Why do women choose to replace their breast implants?
Breast implants don’t have an expiration date, but they also don’t last forever.
Every case is unique, but in this blog, we discuss the six most common reasons why women choose to have their breast implants replaced.
1. Changing the size and shape of the breasts
The most common reason for an implant exchange is the desire to adjust the size, shape, or type of implant.
Factors such as weight loss, aging, menopause, and breastfeeding can lead to a reduction in breast gland tissue (also known as “atrophy“). As a result, the breasts may change in size or shape, even with implants.
Many women, therefore, choose a new set of implants over time because they are no longer satisfied with the results of their previous breast augmentation.
2. Replacing older implants with a more modern version
Additionally, breast implants have significantly improved over the past decades, with a stronger focus on safety and a natural look and feel. This can be an extra motivation to replace older implants with a more modern version.
3. Sagging breasts
Breasts can start to sag due to one of the following causes:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: During pregnancy, breast tissue expands, and after childbirth or the breastfeeding period, it shrinks again. This can have a lasting impact on the shape of your breasts.
- Weight changes: Rapid weight loss or gain can lead to changes in the skin of your breasts. Sagging or stretch marks may become visible.
- Aging: As we age, breasts naturally start to sag, even if you have implants.
If your breasts have changed shape, you may consider a breast rejuvenation surgery.
Common misconception: larger implants to fix sagging breasts
A common mistake is believing that larger implants can correct sagging breasts. In reality, this can actually worsen the problem, causing the breasts to sag even more.
In such cases, a combination of implant exchange and a breast lift is often the best solution. The breast lift restores the position and shape of the breasts, while the implants are adjusted to match your preferences and body proportions. Click here for all information about breast lifts.
4. Capsule problems
What is a capsule?
When breast implants are placed, the body naturally forms a capsule or membrane around the implants. This capsule formation is a normal response to a foreign body and is not considered a complication.
What is capsular contracture?
However, in some cases, the capsule may harden. This is called capsular contracture and is considered an abnormal response and a potential complication.
With capsular contracture, the following problems may occur:
- The breasts appear uneven.
- The breast looks like a “hard ball” and feels like that as well.
Although the chance of capsular contracture is small, we are aware of the potential impact. The breast implants we use have a very low risk (0.5%) of capsular contracture. For this reason, the manufacturer also offers a warranty against capsular contracture.
When does capsular contracture occur?
Capsular contracture usually develops within the first two years after breast augmentation, sometimes as early as six months. Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict in advance who will develop it or when it may occur.
That’s why we always emphasize the importance of attending follow-up appointments so we can detect any changes in a timely manner.
How is capsular contracture treated?
To correct capsular contracture, a procedure is required in which:
- The breast implants are replaced.
- The hardened scar tissue (the capsule) is removed.
5. Torn breast implants
A torn implant is a clear reason to replace breast implants, although it is fortunately rare.
A tear can sometimes be difficult to detect because the gel-like material of the implants helps maintain their shape, even if there is a tear.
As a result, it is almost impossible to determine on your own whether an implant is damaged.
Therefore, it is important to have your implants regularly checked, ideally annually.
An MRI scan is the most reliable way to check if a breast implant is intact. Most patients combine this with their annual breast cancer screening. However, it is good to know that even an MRI doesn’t always provide 100% certainty. There have been cases where a scan indicated a “possible” rupture, while the implant turned out to be completely intact upon removal.
If a tear is suspected or confirmed, replacing the implant is the best solution. This resolves the issue and prevents further risks.
6. Rippling
“Rippling” refers to the visible edges of breast implants under the skin, resembling a “corrugated” pattern.
This is most common in women with thin or diminished (“atrophied”) breast tissue, often due to aging, breastfeeding, and/or weight loss.
The risk is lower with the latest generation of breast implants because they have a more cohesive gel and are also better filled.
For women with very thin breast tissue, hybrid breast augmentation can be a good option. This involves local fat injections (lipofilling) to thicken the breast tissue at strategic points, resulting in a smoother and more natural appearance.
Can you do anything yourself to preserve your breast implants for as long as possible?
- Scheduling check-up appointments and performing self-exams can also extend their lifespan.
- Choosing the right plastic surgeon greatly influences whether and when you will need to undergo implant replacement. The more skilled your plastic surgeon is (and the more experience they have with breast augmentations), the longer you will be able to keep your breast implants.
Source: This text is an adaptation of the contribution on the website of the American Society for Plastic Surgeons by Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD, Houston, Texas.
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