Sifting through Myths about Breast Implants

It seems that whenever a topic, idea, or type of treatment becomes exceedingly popular, myths about it are bound to develop. Breast augmentation is a prime example. This procedure was first developed more than 50 years ago, with the first silicone implant procedure performed in 1962. The procedure has evolved since that time. Also, over those many years, a particularly interesting myth sprouted:

Silicone breast implants last only 10 years.

If you were to believe this, you might think twice (and then some) about whether or not you wanted curves and symmetry that badly. Fortunately, there is little merit to the idea. Let’s look at the cold, hard, facts.

Due to inconsistent results from silicone breast implants many years ago, the FDA performed a study on their safety. 100 cases were studied. What was found was that 1 of every 5 women in the study needed breast augmentation revision after approximately 10 years, for reasons such as rupture or capsular contraction. That leaves the other 80% in the study happily living with healthy breast implants. To view this data and perceive that all breast implants last only 10 years would be a mistake.

The Bottom Line

There is no definitive answer to whether a patient may need breast implant revision at any given time. Every case is different. From statistics, though, we see that a large percentage of patients do not require follow-up surgery to replace silicone breast implants.

An important detail that should be noted when considering the longevity of silicone breast implants is that we do not use the same types of silicone structures that were assessed in the FDA study. That report was published in 2011, and several new forms of silicone implants have been developed since then, including form-stable silicone that is more resilient than older models.

Finally, upkeep in the form of self-exams and medical breast exams, including mammogram, is necessary to monitor the condition of implants over time. Changes may indicate the need for replacement.

Your Rancho Mirage cosmetic surgeon Dr. Maria Lombardo is happy to answer your questions about breast augmentation. Call 760-610-8990 to schedule a private consultation.