How long do implants last?
 

Haven't been on the board in several years.........

Does anyone know when you have to change your implants?

I have a silicon/saline combo. A silicon implant surrounded by a saline barrier for protection. I've had it 7 years. I've been reading that they should be replaced somewhere between year 10 - 15 depending on the level of risk that you are willing to take with them. But the posts are old, so don't know if those figures are current.

Anybody got any info/advice?

Re: How long do implants last?
 

My sister just had hers "installed"...or placed. The P.S. told her the average life expectancy is 10 years, and MRI's should be used to monitor them. Mine is leaking silicone at 9 years, but I am not a candidate for replacement right now!

Re: How long do implants last?
 

Sheila,

Why aren't you a candidate?

Melanie

Re: How long do implants last?
 

My implants are saline, and have been in place for almost 27 years. I don't recall there being any speculation about how long they would last, but because they are saline filled, there shouldn't be any long term bad effect when they eventually leak. I have a friend whose implant leaked shortly after implantation (same implant and same Doc), so I think there must be some "luck" involved. I am supposing that I will need a "revamp" eventually.

Barb A.

Re: How long do implants last?
 

Melanie,

I imagine with Sheila's on going treatment which has at times left her a bit "war weary" with low counts and such that a surgery that is not absolutely imperative is not wise.

I must confess I am disappointed to hear it is leaking at just 9 years. I had hoped that was a bit like the expiration dates on meds and most canned goods, just an arbitrary date selected rather than an actual water mark. Darn. I just am really reluctant to toe up to the line for anymore surgeries. Ah well....survivorship....sigh.

Re: How long do implants last?
 

The link below says implants last 10-25 years:

http://www.plasticsurgeryportal.com/...lants-last/270

Re: How long do implants last?
 

Thanks for everyone's feedback. Especially that link Jacky07!

It looks like I've got at least another 3 years before I have to start worrying. Haven't been to the plastic surgeon since they were placed, and I noticed that they are suggesting that you see him for a check-up every year. But don't know a single person who has actually done that, so that might be overly cautious.

Re: How long do implants last?
 

How come you aren't eligible for replacement if you are leaking? That sounds very dangerous!