How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

How Long Will My Breast Implants Stay Looking Good?

When you get breast implants, you might wonder how long they’re going to last. It’s not just about the make or brand of the implants themselves; it’s also about how well you look after them and yourself. You see, taking good care of yourself and following your surgeon’s advice can make a big difference in how long your new breasts keep their shape and look good.

So, what’s the answer to the question, “How long do breast implants last?” – read on to learn more.

RELATED: Thinking of Getting a Breast Augmentation? Here’s what to Expect Over Time

How Long Do Breast Implants from Mentor or Motiva Last?

When it comes to the longevity of breast implants, leading brands in the UK like Mentor and Motiva offer a 10-year warranty. This is an assurance that should the implant itself fail within that time frame, you’re eligible for a new set of implants to replace the failed ones, provided you meet certain conditions outlined in the warranty. It’s important to note that the warranty does not cover the entire cost of revision surgery; it only covers the cost of the replacement implants.

RELATED: Mentor vs Motiva Breast Implants

What You Need to Know about the Lifetime Warranty of Breast Implants:

1. Protecting Your Breast Surgery Results Over Time:

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with your surgeon to assess the condition of your implants.
• Follow Aftercare Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon’s advice post-surgery is crucial for longevity.

2. When to Expect Future Removal or Replacement:

• Signs of Wear: Keep an eye out for signs such as rippling, hardening, or changes in shape and consult your surgeon if these occur.
• Personal Choice: Some people choose to replace or remove their implants for aesthetic reasons.

3. How to Know if Your Implants Need Replacing:

• Unusual Pain: If you start experiencing discomfort, consult your surgeon.
• Changes in Appearance: Significant changes in the way your breasts look could be a sign that the implants need replacing.

4. Do You Need to Replace Them Every 10 Years?

• Not Necessarily: The 10-year warranty does not mean you have to replace them at the 10-year mark; it’s just a period during which the implants are guaranteed to be replaced if they fail.

Understanding the warranty, combined with proper care and regular check-ups, will ensure you get the most out of your breast implants. Always consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Do You Need to Replace Your Breast Implants Every 10 Years?

The short answer is, no, you don’t automatically have to replace your breast implants every 10 years. However, statistics suggest that roughly 30-40% of women choose to undergo another surgery before hitting the 10-year mark. These numbers can vary depending on various factors like the surgeon’s expertise, implant brand, and even your geographical location.

Importance of Annual Check-ups:

Don’t skip your annual check-ups with your surgeon. These appointments are critical for ensuring that your implants are in good shape and that you’re not experiencing any complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture, which is the hardening of the tissue around the implant.

RELATED: Breast Implant Check

What to Do If You Have Concerns:

If you’re worried about how your breasts are feeling or looking, contact your surgeon right away. It’s better to be safe and get medical advice promptly. Depending on your symptoms, you might need an ultrasound or an MRI to get a clearer picture of what’s happening with your implants. Only after proper diagnosis can you and your surgeon discuss the options, which might include removal, replacement, or other forms of surgical intervention.

Planning for the Future:

While the 10-year warranty from most manufacturers might give you some peace of mind, it’s advisable to be prepared for the possibility of a future surgery within that timeframe. Some women end up needing surgery sooner for various reasons like lifestyle changes, complications, or aesthetic preferences.

That being said, it’s also entirely possible that you won’t need another surgery for a long time. Some women have had their implants for decades without any problems.

What Does a Breast Implant Guarantee Mean?

People are all unique, and that applies to breast implant surgery as well. Some women might need or decide to either take out or swap their breast implants before they’ve had them for 10 years. On the other hand, some women never go back for another operation; their implants last a lifetime.

However, it’s important to know that most trustworthy companies who make breast implants, like Motiva or Mentor, only promise that their implants will last for up to 10 years. This is sometimes referred to as a ‘lifetime guarantee’. If the implants fail within that time because of an issue that’s the company’s fault, they’ll usually give you new implants for free. But remember, this doesn’t cover the cost of the actual surgery to replace them.

