When Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?

Although most breast implants don’t have an expiration date, there are certain scenarios when it may be necessary or advisable for a woman to have her implants removed or replaced. In other cases, women can keep their breast implants for years or even decades without issue. At SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi is committed to the health, safety, comfort, and satisfaction of his patients and is proud to perform breast implant removal, revision, and replacement when needed or desired. Keep reading to learn more about the lifespan of breast implants, including why and when they may need to be replaced, and what options you have for breast implant revision surgery.

How long do breast implants last?

For most women, breast implants can last for as long as 10 – 20 years – or even longer – without the need for replacement or revision. However, there are situations that may lead to the need for a revision, replacement, or removal sooner than that.

Why would breast implants need to be replaced?

Some of the most common reasons for breast implant revision, removal, or replacement surgery include:

• Implant rupture
• Capsular contracture
• Implant displacement
• Bottoming out
• Implant rippling
• Loss of volume
• Breast ptosis (sagging)
• Changes in appearance of breasts due to weight fluctuation, pregnancy, etc.
• Change in personal preference
• Desire a change from saline to silicone implants or vice-versa
• Breast implant illness (BII) symptoms

Does insurance cover breast implant removal?

In the majority of cases, insurance does not cover cosmetic breast procedures. However, SSK Plastic Surgery offers a number of convenient financing and payment options to help meet the many needs of our patients. In addition, Dr. Kelishadi believes that all patients should feel comfortable and satisfied with the results of their breast augmentation and proudly offers:

• A five-year guarantee to ensure patients are satisfied with their appearance
• A lifetime guarantee for patients who experience the symptoms of breast implant illness
• Free removal of implants if needed

Can I get new implants put in after capsular contracture?

In cases of breast implant rupture or palpable rippling, replacing the affected implants with new breast implants is typically appropriate and effective. With some complications, however, like BII or capsular contracture, patients may be more likely to have a repeat occurrence of the problem, particularly if new implants are placed almost immediately upon removal of the original implants. Patients should keep in mind that each case is unique, and Dr. Kelishadi will determine the safest and most effective treatment plan to help every patient feel as comfortable and confident as possible with their breasts.

Should a patient not wish to have new implants placed or not qualify for implant replacement, Dr. Kelishadi may recommend a breast lift and/or fat transfer to the breast to restore a more natural look and position following implant removal. With an experienced surgeon, breast implant revision, replacement, or removal can be a life-changing step and help you to feel more like yourself once again.

Get the peace of mind you deserve with breast implant replacement in Orange County, CA

If you have experienced a complication with your breast implants, have concerns about the age of your implants, or simply have had a change of preference regarding your appearance, we can help. To learn more about your options for removing or replacing your breast implants, call SSK Plastic Surgery to schedule your private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon and top Newport Beach cosmetic breast surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi today.