Breast augmentation remains one of the most requested cosmetic procedures in the United States. According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it was the second most common cosmetic surgical procedure, with almost 300,000 procedures reported. A common question we hear from patients about breast augmentation in Kirkland is, “How long do my breast implants last, and when do I need to replace them?”
It’s a very important question and the answer is not simple. A lot of the patients are not even aware that breast implants are not lifetime devices, though they last for a long time. Most will not need to replace implants on a fixed schedule, but many will need another surgery at some point. Read on to understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to monitor implants over time.
Key Takeaways
- Breast implants do not “expire” at 10 years, but the chance of needing a revision or replacement increases over time.
- Many sources cite about 10–15 years as a common timeframe when people start considering replacement, but some implants last longer and some need attention sooner.
- You should consider replacement when there’s a problem (rupture, capsular contracture, pain, shape changes) or when you want a change.
Do Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced Every 10 Years?
Not always. The idea that implants should be replaced every 10 years is commonly seen online. It’s better to think of it this way: you cannot have implants forever. The longer you have them, the more likely it is you may need another procedure at some point.
Some medical sources explain implants often last around 10 years. But plastic surgery organizations commonly discuss replacement or revision being typical ranging from 10 to 15 years. Eventually, it depends on the person and the situation.
So the most honest answer in this case can be: replace implants when there is a medical need or a personal reason. Don’t rely on a calendar date.
How Long Do Breast Implants Usually Last?
There isn’t one perfect number. Everyone has a unique body and implants can be affected by many things like age, pregnancy, weight changes, implant type, and how your body heals. Here are the ranges most often cited:
- Many people keep implants 10–15 years before a replacement or removal becomes necessary or desired.
- Some sources say implants often last about 10 years on average.
It might be possible for someone in rare cases to keep implants longer than 10–15 years if there are no problems.
Why People Replace Breast Implants
Most implant replacements happen for one of two reasons: problem or preferences.
Medical or safety reasons
- Rupture or leak: Silicone ruptures can be “silent.” It means you might not feel it right away. Saline ruptures usually cause visible deflation.
- Capsular contracture: It happens when scar tissue around the implant tightens. It can make the breast feel firm, look distorted, or become painful.
- Pain, swelling, or noticeable changes: Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified surgeon.
Personal reasons
Implant issues are not the only reasons for replacement. Even if implants stay the same, your body changes. So you may want to replace for:
- A different size or shape
- Changes after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
- Natural aging and breast sagging over time
Signs You May Need Breast Implant Replacement
If you notice any of the signs below, schedule an evaluation with your surgeon as soon as possible:
- A breast looks smaller, flatter, or suddenly different. It’s more common with saline deflation.
- A new firm feeling, tightness, or distortion.
- A change in breast shape, position, or symmetry.
- Ongoing pain or discomfort.
- Swelling that doesn’t go away.
- A lump, fluid collection, or other unusual changes. It needs immediate medical evaluation.
Not every change means your implant has failed, but it’s worth checking these changes early.
Silicone vs Saline Implant Replacement Timings
In case a saline implant leaks, the deflation is always noticeable. Saline itself is not considered a health risk because the body absorbs it. Saline implant replacement is usually planned based on the amount of deflation and your personal goals. On the other hand, silicone ruptures may not be obvious right away. This is why imaging is important.
How to Monitor Implants Over Time
Even if your implants feel fine, monitoring is essential for your own safety.
FDA screening recommendation (silicone)
The FDA recommends getting your first ultrasound or MRI about 5 to 6 years after surgery, then repeating imaging every 2 to 3 years. This helps check for silent ruptures that may not cause symptoms.
If you have symptoms
If you have pain, swelling, changes in shape, or anything unusual, your provider may suggest imaging sooner to make sure the implant is intact.
What Does Breast Implant Replacement Surgery Involve?
Breast implant replacement usually means taking out the old implants and placing new ones. Depending on your needs, your surgeon may also remove scar tissue, change the implant size or type, or recommend a breast lift if sagging has occurred. Some patients choose to keep the same look, while others use the opportunity to make changes.
How to Decide If It’s Time to Replace Your Implants
Ask yourself these simple questions:
- Do I have symptoms or changes?
If yes, schedule an evaluation. - Do I still like how they look and feel?
If not, it might be time to discuss options. - How long has it been since surgery?
FDA imaging guidance can help catch issues early.
If you need guidance, our team at Northwest Face & Body can help. Call us at (425) 584-5061 to book a consultation.
FAQs
How do I know when my breast implants need replacing?
You may need to replace your implants if you notice pain, swelling, a change in shape, or if one breast looks different from the other. For silicone implants, providers may catch problems during an ultrasound or MRI even if you feel fine.
What happens after 20 years of breast implants?
After 20 years, many implants still look okay, but the chance of problems like rupture or scar tissue is higher. Many people choose to replace or remove implants around this time because their body or preferences have changed.
At what age should breast implants be removed?
There is no specific age when implants must be removed. They are usually removed or replaced based on health issues, changes in appearance, or personal choice, not age alone.
What happens if you don’t change your implants after 10 years?
Nothing automatically happens at 10 years, and many people keep their implants longer without problems. However, the risk of issues slowly increases over time, so regular checkups and monitoring are important.
