With many safe and effective options available today in professional NYC surgical practices, breast augmentation with implants is growing in popularity. The success rate of the treatment and the positive experiences of those who have undergone it are also prompting many women to go in for breast implants. However, sustaining positive results depends on breast implant maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:
- You know about the circumstances when implant replacement is necessary. Saline implants are supposed to be replaced when they deflate. Similarly, older silicone implants need to be replaced if they rupture or harden.
- It is generally believed that implants need to be replaced after about 10 to 15 years. However, some surgeons advise that replacement is not necessary if they do not present any problem.
- Self monitoring a key step in the maintenance process. If you notice anything unusual with your implants, don’t delay visiting your surgeon for a proper analysis.
- You should follow your surgeon’s instructions on follow-up and check-ups. This can help detect things like scar tissue which forms around the implant, hardening it and changing its shape. The surgeon will remove the scar tissue and reposition your implants.
- Even if everything seems fine outside, women should get the recommended annual breast exam and mammogram. The FDA recommends getting an MRI scan done every 2 to 3 years after breast implant surgery. This will help detect silicone implant rupture.
Breast implants can change due to aging, hormones or weight fluctuations. Regular visits with your plastic surgeon are essential to see what is needed and when. Depending on when you get them first time, you may have to get them replaced once, or even twice, during your lifetime.