Breast implants are not meant to be permanent. The average lifespan of a breast implant is 10 years. However, this is just an average and some women have their implants for much longer while others have to replace theirs before the 10-year mark. There are several factors that will affect how long your breast implants last.
Factors That Affect Breast Implant Longevity
There are a few things that can affect how long your breast implants last.
Age
Your age is one factor. Implants tend to last longer in younger women. This may be because as we age, our skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner. This can cause the breasts to droop, which may lead to implant complications down the road. Additionally, as we age, our bodies go through changes (pregnancy, weight fluctuations) that can also affect breast implants.
Type of Implant
The type of implant is another factor that determines longevity. There are two types of breast implants—saline and silicone—and they each have their own pros and cons. Saline implants are less expensive but they can cause more rippling under the skin and they may require more frequent touch-ups than silicone implants. Silicone implants tend to look and feel more natural but they are more expensive up front.
Lifestyle Choices
Your lifestyle choices can also play a role in how long your breast implants last. Things like smoking, drinking, and not getting enough sleep can all contribute to early implant failure. Additionally, if you engage in activities that put a lot of strain on your chest (contact sports, for example) you may shorten the lifespan of your breast implants.
Although breast implants are not permanent, with proper care they can last a long time—10 years or more in some cases! Age, lifestyle choices, and the type of implant all play a role in determining how long your breast implants will last so it is important to keep all of these factors in mind when making your decision. Talk to Dr. Kurtis Martin about what is right for you and your unique situation.
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