When it comes to breast implants, whether or not it is cheaper to have them replaced depends on several factors, such as the type of implant, how long you’ve had them, and any complications you may have experienced.
The cost of replacing breast implants can vary widely since there are a number of different types of implants available. Typically, patients will pay more for implants with a longer shelf life and that provide more benefits.
Most replacement surgeries cost between $2,500 and $7,000 on average.
The cost of replacement surgery may also depend on any previous complications you have experienced with your implants. This can include any infections, or disease that may have been present when the initial surgery took place.
If any of these have occurred, it can mean additional costs for the surgery because extra time and materials may be needed to address any existing issues.
Ultimately, the cost of replacing breast implants can vary significantly based on the type of implant, type of surgery, and any existing health concerns. It’s best to talk to your doctor or surgeon to discuss the best type of implant for you, to go over the risks and benefits of replacement surgery, and to gain an estimate of how much the procedure will cost.
What happens if you don’t get your breast implants replaced?
Not getting your breast implants replaced can have numerous consequences, depending on the type of implants and the length of time they have been in. If saline implants rupture, the saline will usually be naturally absorbed by the body, which often requires additional surgery to remove any scar tissue.
If a silicone implant ruptures, the silicone can leak into the body and cause health complications, such as generalized pain and local inflammation. In some cases the silicone particles will be pulled up through the lymphatic system and cause silicone granulomas.
In addition to health concerns, not replacing breast implants can affect your breast shape and size. The implants may shift in position over time, leading to a misshapen or asymmetrical appearance. There is also a risk of the implant pocket forming “bottoming out”, which represents a weakness in the lower pole of the chest wall resulting in excessive drooping or sagging of the implant.
If replacement is not done, the chance of developing a capsular contracture increases, which is when the capsule of scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and contracts, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, painful, and possibly tender to the touch.
Long-term monitoring of breast implants is always recommended to make sure they remain in optimal condition and provide you with the desired results. It is important to discuss the implant replacement schedule with your doctor and to follow-up regularly.
What happens to breast implants after 20 years?
The lifespan of breast implants is generally 10-15 years, however some women may choose to replace them after this time. After 20 years, the implant(s) may degrade and need to be replaced with new ones.
Breast implants can be vulnerable to wear and tear over time due to pressure, friction, and exposure to bodily fluids. Signs of wear and tear can include feeling hard or stiff, wrinkling, and rupturing.
When a woman has implants that are 20 years or older, the chances of them rupturing or experiencing a change in texture increase significantly. Additionally, if a woman has implants that are 20 years or older it is highly recommended she keep an eye on them and seek advice from a plastic surgeon once every 5-7 years.
Regular MRI scans can help to monitor the state of the implant, and if needed, it is best to replace them in order to avoid potential health risks.
Should I get my breast implants removed or replaced?
The decision whether to remove or replace breast implants should be made on an individual basis, based on your specific circumstances, health status, and desired outcome. It is important to talk to your doctor and assess the risks of either procedure before making a decision.
Generally speaking, there are several factors that could influence the need to remove or replace breast implants.
If you are unsatisfied with the cosmetic outcome or have experienced any complications, then you might consider replacement. Depending on the age of your implants, scar tissue may have formed around them and the surrounding tissue may have become hardened, making replacement a more complex procedure.
In some cases, the implant itself may be leaking, rupturing, or has shifted significantly which can cause pain, implant deflation, or other cosmetic issues. If this is the case, implant removal is likely necessary to address these issues.
Additionally, implants may need to be removed if a biopsy reveals that the silicone has caused an autoimmune response or other medical issue.
Finally, you could choose to remove your implants simply because you no longer desire to have them.
Before making a decision, it is important to discuss the potential risks and outcomes of removal or replacement. It is also essential to explore the FDA approved breast implant options with your physician and get a clear understanding of the procedure that would achieve your desired outcome.
How painful is it to replace breast implants?
The exact level of pain associated with replacing breast implants will vary depending on the individual person, the type of procedure they are having, and their healing process. Generally speaking, however, there is usually some level of discomfort associated with replacing breast implants.
This discomfort can be managed with pain killers, local anesthesia, and general anxiety-management therapies provided by your surgeon and/or a specialist.
Many people undergoing breast implant replacement will feel some pain and tightness for the first few days, but this should subside over time. The pain can range from mild to severe and may include soreness, bruising, swelling, and tightness in the chest area.
In some cases, there might be slight pain or numbness in the nipple and areola areas. This is because the nerves in these areas are connected to the implant and can be damaged during surgery.
In other cases, there’s also the potential for post-surgical complications, such as infection or scarring. Those who experience pain due to post-surgical complications may need additional treatment that could include antibiotics and/or additional surgery.
The best way to reduce the likelihood of experiencing pain during and after breast implant replacement surgery is to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide you with a customized surgical plan that takes into account your needs and history.
Does insurance pay for breast implant removal?
Yes, insurance can pay for breast implant removal depending on the circumstances. Generally, insurance companies will only pay for the removal of breast implants if they were used to reconstruct the breast following a mastectomy due to cancer or another medical condition.
If the reason for the removal surgery is cosmetic or aesthetic in nature, then it is unlikely to be covered by insurance.
Additionally, insurance may also cover breast implant removal if there are complications related to the implant such as infection, capsular contracture, or implant rupture. Finally, patients should check with their insurance companies for specific coverage details, as some insurance policies may have exclusions for breast implant removal.
Do breast implants get saggy with age?
Yes, most breast implants will get saggy with age, just like natural breasts do. The degree of sagging can vary depending on the patient’s individual factors, such as skin texture and elasticity, as well as the type of implant material, size, and placement of the implants.
