(GoHealthier.com)
Breast implants may seem to be completely innocuous and a routine surgery, but breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime and keeping them for more than 10 years can pose potential risks. While many women have implants that last longer without issues, there are several reasons why it can become dangerous to keep them for too long:
1. Implant Rupture
• Saline Implants: If a saline implant ruptures, the body absorbs the saline, and the breast may deflate noticeably.
• Silicone Implants: Ruptures in silicone implants are often “silent” (asymptomatic) because the silicone gel may stay within the scar tissue capsule around the implant. However, over time, this can lead to issues like pain, changes in breast shape, or inflammation.
2. Capsular Contracture
• Over time, scar tissue naturally forms around the implant. In some cases, this tissue hardens, compressing the implant, causing pain, and distorting the breast’s appearance. This risk increases the longer implants remain in place.
3. Implant Wrinkling or Folding
• As implants age, they may begin to wrinkle or fold, which can lead to changes in the appearance of the breast and, in some cases, discomfort.
4. Breast Tissue Changes
• The breast tissue and skin around the implant may stretch or sag over time due to aging, weight changes, or gravity. This can affect the implant’s position, creating an unnatural look or causing discomfort.
5. Leakage or Gel Migration
• If silicone implants rupture, the silicone gel can migrate outside the implant and into surrounding tissues, potentially leading to complications like granulomas, scarring, or systemic inflammation.
6. Increased Risk of Complications
• The risk of complications such as infection, implant displacement, or even implant rupture increases with time. Most manufacturers and surgeons suggest regular check-ups or imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, every few years to assess the condition of the implants, especially after 10 years.
7. Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)
• Though rare, textured breast implants have been linked to a form of cancer called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which can develop in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The risk increases over time.
Conclusion:
While it’s not inherently dangerous to keep breast implants longer than 10 years, the risk of complications rises as they age. It’s advisable to have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor the condition of the implants and to consider implant replacement or removal if issues arise. Many women replace their implants every 10-15 years due to aesthetic changes or medical concerns. As with anything regarding your health, it is vital to stay aware and proactive.
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