since surgery.
For an assessment with Dr. Jessica Belz in San Antonio, TX, contact us online or reach the office at (210) 497-7100.