I had silicone implants 10 years ago, can I have a lift without replacing the implants?

Yes! As long as the implants are in good shape and in good position a lift can be done. You would need an exam and consultation to see what was best for you. One major issue is preserving the blood flow to the nipple areolar complex. The Smart Beauty Guide should help you to find someone in your area that is an expert in cosmetic breast surgery. Best of Luck!

Breast implants have an outer shell that is warrantied for 10 years. After 10 years the shell has a higher risk for rupture. If sagging is an issue for you, it would make the most logical sense at this point in time to change out the implant, or remove it, and have a breast lift for a youthful looking perky breast that will be long- lasting. I am often surprised at how attractive and full a breast can look after implants are removed with simulatanous breast lift so that as you continue to age you don't have the burden of another surgery to remove or replace the implant.

If you are planning on having a Breast Lift, this is the perfect opportunity to replace your 10 year old implants. With each passing year the risk that the breast implants will fail increases. To replace the implants is a fairly simple procedure and will not add much surgical time. However, there will be an increase in cost related to replacing the implants. I would discuss your options with your plastic surgeon.

That is an excellent question. Frequently I see patients who are under the impression that implants must be replaced every 10 years. Unless one is having problems such as pain, discomfort or the diagnosis of a rupture, replacement is generally not indicated. To the question you are asking, it will depend on the opinion of the surgeon you consult with about the lift. As part of the lift, the implant position may need to be adjusted, which may very well lead to a replacement of the implants. Discuss the pro and cons of replacement with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Excellent question!
If there is nothing wrong with the implants then it would not be unreasonable to use the same implants. The process of performing the lift may require re-positioning of the implants however. This should have no impact on the implants though and should allow them to be re-used. If at the time of surgery, it is found that there is a rupture of the implant which was not known prior to surgery it would of course need to be replaced. Most likely, since your implant is ten years old it would be covered by the manufacturer's warranty if it is either a Mentor or Allergan implant.

If the implants are soft and otherwise doing well, a simple lift of the skin and soft tissues can help improve the appearance without too much difficulty.