Nothing is made to last forever, and that’s true for breast implants as well. The standard advice and the basis for the 10-year guarantee are built on the idea that silicone breast implants are designed to last up to a decade. Some women find that their implants last much longer without any issues, while others may face complications and opt for a follow-up operation to fix any problems. Additionally, some women might decide to change the size of their implants or take them out entirely because of changes in their lives or personal preferences as they get older.

If you’re considering breast implants, it’s a good idea to talk to your surgeon about how long different brands of implants tend to last and which brands are held in high regard. Motiva and Mentor implants are particularly popular in the UK.

Although new technologies are being developed in the field of breast implants, it’s generally a good idea to choose brands that are well-known for being reliable, consistent, and long-lasting.

What Does a ‘Lifetime Warranty’ on Breast Implants Actually Mean?

The term ‘lifetime warranty’ can be a bit confusing when it comes to breast implants, so it’s worth explaining in detail. When manufacturers talk about a ‘lifetime warranty’, they are not referring to the patient’s lifetime. Instead, they mean the expected lifespan of the breast implant itself, which is typically around ten years. Brands like Mentor and Motiva are examples of companies that offer this kind of warranty.

What this essentially means is that if your breast implant fails within ten years due to a manufacturing issue, the company will often provide a new implant for free. However, it’s important to note that this warranty usually doesn’t cover the surgery costs or the surgeon’s fees. You’ll have to bear those expenses yourself.

We’ve seen a range of experiences among our patients. Some have had their high-quality breast implants in place for many years, or even decades, without any issues. These implants continue to serve their purpose well, staying in good condition over time.

On the other hand, some opt for a change as they age—either switching to a different size or having their implants removed altogether. There are also cases where patients need to undergo corrective surgery due to complications. These issues can include capsular contracture or when someone has opted for a less reputable, cheaper brand that doesn’t meet the quality standards of more established names like Mentor and Motiva.

While it’s not rare for women to go back for revision surgery, many can enjoy the benefits of their original surgery for an extended period. So, if you’re considering breast implants, it’s crucial to understand what the ‘lifetime warranty’ truly covers and to discuss your options thoroughly with your surgeon.

RELATED: What Is Breast Revision Surgery?

How Often Do Women Need Revision Surgery After Breast Augmentation with Implants?

Getting an accurate global statistic on how many women need revision surgery after breast augmentation is a bit challenging. This is because not all countries keep detailed records on cosmetic surgeries, and not all surgeons report the rates at which their patients return for revision surgeries. However, available surveys and studies suggest that globally, the rate of revision surgeries after breast augmentation falls between 20 and 40 percent.

It’s worth noting that this figure doesn’t consider the varying skill levels of surgeons performing these surgeries. A well-trained and experienced surgeon may have lower rates of complications and subsequent revision surgeries than others.

Breast implants should ideally last about 10 years, but factors can affect their longevity. Lifestyle changes like trauma, significant weight fluctuations, and childbirth can all impact how long your breast implants will last in their original condition.

Revision surgeries are certainly not rare. However, you can make choices that minimise your risks. One of the most critical choices is selecting the right surgeon for your procedure. Surgeons, even plastic surgeons, are not all the same. They can differ in their approaches to surgery, and it’s crucial to choose one who customises the surgery to fit your specific needs. This includes considering the size of the implant in relation to your overall body shape, as well as taking into account the health of your skin.

So, if you’re contemplating breast augmentation, make sure you thoroughly vet your surgeon, discuss the options, and understand the associated risks and warranties. This will help you make an informed decision and potentially reduce the likelihood of needing revision breast surgery.

What to Do if You Need Revision Surgery Soon After Your Initial Breast Augmentation

It’s not rare for some women to require revision surgery earlier than the typical 10-year lifetime warranty period for breast implants. Predicting who might need an earlier revision can be challenging, and several factors can influence this.

