Prostheses that have an expiration date as the oldest, should be exchanged between 10 to 25 years. Prostheses that are made of cohesive gel generally do not need to be changed anytime soon, although a review every 10 years is necessary. This review consists of performing only an MRI and blood tests to check for an infection.
In any case, the silicone prosthesis should be replaced whenever it represents damage to the health of the individual, whether physical or emotional.
Why change the silicone
Some silicone prostheses must be replaced because they have an expiration date, are broken or misplaced. Situations in which the prosthesis is generating wrinkles or folds in the skin can occur in large prostheses, when they are placed on individuals with very thin skin and with little fatty tissue to support the skin.
The prosthesis will also need to be replaced if it suffers a rupture caused by automobile accidents, in case of perforation by "stray bullets" or accident in extreme sport. In these situations, even if there is no visible damage, an MRI scan may show the problem.
Another situation in which the silicone prosthesis has to be changed is when the individual gets fat or loses a lot and the prosthesis is poorly located, due to the increase in sagging, in this case, it may be necessary to perform a facelift associated with the placement of a new prosthesis..
What happens if you don't switch
If the silicone prosthesis is not changed within the recommended period, there may be a small rupture and micro leakage of the silicone that causes inflammation in the surrounding tissues, and it may even be necessary to scrape to remove part of this tissue.
This infection, when not properly treated, can worsen and spread over a large area, further compromising the individual's health.
Where to change
The silicone prosthesis must be changed in a hospital environment, with a team of plastic surgeons. The doctor who initially placed the prosthesis can perform the surgery, but it is not mandatory that you do it. Another plastic surgeon with the necessary knowledge will be able to remove the old prosthesis and put on the new silicone prosthesis.
