Do You Have a Ruptured Implant?

Breast implants are designed to last a long time, but they can weaken and tear over time, leading to leakage – a condition known as rupture.

Implant rupture can occur with saline and silicone implants, in which case removal and replacement of the breast implant may be necessary if a new implant is desired. While the thought of new surgery can be daunting, Dr. Chad Wu, a board-certified plastic surgeon in downtown Toronto and Richmond Hill, performs breast revision surgery to ensure that your body and breasts continue to look and feel their best.

Suppose you are considering or have already undergone breast augmentation at Dr. Chad Wu’s private plastic surgery clinic. In that case, knowing the signs of implant rupture is essential to achieve long-lasting, successful results.

What Is Implant Rupture?

An implant ruptures when the outer shell tears, causing the implant contents to leak.

This phenomenon is often easy to detect in saline implants because the saline solution is absorbed by the body, resulting in a noticeable deflation after a few hours or days. Silicone implants, on the other hand, can leak gradually, making it more difficult to detect a rupture early.

What Causes Implant Rupture?

Implants can rupture for several reasons. One of the most common causes is capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and can eventually lead to rupture.

Everyday movement can also cause implant wear, particularly in areas that bend or rub, such as the outer edges of the implant. Textured implants are generally more likely to rupture due to increased friction against the breast tissue.

In some cases, direct trauma or injury to the breast can cause an implant to rupture. Even in these situations, silicone ruptures can go undetected if your plastic surgeon does not actively monitor them.

Is Implant Rupture Dangerous?

Ruptured saline implants present few health risks. The saline solution is simply sterile salt water, and the body absorbs it without damage. However, the empty breast pocket can begin to fill with scar tissue, which is why it is essential to replace a ruptured implant as soon as possible.

Older silicone implants were known to leak silicone gel beyond the breast pocket. Dr. Chad Wu, a board-certified plastic surgeon in downtown Toronto and Richmond Hill, explains that modern silicone and gummy bear implants are much more cohesive, minimizing the risk of leakage. Although ruptured silicone implants must be replaced, the health risks are generally low.

Signs of a Ruptured Saline Implant

Saline implant ruptures are typically easy to spot, even for those unfamiliar. Here are some common signs:

• Deflation: The breast will appear deflated as the saline solution exits the implant.
• Change in shape: Ruptured saline implants often lead to visible changes in breast shape, such as asymmetry or a more minor, lopsided appearance.
• Tenderness: Some patients may experience irritation or tenderness as the ruptured implant shell rubs against the breast tissue.

It could indicate an infection if you suspect a rupture and feel feverish or sick. Contact Dr. Chad Wu for immediate medical attention.

Signs of a Ruptured Silicone Implant

Silicone implant ruptures, often called “silent ruptures,” can be more challenging to detect because the silicone gel retains its shape. Here are some subtle signs to watch for:

• Pain or tenderness: Inflammation or soreness in the breast tissue could indicate that silicone has leaked into the surrounding area.
• Change in shape: Gradual breast size or symmetry changes may suggest a silicone implant rupture.
• Lumps: Small lumps may form under the skin as silicone clumps together. Although these lumps usually stay near the breast, they may require removal if they migrate.
• Soft or firm breasts: Changes in the firmness or softness of the breasts can indicate a rupture, as the implant loses volume or scar tissue forms around the implant.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

While it’s helpful to recognize the signs of an implant rupture, Dr. Chad Wu, a board-certified plastic surgeon in downtown Toronto and Richmond Hill, recommends regular MRI scans to detect silicone implant ruptures. The FDA suggests an MRI three years after surgery and every two years after that to check the integrity of the implant.

By detecting ruptures early through routine examinations, patients can avoid complications and ensure timely replacement of their implants.

Replace Your Ruptured Implants

If you suspect a rupture or are experiencing discomfort, don’t wait. Contact Dr. Chad Wu at his private plastic surgery clinic in downtown Toronto and Richmond Hill to discuss breast revision surgery. The ruptured implant will be removed during this procedure, and a new one can be inserted. Sometimes, a breast lift may also be performed to correct any sagging.