How long do implants last?

[canihelp]

I have had breast implants for 20 years and they seem to be fine so far.  I've really had no problems for the whole 20 years.  They are celicone.  I have been told they should be replaced every so often, but don't want to go thru a surgery that is not absolutely necessary.  What is your opinion on this subject?

I am now 51. I have PVCs, so want to avoid any stress.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Assuming that you feel no changes in your breasts or the underlying implants, and that you are comfortable with your appearance, I would not do anything.  With your silicone implants 20 years old, there is certainly a possibility of disruption of the silicone shell.  If this is the case, any free silicone will be contained within the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implants.  This is not dangerous.  Soemtimes mammography will detect this, but often not.  The more definite test would be an MRI of the breast.  

Unless you are nervous about a potential leak or actually notice changes, I see no reason to undergo expensive tests or additional surgery at this time.

[Rawme]

I am so happy for you I got my implants in 2000 & hope I can say the same thing when I am ur age. I bet ur hot momma!

[canihelp]

thank you very much for your advise.  I'll continue to watch for any changes & have my mammograms each year.