Toronto Breast Augmentation – How Long Do Today’s Implants Last?

Misconceptions About Lifespan Of Breast Implants

Many patients are under the impression that they will need to undergo an additional Toronto breast augmentation procedure every ten years to replace their existing breast implants. This myth stems from problems associated with early generations of silicone implants, which did not have the long lifespan that modern implants have today. Previously, silicone implants were comprised of a runny silicone gel encased in a thin outer shell, which was susceptible to leaking and tearing. As a result, when silicone implants were first introduced, they had a high leak rate.

In addition, the leaking silicone frequently caused capsular contracture, as the body naturally responds to the presence of silicone gel by forming thickened scar tissue, causing the breast to feel firm or even hard. Because of this risk, it was previously advisable to replace breast implants every ten years as a precautionary measure, particularly since it was believed that the rupture rate increased ten years postoperatively. However, today’s silicone implants are so durable and long lasting that they come with a lifetime warranty by the manufacturer.

Another common misconception about breast implants is that they should be replaced every ten years to prevent the development of fungus. This myth is a result of a small number of cases in which saline implants were not filled in a sterile manner. However, this risk is completely mitigated by today’s silicone implants.

Modern Breast Implants

Unlike the implants of the past, modern silicone implants are comprised of a cohesive gel encased in a strong outer shell which is resistant to tearing. Because of the firm consistency of the silicone gel in today’s breast implants, even in the rare event of a rupture, the silicone will not usually leak into the surrounding breast tissue. As a result, patients who chose to undergo a breast augmentation in Toronto can have peace of mind knowing that their breast implants are designed to last a lifetime.

This means that in most cases, it is not necessary to replace your implants every so often. However, in the event of a leak within the first ten years of your procedure, the manufacturer’s warranty will cover your revision procedure in addition to replacing the implants. Although modern implants will stand the test of time, this ten-year rupture stipulation often causes patients to incorrectly assume that implants should be replaced every ten years.