Breast implants don’t last forever, says Dr. Joel Aronowitz. Many women replace their implants every 10 to 15 years. The Food and Drug Administration updated its breast implant guidelines on October 27, 2021, stating that breast implants don’t last a lifetime and a person who has them implanted will need multiple re-operations throughout their lifetime.
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Planning for Replacement Breast Implants
Know going into your original surgery that you need to replace your implants at about ten years of age, Joel Aronowitz MD said. In some cases, a patient needs replacement implants before that time. Signs that a person needs early implant replacement include developing capsular contracture, a hardening of the breasts that occurs in about 10% of patients, or breast droop. If your breast implants ripple, deflate, or rupture you will need to replace the implants early, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Finally, some patients want to update their look so they switch to a different implant shape or style when the 10-year replacement deadline arrives.
Preparing for Replacement Breast Implants
Your doctor performs a pre-surgical exam and interview. This exam includes lab tests to ensure you can undergo surgery. Your surgeon may tell you to stop smoking for a specific period before and after the procedure. They may also adjust the dosage of medications you’re taking. Avoid taking herbal supplements, aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs for the period before and after the surgery set by your doctor because taking them can increase bleeding.
On the day of your surgery, have a friend or family member drive you to the procedure. They’ll also need to drive you home and stay with you the night of the operation.
Replacement Surgery Process
If you recall your original breast implant surgery, expect the replacement operation to go the same way. The doctor administers general anesthesia. Making an incision under the lower fold of your breasts or around the areola, the surgeon removes the existing implant, replacing it with a new one.
Caring for Replacement Breast Implants
Keep clean the incision area and its closures, such as stitches, skin adhesives, or tape. Wear the recommended compression garment or support bra your doctor prescribes for as many weeks as directed to reduce swelling.
Doctors install drains under the skin of some patients to drain excess blood and fluid around the breasts. They remove these small tubes after a few days.
Your doctor sets a limit on how long you will need to avoid strenuous activity. The number of weeks of this limitation varies by patient and their healing.
Getting Your Breast Implants Replaced
As you near the tenth year of your breast implants, contact your doctor to schedule your replacement procedure. Undergo a consultation and peruse your surgical options relating to style and shape. If your surgeon retired, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website to find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area.
