Replacing aging implants

joanquilts

I had a BMX about 14 years ago with expanders leading to implants about six months later. I’ve had absolutely no issues with my implants and based on MRIs, my implants are intact. 

However, my breast surgeon wants me to start thinking about replacing the implants because they typically last about as long as I’ve had them. I am 68 and in very good health and she feels that I should have surgery while I’m still young and fit enough to withstand it easily. My plastic surgeon.says there are no guidelines for this sort of thing - he hates to mess with implants that aren’t posing any problems, but it’s true about having them replaced while on the younger side. 

Any experiences with this sort of thing?

moderators

Hi @joanquilts, we wanted to bump your post to give it a little more visibility. 💗 Hopefully some members with similar experiences will see it and be able to share their thoughts with you.

The Mods

livinglifenow

@joanquilts , like you, I had BMX with expanders and then implants 6 months later. That was 16 years ago. Because I had very thin skin, my plastic surgeon said it was best to have silicone implants instead of saline. What kind do you have?

Also, like you, I have had no issues with my implants and past MRIs have all been fine. Eight years after my initial diagnosis I moved across the country. I continued to have MRIs, my last one 5 years ago.

I did see a new plastic surgeon 5 years ago and he recommended replacing the implants in the next few years. One thing I recall was that he suggested a new type of procedure that sounded very invasive. With my thin skin I felt I might be asking for trouble by doing anything, unless it was absolutely necessary.

Two years ago I was diagnosed with MBC, so haven’t even considered major surgery, stopping medications for surgery, or having surgery given I have no issues. I am about the same age as you, very healthy and in excellent shape, like you.

Interestingly, I recently got a new OB/GYN and he suggested I have a total hysterectomy “in case tamoxifen might cause uterine cancer,” even with no symptoms or issues. Tamoxifen has a VERY low risk of uterine cancer, especially with no symptoms. I sometimes feel that doctors like to practice surgeries on us.

I tend to go with the old adage: “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it.”

I don’t know what might be best in your situation. For me, I don’t want to spend my golden years recovering from unnecessary surgeries. However, if you feel it is for the best in your situation, having it done while you are younger and still very healthy is important.

Wishing you all the best.

Hugs, Pam 💗