Are Some Breast Implants Maintenance-Free?

There is a widely held misconception that breast implants only last 10 years. While it’s true that many Plastic Surgeons used to recommend replacement of silicone gel implants after 10-15 years, the superior materials and durability of the modern breast implant make this advice virtually obsolete.

Risk of Breast Implant Rupture

Statistically speaking, the actual risk of rupture for a breast implant based on real patient data is low. Studies show that your risk of having a deflated saline implant at the end of 10 years is only 7-10% and the risk of having ruptured silicone implant at the end of six years is about 3%. In other words, the vast majority of silicone and saline breast implants will have no problems at 10 years.

When an implant does rupture, you will either see a significant different in the look of your breast tissue or will notice obvious deflation.

Warrant Programs for Saline and Silicone Breast Implants

In addition, today’s breast implant manufacturers offer warranty programs that demonstrate the confidence they have in the quality of their products. At Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC, we use primarily MENTOR® breast implants and some Allergan breast implants. All MENTOR® implants come with a free, limited warranty program that offers lifetime product replacement and limited financial assistance if needed. In most cases, for a very minimal fee, you can also purchase a warranty at the time you get your implants covering the entire cost of the new implant and surgery for the augmentation.

So today, most implants are truly maintenance-free. The great news is that the vast majority of women can have their implants for life after their breast implant surgery.

Risk of Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the breast implants. This scar tissue can become hard and be painful and cause aesthetic issues. The rates of capsular contracture after breast surgery range from 15-45%, and of those, it usually occurs within the first year after the procedure. Luckily, with properly-sized implants, your surgeon can reduce your risk.

Schedule A Consultation

If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, please contact Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse today for a free consultation. Dr. Widenhouse specializes in the art and science of breast enhancement, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction, body contouring with liposculpture, facial cosmetic surgery, laser surgery, and skin cancer treatment and has years of experience in all of these disciplines.

Read testimonials from his many happy clients, and view the Port City Plastic Surgery Before and After Gallery.