What Happens If A Breast Implant Ruptures?

You may have recently made the decision to get breast implants. Many women ask us ‘can breast implants rupture?’  Here we give you all the essential information you need to know about what to do if a breast implant ruptures.

RELATED: Common questions about breast implants

Breast implants are medical devices that are used to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. There are two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel and are considered to have a more natural feel and look. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution and are generally considered to be safer if they rupture.

Breast implants are not permanent devices and will eventually need to be removed or replaced. The risk of rupture varies depending on the type of implant, the age of the implant, and other factors such as the patient’s medical history, the surgical technique used, and the patient’s lifestyle.

RELATED: What are common breast implant problems?

If a breast implant ruptures, the silicone or saline solution can leak into the surrounding tissue. This can cause pain, swelling, and changes in the shape or appearance of the breast. Some ruptures may not cause any symptoms, but they can still be detected with regular imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound.

In the event of a rupture, the implant will typically need to be surgically removed or replaced. The specific treatment will depend on the type of implant, the extent of the rupture, and the patient’s individual circumstances.

It’s important for women with breast implants to understand the risks associated with the devices and to schedule regular follow-up appointments with their plastic surgeon to monitor the implants and ensure they remain in good condition. If a patient experiences any symptoms or changes in the appearance of their breasts, they should seek medical attention promptly.

RELATED: 3 breast implant safety considerations to know about

How do I know if a breast implant is ruptured?

There are two main types of breast implants are:

• Saline implants (rarely used in the UK)
• Silicone implants

The symptoms, which may suggest an implant rupture, are related to the type of implant. Read on to learn more about the symptoms associated with both saline and silicone implant rupture.

Saline breast implant rupture

A ruptured saline breast implant is usually easy to detect because the saline solution is absorbed by the body and the breast will deflate, leading to a noticeable change in the shape and size of the affected breast. Common signs of a ruptured saline implant include:

1. Sudden change in the shape or size of the breast: If one breast suddenly becomes smaller or deflated, this may indicate that the implant has ruptured.
2. Pain or discomfort: Some women may experience pain or discomfort in the affected breast if the implant ruptures.
3. Visible wrinkling or rippling of the skin: If the saline solution leaks out of the implant, it can cause the skin to wrinkle or ripple, which may be visible or palpable.
4. Hardening of the breast tissue: A ruptured implant can cause the breast tissue to harden or feel firm, which may indicate a problem with the implant.

In addition to these physical symptoms, a ruptured saline implant can also be detected through imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI. These tests can help confirm the diagnosis and provide more information about the extent of the rupture.

If a patient suspects that their saline implant has ruptured, they should seek medical attention promptly to determine the best course of treatment. In most cases, a ruptured saline implant will need to be surgically removed or replaced. The specific treatment will depend on the patient’s individual circumstances, the extent of the rupture, and other factors such as the patient’s medical history and the surgical technique used.

Silicone breast implant rupture

Diagnosing a ruptured silicone breast implant can be more challenging than detecting a ruptured saline implant because the silicone gel is thick and does not leak out of the implant like saline solution does. Common signs of a ruptured silicone implant include:

1. Changes in the shape or size of the breast: If one breast changes shape or size, this may indicate a ruptured silicone implant. However, changes in the shape or size of the breast may also be due to other factors such as weight changes, ageing, or hormonal changes.
2. Pain or discomfort: Some women may experience pain or discomfort in the affected breast if the implant ruptures, but this is not always the case.
3. Hardening of the breast tissue: A ruptured silicone implant can cause the breast tissue to harden or feel firm, which may indicate a problem with the implant.
4. Changes in the appearance of the breast: A ruptured silicone implant may cause the breast to look distorted or asymmetrical, or the skin may appear wrinkled or rippled.

Diagnostic tests such as an MRI or ultrasound can help confirm the diagnosis of a ruptured silicone implant, but these tests may not always detect small or slow leaks. If a patient suspects that their silicone implant has ruptured, they should seek medical attention promptly to determine the best course of treatment.