Smoking, even just a few cigarettes a week, can significantly increase the risk of complications and, therefore, the likelihood of needing revision surgery. Other lifestyle factors can also impact, but sometimes, it’s just unfortunate circumstances that lead to complications requiring a follow-up procedure. Even if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, complications can arise that necessitate revision surgery.

It’s important to remember that the lifetime warranty on breast implants usually only covers the cost of the implant itself, not the surgery or surgeon’s fees. You’ll typically have to bear the additional surgical costs if a revision is required. Always consult your surgeon about potential costs if a revision becomes necessary.

Additionally, the lifetime warranty often has specific terms that may not cover every reason you might want or need to replace your implants. For example, if you later decide that you chose the wrong size and wish to change the size of your implants, the warranty might not cover this.

Understanding the Evolution of Breast Augmentation Results: Why Perfect Cleavage Is a Moving Target

Breasts naturally change over time, and this is no different for those who have undergone breast augmentation. While the aspiration is often for a “perfect” result, managing expectations from the outset is important. No human body is perfectly symmetrical, so striving for perfection in breast augmentation may lead to unrealistic expectations.

Breast implants may offer a temporary semblance of perfection, but life events can and will alter how your breasts look. Whether it’s weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or simply the passage of time, these factors will inevitably change the shape, size, and appearance of your breasts.

Even if the surgical procedure is executed flawlessly, the body’s healing process might not yield “perfect” results. This is simply because the concept of perfection is somewhat elusive in human anatomy and physiology.

That said, it’s essential to communicate openly with your surgeon about what you hope to achieve and manage your expectations. Tools like 3D imaging from Vectra or Crisalix can offer a glimpse of potential outcomes, helping you make a more informed choice about implant sizes. Your surgeon’s expertise is invaluable here; they’ve performed numerous surgeries and followed up with patients for years, providing a deep understanding of how different choices can impact results over time.

One thing to keep in mind is the inherent asymmetry in human bodies. While techniques exist to address differences in nipple placement or breast size, achieving exact symmetry is impossible. Even before surgery, your breasts won’t be perfectly symmetrical, so don’t expect absolute symmetry afterwards.

Will My Breast Implants Maintain Their Appearance Indefinitely?

The straightforward answer is no, your breast implants won’t look the same forever. Over time, various factors will influence the appearance of your breast implants.

Some Factors That Can Impact Your Results:

• Quality of your skin, including its elasticity and thickness
• Ageing processes affecting skin and collagen
• Fluctuations in your body weight or fat distribution
• The type of bra you wear and how regularly you wear it
• Your body’s ability to heal scars
• Nutritional habits and lifestyle choices
• Pregnancy, menopause, or other hormonal shifts
• Medication usage
• Illnesses and injuries

These elements can either positively or negatively affect the longevity and appearance of your breast augmentation results.

Imperfection is Natural: While the post-surgical appearance of your breasts might initially please you, it’s essential to remember that perfection is unattainable in any human body. That said, you and your surgeon can aim for satisfying and natural results.

Life Changes: Major life events, such as childbirth or getting older, will inevitably affect the appearance of your breasts. These changes are a natural part of life, and preparing for them is crucial.

Maintaining Your Results: One way to help preserve the quality of your results is by staying informed. Keep up to date with our blogs and follow your surgeon’s recommendations. Ensure that you have regular check-ups—at least once a year—and heed any advice from your healthcare provider.

When You Might Need Further Procedures: Sometimes, you might need or want further surgery due to various factors or natural ageing. This could range from a breast lift to correct sagging or a complete implant replacement. In some instances, you might require corrective surgery to address complications like ‘bottoming out’ or sagging.

When to Remove or Replace Breast Implants

Determining the right time to remove or replace your breast implants is a nuanced decision and varies from patient to patient. Here are some key considerations:

Clinical Indicators:

• Symptoms like pain, discomfort, or changes in breast shape
• Capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant)
• Rupture or leakage of the implant
• “Bottoming out,” where the implant moves below the natural crease of the breast

Age of Implants:

• Manufacturers usually offer a 10-year “lifetime warranty,” but actual longevity can vary.
• Some patients have implants that last for several decades without any issues, while others might face complications within a few years.

