Sydney Plastic Surgeon, Dr Damian Marucci, recently responded to this common question on the breast.com.au forum.
The original question was:
Hello, I had my implants about 8 years ago and think at the time I was told that they should be changed at approx the 10 year mark. Does anyone know if this is still what is being advised? I have round saline Mentor implants.
And Dr Marucci’s reply was:
There is a common misconception that breast implants need to be “changed” every 10 years. The good news is that this is NOT true! Breast implants only need to be changed if there is a problem. If you are concerned about your implants, make an appointment to see your friendly local plastic surgeon.
To read the full quote, click here.
Fotunately, complications following breast augmentation are relatively uncommon. Long term potential complications include
- implant rupture – this is where a hole develops in the shell of the implant
- capsular contracture – the body forms a wall or capsule around any forgeign material. Following breast augmenation surgery, a firm capsule may develop causing distortion, firmness and discomfort.
- implant infection – any foreign materal in the body can potentially become infected. It is important to take a course of antibiotics with any other surgery or dental work following rbeast augmentation
- changes of the shape of the breast over the implant – the implant doesn’t change with time, but the overlying tissue does
Dr Marucci is a specialist plastic and cosmetic surgeon with rooms in Kogarah and Caringbah, servicing southern Sydney and the shires of St George, Sutherland, Rockdale and Botany. If you are interested in breast augmentation/ breast implant surgery in Sydney, or if you have breast implants and are in need of revisional breast surgery, Dr Marucci is a highly trained and respected practitioner in the field.
