Posted: July 21, 2020
Breast implants are designed to add volume to the chest, improve breast symmetry, and generally enhance the bust. Some older breast implant models may produce these results for 10 or more years. Newer options, such as form-stable implants, may retain their shape and feel even longer, but no breast implant is meant to last forever.
Signs Your Breast Implants Need to be Replaced
If you have saline breast implants, one of the biggest signs indicating a need for replacement is deflation. Silicone implants do not lose volume as rapidly as saline when ruptured. Slow leaks may need to be detected through MRI. Gummy bear implants (form stable) are designed to prevent leaks even when ruptured.
In addition to deflation, signs you may need to replace your implants include:
- Your breasts have become asymmetrical
- You desire a different size or shape implant
- You no longer wish to have breast implants
- You are experiencing capsular contracture
Capsular contracture is a hardening of scar tissue around a breast implant. This can result in pain, swelling, and asymmetry. Any discomfort around your implants should be brought to the immediate attention of your plastic surgeon.
Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness (BII) is a rare condition with a wide range of potential symptoms including fatigue, chest pain, chills, photosensitivity, and depression. BII is not considered a risk factor of breast augmentation, though it is a possibility. Studies into the condition note the similarity between its range of symptoms and a host of disorders and diseases experienced by women without breast implants as well, making it extremely difficult to diagnose BII.
Breast Implant Revision
Breast augmentation revision surgery involves the removal and replacement of breast implants. During this procedure, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Fata carefully follows previous incisions to help reduce the risk of additional scarring and improve final aesthetics. Many women choose to upgrade to a more reliable implant during these procedures, helping to ensure a longer-lasting and more natural-looking result.
Dr. Fata has over 25 years of experience helping women look and feel their best. If you are interested in breast implant removal or revision, please call Renaissance Plastic Surgery at 317-575-9152 to schedule your consultation today.