Personal Choices:

• Lifestyle changes or aesthetic preferences might lead you to consider removal or replacement.
• Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging can affect your satisfaction with the implants.

Surgeon’s Advice:

• Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are crucial.
• If you suspect an issue, consult your surgeon as soon as possible.
• Make an informed decision based on your surgeon’s expertise and recommendations.

Self-Monitoring:

• Attend all follow-up appointments on at least an annual basis.
• Alert your surgeon immediately if you experience potential trauma, injury, or any symptoms indicating complications like capsular contracture or rupture.

Longevity Expectations:

• Based on the manufacturer’s warranty, your implants should last around 10 years on average. However, this is just a guideline.

RELATED: How Do I Know When My Breast Implants Need Replacing?

Your individual circumstances can greatly influence when or if you’ll need to remove or replace your breast implants. Some patients choose to keep their implants for longer than the 10-year mark when they are not experiencing any issues. If you decide to do this, it’s crucial to continue with your annual follow-ups and heed the advice of your surgeon. Keeping abreast (pun intended) of the latest research in cosmetic surgery is also beneficial for making informed decisions about your body.

Do Many Patients Replace Their Breast Implants Before the 10-Year Warranty Expires?

The question of whether patients commonly replace their breast implants before the 10-year warranty is up is a nuanced one. Several variables contribute to this, ranging from medical complications to personal aesthetic preferences.

Medical Considerations: Capsular Contracture and Bottoming Out

One reason some patients opt to replace their implants sooner is the development of complications like capsular contracture or bottoming out. Such risks are generally mitigated when patients choose implants of moderate size and work with a skilled surgeon who adheres to strict safety standards for breast augmentation. These complications require corrective surgery, and while unfortunate, they can occur before the 10-year mark.

RELATED: Common Breast Implant Problems

The Scope of the 10-Year Warranty

Importantly, the 10-year warranty typically only covers certain defects, such as a rupture or deflation, and not the replacement of intact implants. Implants from quality manufacturers like Mentor and Motiva tend to be long-lasting and durable, with failure rates below the 10-year mark being uncommon. However, if there is a problem, your Plastic Surgeon will work diligently to resolve it, though some patience may be required. Some complications can be addressed through medication or exceptional post-operative care, and others may require revision surgery.

Elective Changes: Size, Shape, and Type

Another reason for implant replacement is elective, with patients wanting to make changes for aesthetic reasons or due to lifestyle changes. It’s not uncommon for patients to want a different shape, size, or type of implant (silicone vs saline) before the 10-year period is over. Advanced technologies like Vectra 3D imaging can assist patients and surgeons in making the most satisfying size selection, potentially reducing the likelihood of elective replacements.

The Waiting Game and Impact of Large Implants

For those considering size changes, it’s advisable to wait at least a year post-surgery before making this decision. Preferences can change, and it’s possible you’ll find the initial size perfectly suitable. Oversized implants come with their set of challenges, such as premature sagging or bottoming out, so be cautious and consult your surgeon.

Additional Factors Influencing Longevity

The longevity of breast implants can also be affected by several other factors, such as:

• The type of breast enlargement procedure
• Individual health factors like skin quality and overall physique
• Lifestyle habits, including sleep quality and nutrition
• The type and brand of breast implant used

Expert Debate on the 10-Year Warranty

The “10-year lifetime warranty” on breast implants is not a definitive rule but rather an industry guideline, often subject to debate among experts in cosmetic and plastic surgery.

Preserving Longevity through Healthy Living

After undergoing breast augmentation, it’s essential to lead a healthy lifestyle to maximise the longevity of your implants. Adequate rest, balanced nutrition, and avoiding harmful substances all play a role in maintaining your results. Proper bra support during and after exercise is crucial, and some even argue that wearing a good support bra at night can prevent sagging and keep the skin from stretching.

