There’s a common misconception that breast implants need replacement every 10 years, but that’s not always true. While your body and implants do age, they don’t necessarily require replacement. Portsmouth, NH plastic surgeon Anthony Wilson, MD advises that “if they’re not broken …” there’s no need for intervention. However, if you’re considering an implant upgrade, there are several steps you can take to ensure your implants age gracefully. Here are his top tips for maintaining aging implants.
Regular Monitoring and Check-ups
“Regular monitoring is crucial for the health and appearance of breast implants,” says Dr. Wilson. “To maintain breast implants, regular check-ups are crucial. I recommend that patients have their implants evaluated every few years and consider imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, around the 10-year mark. This helps to detect any silent ruptures or issues early on.” These regular evaluations help assess the condition of the implants and surrounding tissue.
“Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding significant weight fluctuations and following your surgeon’s guidelines can help prolong the life of your implants,” he notes.
Skin Care and Moisturization
“Keeping the skin over the implants healthy is essential for maintaining a youthful and natural appearance,” advises Dr. Wilson. He recommends using high-quality moisturizers and skin-care products to maintain skin elasticity and hydration. Products rich in hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants can help keep the skin supple and reduce the look of lines and wrinkles.
Nonsurgical Lifting Techniques
“For those looking to enhance the appearance of their breasts without surgery, nonsurgical lifting techniques can be very effective,” notes Dr. Wilson. Treatments like radio frequency and ultrasound therapy can stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, providing a subtle lift. “These procedures are noninvasive and can be done in the office with minimal downtime,” he adds.
Fat Grafting
“As implants age, patients have several options. Some may choose to replace them with newer implants, while others might opt for a different type of augmentation or even removal. It’s important to have a detailed consultation to discuss the best approach based on the patient’s individual needs and goals. Fat grafting is an excellent option for patients who want to enhance their breast volume or shape without replacing their implants,” says Dr. Wilson. This procedure involves taking fat from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and injecting it into the breasts. “It’s a natural way to add volume and can be used to smooth out any irregularities or asymmetries,” he explains.
Mesh Support for Implants
“Using mesh support can help maintain the position and shape of aging implants,” suggests Dr. Wilson. “Meshes, like the sugar-based mesh we use, act as an internal bra, supporting the implants and preventing them from sagging.”
This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who experience implant displacement or wish to avoid more surgery. “It helps create support and reconstruct breasts that have gone through prior surgeries, most of them cosmetic, but also reconstructive,” he explains.
Dr. Wilson concludes, “This approach redistributes the weight of the implants more evenly and can provide a lift, enhancing the overall appearance of the breasts.”
The most important thing is that patients are aware that implants are not lifetime devices and may require maintenance, says Dr. Wilson. “Breast implants, like any medical device, have a lifespan and will age over time. It’s essential to monitor them regularly to ensure they remain in good condition and to address any changes or concerns promptly.”
