Thanks for your question. While modern breast implants are very durable and safe, it’s important to realise that they are not expected to last a lifetime. According to some studies, rupture rates are initially very low and begin to increase about 6-8 years after implantation. The chances of implants rupturing and leaking then gradually increases over time. Although rates do vary, you can expect that after 10 years, there is an approximately 10% chance of implant rupture and leakage occurring. This does vary with the type of implant used.
Therefore, although routine replacement of implants after 10 years may not be necessary, regular follow-up (yearly) is important to assess for implant rupture. Implant leakage sometimes results in changes of size and shape or hardening of the breast due to thickening and hardening of the scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture). However, implant leakage may sometimes be without any signs or symptoms. So, it is important to consider an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan, as this is a sensitive test that can detect even a silent implant leak.
Apart from implant rupture and capsular contracture, one other possible long term risk of breast implants that should be kept in mind is BIA-ALCL (breast implant associated anapaestic large cell lymphoma). This is a rare and treatable cancer that develops in the capsule surrounding the breast implant. Signs to look out for include enlargement and swelling, pain, hardening or a lump.
