A breast implant is a silicone or saline-filled device inserted into your breasts during a breast augmentation. The popularity of these devices has been on the rise over the last couple of decades, especially among women who want fuller breasts after breastfeeding or those who want their breasts enlarged.
Most women who have breast implants will have them replaced in their lifetime. Most people need to replace their implants about every 10-15 years.
WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO HAVE YOUR BREAST IMPLANTS REPLACED?
You may wonder when is the right time to consider having your breast implants replaced. You will be able to tell when it’s time because you will notice some key changes that will occur. Here are some of the most common situations in which you may need new implants.
YOUR BREASTS APPEAR DEFLATED
If your breast implant has ruptured, it may make your breasts appear deflated or flat. When saline implants rupture, the saltwater solution inside of the implant will simply be absorbed by your body. However, when a silicone implant ruptures the silicone gel will need to be removed by a surgeon. If you believe your implants have ruptured, reach out to your surgeon as soon as possible.
YOUR BREAST SKIN FEELS HARD OR TIGHT
When breast implants are placed, the body recognizes them as foreign objects. Because of this, a layer of scar tissue will form around the implants. In some cases, this scar tissue will contract and squeeze around the breast implant, which is known as capsular contracture. This condition can cause pain or discomfort, breasts that feel firm or tight, misshapen breasts, rippling, or breasts that sit high on the chest. If this occurs, the breast implant can be removed or replaced.
YOUR IMPLANTS HAVE BOTTOMED OUT
Bottoming out is a surgery complication that causes the breasts to become asymmetrical. For those who have an inframammary incision, bottoming out causes this scar to rise upward on the breast. Replacing the breast implant can correct this issue.
YOU WANT A DIFFERENT LOOK
This is something that many women experience after having breast implants for a few years. Some women may decide that they wish to have different-sized implants, while some may prefer the feel and look of natural breasts and may decide to have them removed altogether. Breast implant replacement or removal can help you accomplish the look you desire.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
If you decide that it is time to replace your breast implants, schedule a consult with Dr. Cusimano at Cusimano MD Plastic Surgery today. During your consultation, we will create a personalized treatment plan to help you look and feel your best.