Women who undergo breast augmentation surgery know that breast implants are not guaranteed to last indefinitely. After a number of years, the patient may desire to modify the appearance of their breasts, change to a different type of implant, or adjust the size. Many will opt to have a breast lift at the same time. Although the FDA approves most saline and silicone implants for 10-20 years, it’s often safe to go beyond that timeframe. However, approximately 20% of women have an implant revision or replacement within 8-10 years for either cosmetic reasons or complications. The following are some of the indications that implants need to be removed or replaced.
Firmness in the Implant
Scar tissue can form and harden around implants. This hardening is called capsular contracture. The breasts may look different than they once did, and the hardening can cause pain. This is a commonly cited reason for implant removal.
Asymmetry between Breasts
There has been a change in the position of the breasts. One implant may be sitting too high or too low. Changes may be the result of aging, weight loss, or weight gain. A nipple may even point in a different direction than previously. Replacement of the implants may correct the issues, although a breast lift may also be recommended.
Rippling, Wrinkling, or Dimpling
Both saline and silicone implants may develop these cosmetic abnormalities. In most instances, this is difficult to correct without replacing the implants.
Deflated Implant
Implants can leak, rupture, and deflate. The older the implant, the greater the risk of a rupture and its complications. Saline implants can develop a small hole or rupture that allows the saline to leak out. The affected breast begins to deflate and looks dramatically different than the other breast. Silicone implants can also rupture, but many women don’t experience the same types of symptoms as in a saline implant rupture. They may experience symptoms such as hard knots, an uneven appearance of the breasts, pain, tingling, numbness, burning, and changes in sensation.
Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center can help.
The same surgeon that performed the original breast implant surgery does not have to be the one to perform a revision or replacement surgery. Dr. Cristina Keusch and her staff at Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center are happy to discuss breast implant changes and complications with patients and the options available to them. Some options include removing the implants, replacing them, or having a breast lift with or without implants.
Breast implant surgery is a highly personal procedure. Dr. Keusch may recommend implants of a different type, shape, or size depending on a patient’s body frame, goals, and the condition of the breast tissue. Contact the office today to schedule a consultation.