For example, implants placed above the muscle will tend to sag more than implants placed underneath the muscle. In addition, larger implants take longer for the skin and ligaments to accommodate the additional weight, leading to more sagging.
The lifetime of an implant can also depend on the specific implant material used. Saline implants generally last from 10 to 12 years, while silicone implants can last up to 20 years. Additionally, over time, the implant shell may weaken, leading to deflation and causing the breasts to sag further.
To reduce the risk of sagging, patients should opt for an appropriate implant size, adhere to any post-surgical instructions, and make sure to follow-up with their plastic surgeon on a regular basis.
At what age should you remove breast implants?
The decision ultimately comes down to the individual and their particular circumstances. Generally speaking, breast implants typically last between 10 to 15 years before replacing or removing them is recommended.
However, the lifestyle and activity level of the individual may require implants to be removed earlier or later than this timeline. For example, individuals who have a higher activity level may need to have their implants replaced sooner than those who lead a less active lifestyle.
Additionally, some implants may have a shorter lifespan than others, so you should be sure to discuss the recommended timeline for your particular type of implant with your doctor. Ultimately, the individual should do what is best for their health and lifestyle with the guidance of their healthcare provider.
Can old breast implants cause health issues?
Yes, old breast implants can cause health issues, especially if they were placed before the mid-1990s. Since the 1950s, when silicone breast implants were first introduced, they have been filled with a variety of materials, including saline and silicone.
Eventually, some of these materials were found to be potentially dangerous, resulting in medical problems and related health issues. Issues resulting from old breast implants include leaking, which can cause inflammation and a number of other medical issues.
Breast implant illness (BIL) is another potential issue caused by old breast implants. Symptoms of BIL include fatigue, joint pain, depression, and neurological issues. If you have old breast implants and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact your health care provider.
Can a mammogram pop breast implants?
No, a mammogram should not be able to pop breast implants. During a mammogram, pressure is applied to the breasts, however it is only a moderate amount and is far less than necessary to cause a rupture in breast implants.
Implant ruptures are often caused by trauma, such as a direct blow to the chest, or due to the normal wear and tear of aging. Additionally, certain types of breast implants are designed to be extra-durable and are FDA approved – meaning that they should never burst.
Furthermore, during a mammogram, the technologist will use gentle technique to ensure that the patient is as comfortable as possible. That includes not applying too much pressure on the implant as this could lead to complications.
As long as the technologist is following base-line standard operating procedures, the mammogram should not pop the implant.
Is second breast augmentation cheaper?
The cost of a second breast augmentation will depend on a few factors, such as the type of procedure or implants used. Some doctors may offer discounts for a patient’s second surgery, as the doctor is likely familiar with the patient and their anatomy.
The complexity of the procedure can also affect the overall cost, as procedures involving an implant exchange or adjustments may cost more. Additionally, the location of the practice, surgeon’s experience, and geographical area may also make a difference.
Ultimately, the cost of a second breast augmentation can vary and may depend on the individual details of the procedure.
Can you get a 2nd breast augmentation to go bigger?
Yes, it is possible to get a second breast augmentation to go bigger. However, you should talk to your plastic surgeon about the risks and benefits of having a second breast augmentation procedure, since there can be more risks for a second surgery.
Your surgeon should also make sure that your body is in good health, as well as discuss your expectations for the surgery. Factors such as how much larger you want to be, how much your body can handle, and if any additional procedures may be needed to get you to your desired outcome should all be taken into consideration.
In addition, you should discuss the type of implant you want to use. Silicone implants are typically preferred because they are resilient and create a natural look with long-lasting results. Once you get your surgeon’s approval, they can provide you with an estimate on the cost of the surgery and what to expect during the recovery period.
Ultimately, making sure you are well-informed of the risks and costs associated with a breast augmentation procedure is essential in taking the right steps to making a bigger change.
Is breast implant revision cheaper?
Generally, the cost of a breast implant revision is less expensive than the cost of a breast augmentation. This is primarily because the revision procedure is usually less complex and requires fewer materials than the original augmentation procedure.
When considering the cost of a revision procedure, many factors come into play. These include the type of implants and procedure being used, the complexity of the revision, and the surgeon’s experience.
Some of these factors may also raise or lower the cost. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover the cost of a revision procedure while they do not typically cover the cost of an augmentation.
Ultimately, the cost of any procedure will vary based on individual circumstances and our financial advisors are happy to provide personalized quotes over the phone or via email.
How long is recovery for 2nd breast augmentation?
The amount of time it takes to recover from a second breast augmentation will vary depending on the individual, however a typical recovery should take between four and six weeks. During this time some physical activities and exercise may be limited.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care as well as any physical therapy protocols prescribed. It may take up to two months to return to full physical activity and to fully understand the results of the procedure.
Swelling and discomfort should gradually decrease following the surgery. Patients are typically advised to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for about four to six weeks. Wearing a properly fitted post-operative garment can help support the area and reduce swelling, as well as help the breasts settle into the desired shape.
Proper rest and nutrition are also important elements of a successful recovery and will help reduce overall recovery time.
How long does a breast revision take?
A breast revision surgery typically takes 2-3 hours. The exact length depends on the complexity of the case and the number of procedures being performed. The specific techniques used will also influence the amount of time the surgery takes.
Generally, the goal of the surgery is to improve the look and shape of the breasts in order to achieve the desired aesthetic result. During the breast revision, incisions may be made to remove excess skin, move the nipple and tissue to achieve a more proportionate and symmetric breast shape, and adjust existing implants if necessary.
In some cases, additional procedures such as a breast lift or fat transfer may also be performed. After all of the procedures are complete, the incisions will be closed and you will be taken to a recovery area to be monitored.
