Quick Access
More than 60 years have passed since the first breast implants began to be used and they have evolved over all this time notably in terms of texture, shape, consistency, and duration. Despite this, implants are not eternal devices, therefore, it may be necessary to replace them at some point in your life. The duration can vary from one woman to another. Some women require implant replacement surgery within a few years, while others may take 10 to 20 years. More than 60 years have passed since the first breast implants began to be used and they have evolved over all this time notably in terms of texture, shape, consistency, and duration. Despite this, implants are not eternal devices, therefore, it may be necessary to replace them at some point in your life. The duration can vary from one woman to another. Some women require implant replacement surgery within a few years, while others may take 10 to 20 years.
The prostheses of yesteryear required replacement generally after 10 years; however, the fifth-generation prostheses that we currently place can last many more years and only require replacement in the event of breakage, leakage, significant contracture, or wear.
The latest advance in breast prostheses is lightness, since reducing the weight of breast implants reduces the force of gravity on the breasts. Over time, the tissues that support the breasts lose their elasticity, making them more susceptible to the unstoppable force of gravity. More weight results in more stretching.
Lightweight breast implants are 30 percent lighter than today’s silicone prosthetics but equally safe, providing breasts with a natural look and feel, but with minimal weight.
Women with implants can have their breasts checked with mammography and ultrasound. On some occasions it may be necessary to also perform an MRI, since it is the quintessential test to assess the status of breast implants.
When you have a mammogram, you must advise the staff that you have a prosthesis so that they can perform the mammogram correctly by performing what we call the “Eklund maneuver” which ensures that you can visualize all the breast tissue. It is therefore necessary to do it at a center with qualified personnel.
