Over time, breast implants can change shape or size, and the overlying breast tissue can also vary, creating an appearance or feel to the breast that is less desirable than the first result. Therefore, many women will replace or update their breast implants at around 10-year. Also, many breast implants have a lifetime warranty on the implant device. Still, after ten years, the costs associated with having surgery to replace the implants are no longer covered.
Breast implant removal surgery aims to remove breast implants from breast augmentation or breast reconstruction patients. During these procedures, the surgeon may also remove silicone material from implant leaks and the breast capsule, which is the scar tissue that forms after the placement of a breast implant. Often, the scar tissue that forms after installing an implant is soft and does not need to be removed, but it may harden, causing pain and discomfort. This is often a reason to have the implants and scar tissue removed. Breast implants are not lifelong devices, and it is vital to have them exchanged or removed every 10-15 years. This decision is typically based on the individual and the patient’s needs and desires