Things to Consider Before Getting Breast Implants
The FDA's pre-decision guidance: breast implants are not lifetime devices, additional surgeries are likely over time, and a patient decision checklist should be reviewed with your provider.
What this source says
The FDA explains what to weigh before getting implants — that implants are not permanent, that reoperations should be expected, that an FDA-required patient decision checklist must be reviewed with your provider, and that silicone gel implants should be monitored for silent rupture with MRI or ultrasound.
Why it matters
It frames the expectations and questions the FDA says every patient should understand — useful to read before an appointment.
Key findings
- “Breast implants are not lifetime devices” — the longer they are in place, the more likely removal or replacement becomes.
- Additional surgeries should be anticipated.
- An FDA-required patient decision checklist must be reviewed with your health care provider.
- Silicone gel implants should be monitored for silent rupture with MRI or ultrasound; costs may not be covered by insurance.
Limitations
General guidance for decision-making, not personalized medical advice.
What this does not prove
It does not recommend for or against implants for any individual, and does not address whether implants cause illness.
Source / citation
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) · Current as of March 8, 2023
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/things-consider-getting-breast-implants
Last reviewed against the original source: 2026-09-02. Summaries are written in plain language; the original source is authoritative.
Breast Implant Illness Tracker provides education and organizational tools only and does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment.