• Overview
• Why have your breast implants checked?
• The breast implant check process
• When to book a check

At The Layt Clinic.

Key Points

• Modern day implants are highly tested and researched for device safety.
• Governing bodies recommend implants should be checked 5 years after implantation and then every 2 to 3 years thereafter.
• Implant check should involve a clinical and ultrasound examination.

Overview

Breast implants are among the most widely used and well-studied medical devices in the world. Over decades, the technology, materials, and surgical techniques have evolved to make modern implants exceptionally safe and durable. However, just like any other medical device or procedure, it’s good practice to have regular reviews to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

The Breast Implant Check Clinic (BICC) at The Layt Clinic provides a dedicated service for women who have breast implants and wish to have the implant checked, whether for reassurance, investigation of symptoms, or to review older implants. The process is simple, confidential, and performed by qualified specialist plastic surgeons and doctors who understand the full scope of breast implant surgery and long-term care. The consultation combines clinical and ultrasound surveillance of the breast implant, checking the implant for capsule integrity, position and movement. This service provides consultation and implant assessment only and is not surgical treatment.

Why Have Your Breast Implants Checked?

There are many reasons why someone may choose to have their implants reviewed. Regular checks can help identify issues early and offer peace of mind that everything is as it should be.

Below are some of the more common reasons patients attend BICC for assessment:

Ageing Implants

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Depending on the type and manufacturer, they may require review after 10-15 years to ensure integrity remains intact. Aged implants can sometimes develop small ruptures or changes that are best identified with imaging and specialist evaluation.

Aesthetic Changes or Concerns

Sometimes patients simply notice a change in the appearance, position, or feel of their implants and wish to have them reviewed. Our surgeons can assess whether these are normal age-related changes or something that requires attention.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when the normal scar tissue that forms around an implant tightens or hardens. This can change the shape or feel of the breast and occasionally cause discomfort. An early review can help determine the severity and discuss potential treatment options.

Surgery Performed Overseas

Patients who have undergone surgery overseas may have limited access to long term follow-up care or documentation about their implants. US governing bodies recommend imaging of breast implants 5-6 years after surgery and then every 2-3 years. Our doctors can assist by reviewing the implants clinically and with ultrasound at 5 years and every 2-3 years thereafter.

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Some individuals report a range of symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, or joint pain that they attribute to their implants. While research into BII is ongoing, our team takes these concerns seriously and can provide guidance, medical assessment, and discussion about possible management options.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)

BIA-ALCL is a very rare type of lymphoma that can develop in the scar tissue and fluid around certain textured breast implants. While the overall risk is extremely low, being aware of the signs, such as sudden swelling, firmness, or fluid accumulation is important. Our surgeons and doctors can assess for any concerns and arrange appropriate imaging or testing if needed.

General Peace of Mind

Even if there are no symptoms or concerns, many people choose to have routine breast implant checks simply to confirm that all is well. A professional review provides reassurance and a baseline for future monitoring. In the US, the FDA recommends that implants should be imaged 5-6 years after surgery and repeated every 2 – 3 years after this.

The Breast Implant Check Process

At the Breast Implant Check Clinic, the process is straightforward and comfortable.

During your visit:

1. Initial Consultation – A detailed medical history, discussion of any concerns, and review information about your implants and general health will be assessed. 
2. Clinical Examination – A physical assessment is performed to check for signs of changes in the breast tissue, implant position, or scarring.
3. Ultrasound Assessment – When appropriate, an ultrasound is used to assess the implant capsule for rupture, fluid collections, or other implant abnormalities.
4. Discussion of Findings – The doctors will explain the results clearly, provide reassurance, and, if necessary, discuss next steps such as further imaging (e.g. MRI) or treatment options.

The process is efficient, typically completed within a single visit, and provides a clear understanding of the health of your implants. This evaluation is the surveillance of breast implant integrity, position, and clinical assessment for the wellbeing of implants, and is not imaging of the surrounding breast tissue.  Should further treatment be required an appointment can be arranged with one of our Plastic Surgeons.

When to Book a Check

It’s generally advisable to consider a breast implant review if:

• It has been over 5 years since your original surgery.
• You’ve noticed a change in shape, firmness, or sensation.
• You experience swelling, pain, or asymmetry.
• You simply want peace of mind that your implants are in good condition and position.

Early assessment and reassurance are always better than waiting for symptoms to develop.

Book Your Breast Implant Check

To arrange your consultation at The Layt Clinic’s Breast Implant Check Clinic, you can contact the clinic directly to schedule a confidential appointment.