It is impossible to tell someone exactly how long their implants may last. It is possible that it could be for a lifetime. However, I tell my patients that they should not have breast implants placed unless they are open to having another surgery some time in their lifespan. Patients do need to understand that breast implants can ‘fail’, i.e., a saline implant can deflate and a silicone implant can ‘rupture’.
One will readily notice if their saline implant is deflating as their breast will become smaller withing a few hours to few days. Ruptured silicone implants may cause some sort of physical deformity or hardening of the breast; however, many times the rupture is considered ’silent’ as their is no visible evidence of a rupture. MRIs are the best way to detect a ruptured silicone implant, however, ultrasounds or mammograms may also detect ruptured silicone implants to a lesser degree.
