Signs Of A Ruptured Breast Implant and What to Do About It

Breast implants are a popular cosmetic surgery option for women looking to enhance their breast size and shape. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications that can arise. One of the most serious complications associated with breast implants is a ruptured implant. It’s essential for women with breast implants to be aware of the signs of a ruptured implant and what to do if they suspect one has occurred.

What is a ruptured breast implant?

A ruptured breast implant occurs when the outer shell of the implant is damaged or torn, causing the silicone gel or saline inside to leak out. There are two types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are more likely to rupture than saline implants, but both types can rupture.

Signs of a ruptured breast implant

The signs of a ruptured breast implant can be subtle, and in some cases, there may be no signs at all. However, some common signs to look out for include:

• Change in breast shape or size: If one breast suddenly appears to be smaller or differently shaped than the other, it could be a sign of a ruptured implant.
• Pain or discomfort: Some women may experience pain or discomfort in their breast or armpit area.
• Lumps or hardening of the breast: A ruptured implant may cause lumps or hardening of the breast tissue.
• Swelling or redness: In some cases, a ruptured implant may cause swelling or redness in the breast area.
• Rippling or wrinkling of the skin: A ruptured implant may cause rippling or wrinkling of the skin on the breast.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s essential to consult a qualified medical professional if you suspect a ruptured implant.

How is a ruptured breast implant diagnosed?

If you suspect a ruptured implant, it’s essential to see a qualified medical professional as soon as possible. They will perform a physical examination and may also recommend additional tests, such as:

• Mammogram: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can help detect a ruptured implant.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast and can help detect a ruptured implant.
• MRI: An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a more sensitive test that can detect a ruptured implant and help determine the extent of the rupture.

Treatment Options for a Ruptured Breast Implant

When a breast implant ruptures, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. The following are the different surgery treatment options available to women with a ruptured breast implant:

• Implant Removal and Replacement

This is the most common treatment option for a ruptured breast implant. The implant is removed and replaced with a new one. This can be done through the same incision as the original surgery or through a new incision. This treatment option is recommended for women who wish to continue to have breast augmentation.

• Implant Removal Only

This treatment option involves removing the ruptured implant without replacing it. This is typically recommended for women who no longer wish to have breast augmentation or who have experienced a significant amount of complications with their implants.

• Implant Repair

In some cases, a ruptured implant can be repaired rather than removed. This is typically only recommended for minor ruptures or leaks. The implant is removed, repaired, and then reinserted.

• Breast Reconstruction

In cases where a ruptured implant has caused significant damage to the breast tissue, breast reconstruction may be necessary. This can involve the use of tissue from other parts of the body, such as the stomach or back, to rebuild the breast.

Risks and Benefits of Surgery Treatment Options

Each of the surgery treatment options for a ruptured breast implant has its own set of risks and benefits. It is important for women to discuss these with Dr. Sophie Plastic Surgeon in Miami before making a decision.

Implant removal and replacement is the most common treatment option and is generally considered to be safe. However, as with any surgery, there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and scarring.

Implant removal only is also considered to be a safe option and can be done with minimal complications. However, it is important to note that this treatment option will result in a loss of breast augmentation.

Implant repair is considered to be a less invasive option, but it is not always possible, depending on the extent of the rupture.

Breast reconstruction is a more involved surgery and carries a higher risk of complications. However, it can help to restore the appearance and shape of the breast after a rupture.

It is important to note that women who have had a ruptured breast implant will also need to undergo regular follow-up imaging, such as mammograms or MRI scans, to monitor the integrity of their implants and detect any potential issues early on.

Ruptured Breast Implant FAQs

• What happens if a breast implant ruptures?
  A breast implant rupture occurs when the silicone or saline filling inside the implant leaks out. This can cause the implant to deflate or change shape. Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, or changes in the shape or appearance of the breast. It is important to schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon to have the ruptured implant removed and possibly replaced.
• How long can you go with a ruptured breast implant?
  It is not recommended to go for an extended period of time with a ruptured breast implant. It is important to schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon as soon as possible to have the ruptured implant removed and possibly replaced.
• Is breast implant rupture an emergency?
  Breast implant rupture is not typically considered a medical emergency, but it should be addressed as soon as possible by a plastic surgeon.
• Can a ruptured implant make you sick?
  A ruptured implant alone is not likely to make you sick, but if left untreated, it can cause complications such as infection or changes in the shape of the breast.
• Does insurance cover removal of ruptured breast implants?
  Insurance coverage for the removal of ruptured breast implants varies depending on the individual’s policy and the reason for the removal. It is best to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
• What happens if a ruptured breast implant is not removed?
  If a ruptured breast implant is not removed, it can cause complications such as infection, changes in the shape of the breast, or discomfort. It is important to schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon to have the ruptured implant removed and possibly replaced to avoid these complications.
• What does a ruptured implant feel like?
  Symptoms of a ruptured implant may include pain, tenderness, or changes in the shape or appearance of the breast. It is important to schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon to have the ruptured implant removed and possibly replaced.
• What are the signs of silicone poisoning?
  Silicone poisoning, also known as silicone toxicity, can cause a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and cognitive dysfunction. However, it is important to note that silicone toxicity is rare and typically only occurs with large amounts of silicone entering the bloodstream.
• How common is implant rupture?
  The incidence of implant rupture varies depending on the type of implant and the length of time they have been in place. According to the FDA, the risk of rupture for silicone gel-filled breast implants is 1.8% at 8 years and 9% at 10 years.
• Will a mammogram show a ruptured implant?
  A mammogram may not always be able to detect a ruptured implant, but it can be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools such as an MRI to determine if an implant has ruptured.
• Why did my implant rupture?
  There are several factors that can cause an implant to rupture such as trauma, changes in the implant shell over time, and manufacturing defects. It is important to speak with a plastic surgeon to determine the specific cause of the rupture.