In the event of a ruptured silicone implant, the implant will typically need to be surgically removed or replaced. The specific treatment will depend on the extent of the rupture, the patient’s individual circumstances, and other factors such as the patient’s medical history and the surgical technique used. Women with silicone implants should be aware of the potential risks associated with the devices and schedule regular follow-up appointments with their plastic surgeon to monitor the implants and ensure they remain in good condition.

Is it dangerous to have a ruptured breast implant?

Whether a ruptured breast implant is dangerous depends on several factors, including the type of implant, the extent of the rupture, and the patient’s individual health and medical history.

In the case of a ruptured saline implant, the saline solution is absorbed by the body and is generally considered to be safe. However, a ruptured saline implant can cause pain, swelling, and changes in the shape or appearance of the breast, and it will typically need to be surgically removed or replaced.

In the case of a ruptured silicone implant, the thick silicone gel can migrate into the surrounding tissue and cause a condition called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which is a rare type of lymphatic cancer. While BIA-ALCL is treatable, early detection and prompt treatment is crucial for a favourable outcome. A ruptured silicone implant can also cause pain, swelling, and changes in the shape or appearance of the breast, and it will typically need to be surgically removed or replaced.

It’s important for women with breast implants to understand the potential risks associated with the devices and to schedule regular follow-up appointments with a plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery to monitor the implants and ensure they remain in good condition. If a patient experiences any symptoms or changes in the appearance of their breasts, they should seek medical attention promptly. An early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help minimise the potential risks and ensure a favourable outcome.

What to do if I think my breast implant has ruptured?

Breast Implant Revision Surgery at Centre for Surgery

Centre for Surgery is considered one of the most experienced plastic surgery clinics in London for breast, implant, removal or replacement. There are several factors to consider when deciding who to choose for your implant removal and/or replacement surgery.

Choosing the right surgeon for a breast implant removal or replacement procedure is an important decision that can impact the outcome and overall satisfaction with the results. Here are some steps you can take to find the best surgeon for your individual needs:

1. Do your research: Research the various plastic surgery procedures available for breast implant removal or replacement and familiarise yourself with the different techniques and options. You can start by visiting the websites of professional organizations such as the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).
2. Look for a qualified and experienced surgeon: When choosing a plastic surgeon, it’s important to look for someone who is qualified and has experience in performing the specific procedure you’re interested in. Look for a surgeon who is a member of a professional organization such as BAPRAS or BAAPS, which ensures that the surgeon has received appropriate training and is up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques.
3. Review the surgeon’s credentials: Check the surgeon’s credentials and training history, including where they received their medical degree, their residency and training, and any certifications they may have. You can also look for information about their experience performing breast implant removal or replacement procedures.
4. Ask for recommendations: Talk to friends, family members, or your general practitioner to see if they have any recommendations for a qualified plastic surgeon. You can also ask your current plastic surgeon for a referral to a specialist in breast implant removal or replacement.
5. Schedule a consultation: Once you have narrowed down your list of potential surgeons, schedule a consultation to meet with them and ask any questions you may have about the procedure, their experience and qualifications, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.
6. Check the surgeon’s before and after photos: Many plastic surgeons provide before and after photos of their patients on their websites or in their offices. Reviewing these photos can give you a better idea of the surgeon’s level of skill and the results they have achieved for other patients.
7. Trust your instincts: Choose a plastic surgeon who you feel comfortable with, who listens to your concerns and answers your questions, and who you feel confident will provide you with the best possible care.

It’s important to take the time to carefully consider your options and find a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who you feel comfortable with and who you trust to deliver the best results for your individual needs. Remember, a breast implant removal or replacement procedure is a significant decision that can impact your health and overall well-being, so it’s essential to choose the right surgeon for your individual needs. You can be assured of receiving the highest standards of medical care at Centre for Surgery. Call us today to schedule a consultation at our state-of-the-art Baker Street clinic in Marylebone.