Final Take-Home Message

The longevity of breast implant results is a highly individual matter influenced by a variety of factors. Despite general guidelines from manufacturers about a 10-year warranty or expected lifespan for breast implants, each patient’s experience can differ significantly due to numerous variables:

1. Personal Physiology: Skin elasticity, breast tissue density, and overall health can influence how long the implants last and look good. For example, some people may have naturally thicker and more elastic skin that can hold the implant better over time.
2. Lifestyle Choices: Weight fluctuations, pregnancies, or menopause can all significantly impact the breast area and may accelerate the need for revision surgery. Regular exercise and a balanced diet may help maintain the results for a longer period.
3. Surgical Expertise: The surgeon’s skill and surgical technique can also influence the longevity of the results. Surgeons who specialize in breast augmentation are likely to achieve outcomes that last longer and look better.
4. Implant Type and Quality: The type and brand of implant chosen can also make a difference. Some implants are known for their durability and stability, while others might not be as long-term reliable.
5. Post-Operative Care: How well you follow post-operative guidelines, including wearing proper support and attending regular check-ups, can also impact the lifespan of your implants. Early detection of issues like capsular contracture can make a difference in longevity.
6. Unforeseen Complications: Despite the best surgical technique and post-operative care, complications like infection or capsular contracture can occur, necessitating earlier revision or replacement.
7. Personal Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, your aesthetic preferences might change. What you found appealing in your twenties may not align with what you want in your forties, leading to elective revision breast surgery.

Because of these and other variables, the timing for when to replace or remove breast implants can vary greatly from one patient to another. This makes regular consultations with your surgeon crucial, as well as following their post-operative care instructions and recommendations. This will help ensure that any issues are caught early and managed effectively, potentially extending the longevity of your breast implants.

Centre for Surgery: Your Destination for Exceptional Breast Augmentation in the UK

At Centre for Surgery, we take immense pride in offering top-tier breast augmentation procedures, transforming lives and enhancing confidence through the artistry of cosmetic surgery. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities, sets us apart as the premier choice for breast augmentation in the United Kingdom.

Why Choose Centre for Surgery for Your Breast Augmentation?

1. Experienced Surgeons: Our highly skilled and board-certified surgeons have performed countless successful breast augmentation procedures. With their expertise, you can trust that your results will be exceptional.
2. Quality Implants: We exclusively use Mentor and Motiva implants, which are known for their quality, durability, and natural appearance. These brands are synonymous with excellence in breast augmentation.
3. Personalised Approach: We understand that every patient is unique. Our surgeons work closely with you to create a tailored plan that aligns with your goals and body type, ensuring your results are precisely what you desire.
4. Outstanding Facilities: Our state-of-the-art surgical facilities meet the highest standards of safety and sterility, providing you with a secure and comfortable environment for your procedure.
5. Comprehensive Consultations: Our initial consultations are thorough, allowing you to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and make informed decisions about your breast augmentation.

Hear What Our Satisfied Patients Have to Say:

“I couldn’t be happier with my breast augmentation results from Centre for Surgery. The entire team made me feel at ease throughout the process, and the results exceeded my expectations.” – Sarah W.

“Choosing Centre for Surgery was the best decision I made for my breast augmentation. The surgeons are true experts, and the care and attention to detail were exceptional.” – Emily R.

For a more in-depth understanding of breast augmentation and related procedures, visit our informative Plastic Surgery Blog. We provide valuable insights into breast augmentation, recovery tips, and much more.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re considering breast augmentation and want to explore your options, we invite you to book a consultation with our renowned surgeons. During this consultation, you’ll receive personalized advice and a comprehensive assessment of your needs and goals.

Contact Us for Your Consultation:

• Phone: 0207 993 4849
• Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
• Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN

Discover the life-changing benefits of breast augmentation with Centre for Surgery, where excellence meets artistry, and your dreams become a reality.