How long do breast implants last?

Published December 1, 2023 by
Mature woman with breast implants

Breast augmentation, breast lift with implants, and gender-affirming breast augmentation use implants to help boost volume and improve the shape of breasts. These procedures’ ability to refine body contours, boost self-esteem, and align physical appearances with personal identities make them popular, with high satisfaction rates. But how long will the results last?

I’ve performed thousands of breast enhancement procedures over the last 17+ years as a cosmetic surgeon in Las Vegas, and in this post, I’ll weigh in on this topic and answer other common questions about breast implant longevity. 

Can breast implants last 20 years, or more?

It’s not possible to give an absolute answer to the question of how long implants last, but we can say there is no precise expiration date, and they do not need to be replaced at regular intervals. FDA-approved breast implants are safe and durable devices that can last several decades without issue. 

However, they are not considered indestructible devices and, like most things, will eventually wear out. Exactly how long breast implants last depends on the product and the individual patient, but, in general, 20-year-old implants are more likely to rupture than implants that were recently placed.

Many patients feel their breast appearance looks as good as new over a decade after their augmentation; however, it’s only natural that life changes and the aging process will affect your breast’s appearance over time. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and changes in aesthetic preferences prompt some patients with breast implants to update their look with a breast implant revision. When my patients want to revamp their breast appearance, I assess their anatomy, offer guidance on the latest types of implants, help them choose larger or smaller implants, and determine if a breast lift would help them enjoy optimal results. 

Types of breast implants

There are two types of FDA-approved breast implants currently available on the market: silicone and saline. Both implant types are available in a variety of sizes, profiles, and fullness levels. While neither is necessarily longer-lasting than the other, it is important to understand the differences in each so that you can choose the right type of implant for you. Silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a lightweight silicone gel. These types of implants are typically preferred by patients with thinner tissue. Saline implants, on the other hand, consist of a silicone outer shell that is filled with saline (sterile salt water) to achieve your desired breast size once it is placed in the breast pocket. Advantages of saline include a smaller incision and the ability to be adjusted to achieve breast symmetry.

How likely is breast implant rupture?

As fantastic and durable as most implants are, they do not last forever, and there is always a small risk that they will rupture due to natural wear and tear (or, in rare cases, sudden impact). About 10% of implants rupture, while 90% of implants are safe for much longer than a decade. Most implant manufacturers now offer warranties on breast implants that cover ruptures.

In silicone implants, this asymptomatic break of the implant shell is also known as “silent rupture” and requires monitoring with medical imaging at intervals, per FDA recommendations. 

In contrast, a ruptured saline implant will be obvious; you will notice the implant deflate as the saline leaks out and is safely absorbed by the body.

Only about 10% of implants experience rupture, and 90% of implants remain intact for well over a decade.

What is the risk for breast implant illness (BII)? 

There are not yet scientific studies that clarify all of the risk factors for breast implant illness, but recent studies suggest that BII may be the body’s immune system reaction to the breast implant. We do not have evidence suggesting that one type of implant or another is more prone to cause systemic symptoms. Patients should know that all breast implants are composed of an outer silicone shell.

Some patients report that BII symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and joint pain improved after they had their implants removed, and studies have shown that most patients with systemic symptoms see some relief, if not all, from explantation.

Still, there is no guarantee removing your implants will improve your health. It’s important to see your primary care doctor to rule out any diagnosable causes for adverse symptoms you may be experiencing. If you cannot find an answer, then a supposed diagnosis of BII may lead you to decide to remove your breast implants.

How do I know when it’s time to replace my implants?

You should replace a ruptured implant, whether silicone or saline. Studies show that rupture risk increases slightly each year for the first decade and rises more quickly after the ten-year mark. Because of that, it’s important to follow the FDA-recommended monitoring schedule. 

I only offer top-of-the-line breast implants with comprehensive warranties at my practice. We also offer supplemental warranties in addition to the manufacturer warranty to cover a portion of the surgical fees for breast implant revision.

That being said, many women have implants that are decades old, and as long as they are smooth-surfaced implants and are being routinely monitored, there is no cause for alarm. If there is no medical or aesthetic concern with your implants, then there is no need to replace or update them. However, if you have textured-surface implants, have them replaced: textured implants have been associated with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare cancer of the immune system.

Sometimes women elect to remove or replace their implants even if there is no medically related reason to do so. Changes in lifestyle or goals for their body may cause women to revisit their initial decisions regarding implant type, size, or shape, and these reasons are all perfectly understandable.

Are there any steps I can take to monitor the state of my implants?

It’s always important to continue regular breast self-exams for the sake of overall breast health, whether you have implants or not.

Also, we have a newer, more convenient screening method for silicone implant rupture. Historically, MRI has been the recommended screening method for silent rupture; however, few patients follow through on these recommendations as MRIs are expensive, time-consuming, and feel claustrophobic for some patients. As such, high-resolution ultrasound has become an equally effective alternative to MRI for silicone implant screening with numerous benefits for patients.

Generally, it is up to the patient to schedule and receive these tests, although many providers will send reminders to patients on their surgery anniversary date to help them remember when it’s time for follow-up care.

Learn more about breast implants on Dr. Pancholi’s blog:

Considering a Las Vegas breast enhancement procedure?

Dr. Samir Pancholi is an award-winning cosmetic surgeon with over 17 years of experience performing breast enhancement procedures with implants. Patients from all over the state choose Dr. Pancholi for his commitment to providing a safe and comfortable experience while achieving incredibly natural results. He will happily answer any questions you may have about breast implants, including their safety and longevity. To schedule your personal consultation, call his Las Vegas cosmetic surgery center at (702) 363-0240 or contact the practice online today.

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