Do implants rupture?

Mechanical failure of the mammary implants is possible. The rate of failure is low and should be discussed with your surgeon, including the implant manufacturer’s limited warranty.

Do I have to have my implants changed after a certain number of years?

No. You do not need to change your implants unless there is a problem. The implants have a warranty on them (5-10 years depending on the manufacturer). If they deflate during the warranty, the manufacturer will give you an implant and pay towards replacement.

What can you do to correct asymmetries or differences between the breasts?

Nearly everyone I have examined has some asymmetry in their breasts. Sometimes these differences are subtle and other times they are more pronounced. It can be a difference in size, height of the nipple, amount of drooping, height of the breast fold, contour of the ribs, height of the shoulder tips, etc. Many times we can attempt to correct or improve upon the asymmetries. This can be done by lowering a fold, place slightly more saline on one side, etc. Most of the time, there are subtle asymmetries before and after surgery.

Do breast implants cause you to get breast cancer?

No. Breast implants do not cause breast, or any other cancer. Studies have shown that women who get breast cancer and have implants have the same outcome as women that get breast cancer and do not have implants. You still should get mammograms as recommended by your physician. Notify your mammographer that you have implants as they will do a few special views to maximize the mammogram.

Do you put the implant under or over the muscle?

I typically put the implant behind or under the pectoralis major muscle. There are several reasons for this. I believe that it looks much more natural. There is more tissue between the implant and the outside world. There is less chance of complications. There is more support for the implant to protect against drooping. But, most of all, the mammogram is better when the implant is under the muscle.