Nina S. Naidu, MD, FACS Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions: Breast Implants 1. How long do breast implants last? Breast implants are man-made synthetic devices, so they will wear out with time. In general, the shell of the implant begins to wear out at ten years, but in some cases the implant remains intact for 20 years or longer. In these cases, I recommend leaving the implant alone. 2. What should be my main concerns when choosing breast implant sizes? Measuring for breast implants is based upon the patient’s anatomy and tissue characteristics. The most important factors I examine are the base width of the breast, and the amount of tissue stretch in the breast. A patient with a narrow width to her breast and tight tissues will need a smaller implant than a patient with loose tissue and a wider breast after breastfeeding. 3. Breast sizes are typically measured by bra cup sizes, is this a good way to choose a breast implant size? If not, what is the best way? Cup sizes vary widely from one manufacturer to the next, so this is an unreliable way to choose an implant size. It is nonetheless helpful for the surgeon if you can state approximately what cup size you hope to attain, in order to get an idea of your goals. The best way to choose a size