I read the information for my silicone gel implants and the life of the implant is about 20 years.

I was told 10 years too which is another reason I thought doing it was a waste of time. Why have to go through that crap every 10 years when you can get a prostetic bra? I researched reconstruction like crazy because from day one that was my plan. But all I read and heard were horror stories of infections, stories of women who said they were uncomfortable and wished they had never done it. Stories of women having them removed because they hated them, stories of infection to the point of having to have one or both taken out. Maybe it's me but I can't see the point. And to be honest, like I said, from day one my an was to have reconstruction. All I can say is, do your homework before making a final decision either way ladies. Read and talk to as many ladies as you can and make your own decision.

I was also told implants can last up to 10 years. The issue is they become "encapsulated" by other tissue causing them to become hard which necessitates the removal and replacement process.

For your friend, there is tons of information on breastcancer.org site. This is where I learned all the options I had for reconstruction. I got to read what other women experienced and made a decision right for me. I went with DIEP reconstruction after my bilateral mastectomy. Very painful recovery but for me, it is worth knowing I should not need to be cut open again to replace impants.

If she is not computer savvy, please give her my phone number. I'd be happy to talk to her. I will see if I can private message that to you...

I was told they last 10 years if I remember right.