One of the most frequently asked questions in the office is whether breast implants “expire”. The short answer is no, at least not like a medication or a product with an exact expiration date. However, they are not considered “lifelong” devices either. Understanding this difference is key to making informed and calm decisions.

The idea of “implant expiration”

‍There is no exact day on which they “expire” or must be compulsorily withdrawn. Modern implants are designed to remain in the body for many years, as long as they are in good condition and do not cause discomfort.

The confusion arises because, with the passage of time, the body changes, technology evolves and so do aesthetic needs. That's why, rather than talking about expiration, we're talking about monitoring, evaluation and long-term decisions.

Why are implants changed?

‍Changing implants doesn't always respond to a medical condition. In fact, in today's practice, many patients decide to do so for personal, aesthetic, or comfort reasons. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Change in size, especially opting for smaller, natural implants
• Evolution of the body after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight changes.
• Technological update, taking advantage of new generation implants.
• Aesthetic adjustments, such as improving shape, projection or symmetry.
• Feeling uncomfortable with implants placed many years ago

In all of these cases, the change is a conscious decision, not a medical obligation.

It is important to consider that There are several medical reasons to change implants, if you have doubts or have symptoms, it is necessary to consult.

Long-term implants: evaluation, not alarm

‍You may not have any symptoms, however, when the implants have been around for 10 or more years, an evaluation is necessary to evaluate their condition and that of the tissues that surround them. This does not mean that they are damaged, but that current medicine prioritizes prevention and long-term planning. The assessment makes it possible to decide if:

• It is convenient to keep them.
• Replace them with others of a different size or shape.
• Adjust the pocket or combine with a lift.

The replacement of implants as an opportunity to decide

An important aspect is that changing implants can also be a good time to rethink the way forward. Some patients take advantage of this stage to consider breast explantation, with or without complementary procedures, when they feel that implants no longer fit their current lifestyle or preferences. It is not a mandatory or universal decision, but it is a valid option that can be evaluated in a calm and personalized way during the consultation.

The importance of a professional assessment

‍Each body, each story and each objective are different. That's why there's no single rule about when to change implants. The decision should be based on:

• The condition of the implants.
• The current anatomy of the bust.
• Your present and future aesthetic expectations.
• Your comfort and well-being.

A professional assessment allows you to resolve doubts, disassemble myths and choose the safest and most consistent option for you. Implants don't expire, but they do require follow-up and ALWAYS require change, the thing is that the time to change them is different for each patient.

Often, this change is not due to a medical condition, but to the natural evolution of the body and personal preferences. If you have implants and are wondering if it's time to change them, maintain them or explore other options, I wait for you in my office in Bogotá for an assessment where you will receive clear, honest and personalized guidance to make the best decision for you