Is It Time To Replace My Saline Breast Implants That Are 16 Years Old?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a former patient of yours when you performed a breast augmentation/breast lift with saline implants in 2004.

I have experienced some changes to my breasts in recent months.  I have lost fullness at the top of both breasts and can now feel both implants along the bottom folds and lower sides of both breasts. Both breasts are still symmetrical and of equal size and fullness. The changes do not appear to be a result of deflating.

I can only assume that I need to consider replacing my implants.

I do not anticipate the need for additional lift or procedures as my nipples are in place.

I would like to inquiry about the general cost associated for a replacement breast implant surgery to determine if I want to move forward with a consultation at this time.

Any information would be appreciated.

A: Good to hear from you after all these years. With 16 years of service out of your indwelling saline breast implants that is getting them into more ‘senior citizen’ range as very few saline implants make it to 20 years without deflating. Replacing them with highly cohesive silicone implants will restore upper pole fullness as well as improve much of their wrinkling. My assistant Camille will pass along the cost of the surgery as part of this email.

The good news is that, unlike the first time which involved making the tissue pockets, they are already established so you should have minimal to zero pain with their replacements.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis,Indiana