Breast implants are a safe and effective way to enhance breast shape or restore volume after surgery. Millions of women have implants for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes, but understanding how to care for them over the long term is key. This guide explains implant types, monitoring recommendations, and what you need to know to maintain your breast health.
Types of breast implants.
- Saline implants: Filled with sterile saline; deflation is immediately noticeable.
- Silicone gel implants: Feel natural; ruptures may be “silent.”
- Silicone gel implants: Feel natural; ruptures may be “silent.”
- Surface types: Smooth is standard; textured implants are rarely used today due to safety concerns.
- Cosmetic vs. reconstructive: Used for augmentation, revision, or post-mastectomy reconstruction.
Choosing the right implant type and surface can help you feel confident and comfortable with your results.
Are breast implants safe?
- Modern implants have a strong safety profile when properly placed and monitored.
- Rupture risk increases with implant age; silicone ruptures may not be immediately noticeable.
- FDA recommends imaging (MRI or ultrasound) at 5–6 years post-implant, then every 2–3 years for asymptomatic silicone implants.
With the right surgical plan and follow-up, you can enjoy your implants safely for many years.
Routine care and monitoring.
- Watch for changes in breast shape, firmness, or symmetry.
- Schedule routine clinical exams with your plastic surgeon.
- Imaging helps detect silent silicone ruptures before symptoms appear.
- Mammograms remain accurate with implants using specialized “implant displacement” views.
Staying attentive to your breasts and attending regular check-ups ensures peace of mind and early detection of potential issues.
How long do implants last?
- Implants do not need automatic replacement; replacement is only needed if problems arise or goals change.
- Average time to rupture: ~8 years for silicone, slightly longer for saline.
- 10-year implant survival: ~98%; 15-year survival: ~80%.
- Longevity is influenced by implant type, placement, pregnancy, weight changes, and aging.
Many patients keep their implants safely for over a decade; knowing when and why to replace them helps you plan confidently.
Breastfeeding with implants.
- Most patients can breastfeed, though exclusive breastfeeding rates may be slightly lower.
- Submuscular placement improves breastfeeding success.
- Implant size and incision type generally do not affect breastfeeding.
Implants don’t prevent breastfeeding, and with proper guidance, most patients can nourish their babies successfully.
Special considerations for reconstruction.
- Revision rate: 25% at 7 years (vs. 11.7% for cosmetic augmentation)
- Capsular contracture more common: 12.7%
- Radiation may affect implant longevity
- Staged reconstruction may involve tissue expanders before permanent implants
Reconstructive patients benefit from personalized follow-up to manage higher complication rates and achieve the best long-term results.
Next steps.
If you have any questions or concerns about your breast implants, please reach out to us. Schedule a personalized consultation at Iyengar Plastic Surgery to create a long-term care plan tailored to your anatomy and goals.
