How Long Do Fake Breasts Last?
Artificial or “fake” breasts, more commonly known as breast implants, are a popular option for women who want to enhance the size or shape of their breasts. But like all surgical procedures, breast implants come with certain risks and potential complications. One common concern among women considering breast implants is how long they will last before needing to be replaced.
To understand the answer to this question, it’s important to first understand the types of breast implants available. There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, while silicone implants are filled with a gel-like substance. Both types of implants have a silicone outer shell, but the filling material can affect the feel, shape, and durability of the implant.
Durability of Saline and Silicone Implants
In general, saline implants are considered to be less durable than silicone implants. This is because the sterile salt water filling can sometimes leak or be absorbed by the body, causing the implant to deflate or lose its shape. Saline implants also have a higher rate of complications, such as rippling or wrinkling, compared to silicone implants. As a result, saline implants may need to be replaced more often than silicone implants.
Silicone implants, on the other hand, are considered to be more durable and have a lower rate of complications. This is because the gel-like filling is less likely to leak or be absorbed by the body, and it can maintain its shape and feel more effectively than saline. However, silicone implants are not immune to complications, and they can still rupture or leak over time.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Breast Implants
In addition to the type of implant, there are several other factors that can affect the lifespan of breast implants. Some of these factors include:
- The patient’s age: Older women may be more likely to develop complications with breast implants, which could require the implants to be replaced sooner.
- The patient’s lifestyle: Women who smoke or have a history of drug or alcohol abuse may be at a higher risk of developing complications with breast implants.
- The patient’s health: Women with certain medical conditions, such as immune disorders or connective tissue disorders, may be more likely to develop complications with breast implants.
- The surgeon’s skill: The experience and expertise of the surgeon can play a role in the success and durability of breast implants.
It’s important to note that breast implants are not considered to be permanent. Even with the most durable silicone implants, it’s possible that they will need to be replaced at some point in the future. This is because the body can still react to the implant, causing scar tissue to form around it. Over time, this scar tissue can cause the implant to harden, become misshapen, or cause discomfort for the patient.
How Often Do Breast Implants Need to be Replaced?
The frequency with which breast implants need to be replaced varies depending on the factors mentioned above. In general, however, most women can expect their breast implants to last for several years before needing to be replaced. The average lifespan of breast implants is around 10 years, but some women may need to have
