Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation

How long will my implants last?

Your implants will probably not last as long as you do. It is likely that one or both of your implants will require replacement at some point in your lifetime due to deflation (saline) or rupture (silicone gel). Most implants will last at least 10 to 15 years. In the absence of an implant-related problem, there is no need to “change out” your implants (i.e. if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it).

Are ruptured implants dangerous?

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. Upon deflation, the saline is absorbed harmlessly. There is no known health risk associated with deflated saline implants.

The FDA has determined that intact silicone gel implants are safe. However, they have not made a determination regarding the safety of ruptured silicone gel implants. Therefore, the FDA currently recommends that any ruptured silicone gel implant be removed.

Can implants cause breast cancer?

Multiple published studies demonstrate absolutely no link between breast implants and the development of breast cancer.

Can implants interfere with mammograms?

Implants may reduce the sensitivity of mammograms. This is a greater concern for implants placed above muscle than those placed below muscle. In order to better visualize the breast tissues, additional mammography views (such as the Eklund displacement view) are recommended. Of interest, implants may actually make it easier to detect breast lumps on physical exam.

What is “overfilling” an implant?

All saline implants ripple. Most surgeons overfill implants (for example, fill a 300 cc implant to 330 cc) to reduce rippling. Overfilling does not compromise the integrity of the implant. However, overfilling a 300 cc implant to 450 cc is not reasonable, as it will make the implant look and feel “hard.”

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