What Happens If You Don’t Replace Breast Implants?

If breast implants are not replaced over time, there’s an increased risk of complications such as rupture, capsular contracture, and aesthetic changes. While implants don’t have an expiry date, they are not considered lifetime devices. Below is a breakdown of what to expect if implants are left in for too long.

Do Implants Really Need Replacing?

Manufacturers often state implants last 10–15 years, but many patients keep them longer without issues.
Replacement isn’t mandatory on a strict timeline, it depends on symptoms, scan findings, or aesthetic goals.
Most replacements occur due to a problem or preference, not a routine time frame.

Potential Risks Over Time

Complication	Risk Increases With Time?	Common Symptoms
Capsular Contracture	Yes	Firmness, distortion, pain
Implant Rupture	Yes	Silent in some cases, visible in others
Aesthetic Changes	Yes	Sagging, rippling, shape change
BIA-ALCL (rare)	Yes (mainly textured)	Swelling, fluid build-up (uncommon)

Older implants are more likely to fail or shift position. Imaging such as MRI or ultrasound is recommended after 10 years to assess their condition.

How Do You Know It’s Time to Replace?

Change in breast shape or firmness
Pain, swelling, or discomfort
Imaging shows rupture or leakage
Personal choice to switch size, type, or remove implants

Some patients also choose implant removal with or without a breast lift if their goals change over time.

Are Ruptured Implants Dangerous?

Saline rupture is harmless but leads to rapid deflation
Silicone rupture may be “silent” and go unnoticed without imaging
Ruptured silicone implants should be removed, even if no symptoms are present

There’s no evidence that a ruptured silicone implant causes long-term illness, but removal is recommended.

Cost of Implant Replacement in Dubai

Procedure Type	Estimated Cost (AED)
Implant Replacement (standard)	30,000 – 45,000
Removal with Breast Lift	35,000 – 55,000
Complex Revision	45,000+

Cost depends on whether new implants are inserted, additional procedures are needed, or complications are present.

Can You Just Leave Them In?

Yes, but only if scans show no rupture and the patient has no symptoms. However, older implants do carry higher risks and should be monitored periodically. A long-term plan should always include imaging and surgical follow-up to ensure safety.

Dr Parviz Sadigh (MB ChB FRC)

Dr Parviz Sadigh is a UK-trained Consultant Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in advanced facial and body procedures. He specialises in aesthetic surgery tailored to natural-looking results, and is known for his meticulous approach and international standard of care. Now based in Dubai, Dr Sadigh works with patients from around the world seeking high-level expertise, safety, and artistry in plastic surgery.