Breast implants are not permanent; they have a limited lifespan and may eventually break.
However, contrary to what many people think, the lifespan of breast implants is not fixed; they do not have an expiration date. There is a common belief that breast implants expire after 10 years and must be replaced after this time. This is not true—implants should only be replaced if they rupture or if there is another issue, such as capsular contracture.
In this post, we answer common questions about the lifespan of breast implants, with insights from our aesthetic surgeons. Keep reading!
Can breast implants break?
Yes, breast implants can break, and in fact, it is common for them to rupture over time and need to be replaced—or removed if the patient prefers to stop using implants. However, it is important to clarify that the rupture of an implant does not have immediate harmful effects on the body. This is partly because the patient’s body forms a capsule around the implant, which isolates it and contains the silicone in case of rupture.
It is not definitively known which factors can prevent or accelerate implant rupture. However, we do know that there is a higher likelihood of rupture in cases of capsular contracture because folds develop that rub against the implant, causing the implant’s shell to wear down.
An interesting fact about implant rupture is that it is almost never bilateral; meaning that, with identical implants in the same patient, it is more common for one implant to break while the other remains intact. This complicates the search for reasons why implants rupture, as it would seem logical for both implants to evolve similarly. It should be noted that, when replacement is necessary, both implants are changed.
When is it necessary to change a breast implant?
There are two main situations that will lead the surgeon to recommend changing breast implants:
- In the case of rupture, detected through ultrasound or other tests if necessary.
- In the case of capsular contracture, which will usually cause the implant to deform, affecting the shape of the breast and possibly causing discomfort.
How often should breast implants be monitored?
At the Breast Implant Follow-up Unit at Clínica Planas (USIM), a follow-up protocol for implants has been established:
- During the first six years after the implantation procedure, a review with ultrasound and a medical visit is done every two years.
- From the seventh year onwards, the review with medical visit and ultrasound becomes annual.
This frequency allows us to confirm not only that the implant is in good condition but also the overall health of the breasts, as we also perform a clinical examination to rule out contractures and other abnormalities.
If, at any point, an implant is found to have a problem, it will be recommended to replace this implant or both, depending on how much time has passed since implantation. If one implant were to rupture shortly after implantation, which is very rare, replacing only that implant may be recommended.
Reasons to monitor and follow up on breast implants
As we have seen earlier in this article, monitoring patients with breast implants allows us to detect potential problems, such as contracture or rupture of the implants. This enables us to take action as quickly as possible and avoid future complications.
What is the USIM?
“La Unidad de Seguimiento de Implantes Mamarios” (USIM) is a specialized unit exclusively dedicated to the monitoring of breast implants and the care of patients with implants.
Beyond detecting abnormalities, the USIM’s goal is to raise awareness among patients about the importance of follow-up care for breast implants and breast health.
What does the Breast Implant Follow-up Unit at Clínica Planas cover?
Access to the USIM for Clínica Planas patients includes:
- Medical visit
- Monitoring and follow-up of breast implants through ultrasound
- Monitoring and follow-up of other abnormalities, such as capsular contracture, seromas, or breast pathology
Why is it important to have these check-ups periodically?
As with any potential medical anomaly or issue, early detection is crucial when addressing complications related to breast implants. The sooner we act, the lower the probability of facing significant complications.
