How Long Do Breast Implants Last: Get Answers with Dr. Delatte

by | Dec 16, 2020 | Plastic Surgeon Feature


It is natural to have a variety of questions when researching whether breast augmentation surgery is right for you. Is one type of breast implant better than another? How can I achieve my desired look and feel? What are potential complications? How long do breast implants last? At Delatte Plastic Surgery, Dr. Stephen Delatte takes the time to answer these questions and more as his patients prepare for this life-changing procedure.

Solutions with Dr. Delatte 

Dr. Delatte strives to help his patients feel educated and empowered. Receiving breast implants is a big decision. Since there are several kinds of breast implants available, he is committed to making sure you understand your options. He creates personalized treatment plans for every one of his patients to ensure their individual needs and expectations are met. Dr. Delatte wants you to find the best solution to match your personal preferences.

The Latest Breast Implant Technology 

With his commitment to excellence, Dr. Delatte offers the very latest in breast implant technology, including the new IDEAL IMPLANT® Structured Breast Implant. As an IDEAL IMPLANT Premier Surgeon, he is part of an exclusive group of board-certified plastic surgeons eligible to offer this advanced, new type of breast implant. Breast implants differ in shape, size, and style. The IDEAL IMPLANT is a unique and innovative option for women wanting the peace of mind of saline combined with the natural feel and realistic look of silicone gel.

Three Types of Breast Implants

When seeking a breast augmentation, Dr. Delatte’s patients can choose from unstructured saline, silicone gel, or IDEAL IMPLANT. He is often asked how long do breast implants last? Understanding the structural differences between these three types of implants can answer that question.

  • Unstructured Saline – Saline implants are filled with a sterile, saltwater solution. A woman’s body can harmlessly absorb this solution if an implant ruptures and begins to deflate.
  • Silicone Gel – Silicone gel implants contain a sticky, gel-like substance. If an implant ruptures, the substance becomes trapped in the surrounding tissue. The implant must then be surgically removed and the gel cleaned out. Unfortunately, this kind of rupture can go undetected for years, commonly referred to as a “silent rupture.”
  • IDEAL IMPLANT – IDEAL IMPLANTS are a structured implant that contain no silicone gel. They consist of a series of shells nested together with two separate chambers filled with saline. This advanced internal structure creates a lower risk of implant rupture, plus no possibility of “silent rupture.”

How Long Do Breast Implants Last? 

An eight-year study compared postoperative complication risks between IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants and three brands of silicone gel implants—Allergan, Mentor, and Sientra. The results provide a look into the question, “How long do breast implants last?”

The study concluded: “The cumulative risk of implant rupture or deflation with IDEAL IMPLANT at eight years after primary breast augmentation was only 2.1% in comparison to silicone gel implants from Allergan (7.4%), Mentor (13.6%), and Sientra (7.2%) based on MRI scans. While Structured implants allow women to detect deflation by looking in the mirror and are filled with saline that is safely absorbed by the body, silicone gel breast implants require an MRI scan to detect rupture, which is recommended by FDA every two-three years for life.”  

The Best Choice for You 

Whether you are interested in unstructured saline, silicone gel, or IDEAL IMPLANT, the team at Delatte Plastic Surgery is here for you. They are dedicated to making your breast augmentation the best experience possible. Dr. Delatte opened his practice in 2005 after completing years of education and extensive training. During his general surgery training, Dr. Delatte was awarded the Max S. Rittenbury Intern of the Year for the Department of Surgery, received the Dabney R. Yarbrough III, MD Research Award, elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha Society, and served as Chief Administrative Resident for the department of surgery. Furthermore, Dr. Delatte completed his Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery residency at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics-Madison. Then as part of his core residency training, he studied Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery of the face, head, neck, trunk, and extremities.

 A “Top Notch” Plastic Surgeon 

Dr. Delatte’s patients say it best. As a popular plastic surgeon in the Lafayette area, he is known for his compassionate care and attentive bedside manners. His quality of work is described in these patient reviews:

 “Top notch professionalism, staff and results! Dr. Delatte and his staff made sure I was comfortable with the process, all questions were answered and I was WELL taken care of over the weekend with calls and texts. Following the procedure, the staff made accommodations for my husband’s schedule to remove bandages. The 3D imaging was extremely helpful in choosing the size of implants suitable for my figure therefore, I had no surprises after surgery and am extremely pleased with the outcome! I would HIGHLY recommend Dr. Delatte’s office to anyone who desires plastic surgery or skin care needs!”-RealSelf review by L. Adams

 “Dr. Delatte answered all my questions before I could even ask him, he was very personable, did a great job of making me feel comfortable, and his staff was amazing.” -RealSelf review by ewilli5

 “The results I have gotten are amazing! Dr Delatte never disappoints his patients.” -Facebook review by Tamica Theriot

 “I couldn’t have asked for a more caring, compassionate and exceptionally skilled surgeon. The staff is just as compassionate and so helpful!” -Facebook review by Julia DeRouen Carline

 “Dr Delatte and his staff are absolutely the best!! He is so professional, honest and meticulous. He and his staff listen to the patients’ questions and concerns, then give an objective opinion and recommendation … Thanks for being the best.” -Facebook review by Linda Guy Degal

What are You Waiting For? 

If you have questions, Dr. Delatte has answers. Are you wondering how long do breast implants last? Want to learn about all of your breast implant options? Maybe you are unhappy with your appearance and want to improve an aspect of your body. Or perhaps you are ready to increase your self-confidence and enhance your quality of life. Whatever your reason, Dr. Delatte is the plastic surgeon to trust with all your cosmetic or reconstructive surgery needs.

Considering breast implants in Lafayette? Contact Dr. Stephen Delatte today to discuss your options. Simply call 337-269-4949 or visit drdelatte.com. Dr. Delatte’s office is located at 100 Drury Lane, Lafayette, LA, 70508. Call today for more information on IDEAL IMPLANT Structured Breast Implants.