Breast Implant Augmentation Rupture

Symptoms and Treatment for Breast Implant Augmentation Rupture

Breast implant Augmentation rupture is a relatively uncommon complication of breast augmentation – augmentation mammoplasty surgery, but it can occur in both silicone and saline implants. The incidence of rupture varies depending on the type of implant and the length of time since implantation.

Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jake Lim has many years of experience performing different types of breast procedures, including breast implants surgery.

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What is Breast Implant Rupture?

Breast implant rupture is a condition that occurs when the outer shell of a breast implant develops a tear or a hole, allowing the contents of the implant to leak out into the surrounding breast tissue. This can happen to both saline and silicone implants, although the consequences and detection methods may differ.

There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater, while silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Both types of implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, but they have different rupture risks and characteristics.

Saline implants tend to have a lower risk of rupture compared to silicone implants. When a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution is absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated within a few hours to a few days. This makes the detection of saline implant rupture relatively straightforward.

On the other hand, silicone implants have a higher risk of rupture, particularly as they age. When a silicone implant ruptures, the cohesive gel may remain within the implant shell or leak into the surrounding breast tissue. This can make the detection of silicone implant rupture more challenging, as the breast may not show any obvious signs of deflation.

Different factors can contribute to breast implant rupture, including:

Age of the implant: The risk of rupture increases as the implant ages. On average, breast implants are expected to last 10 to 20 years before requiring replacement.
Trauma: severe blow to the chest, such as during a car accident or a hard fall, can cause implant rupture.
Compression during mammograms: Although rare, the compression of the breast during a mammogram can sometimes lead to implant rupture.
Surgical instruments: In rare cases, damage from surgical instruments during the initial implantation or subsequent procedures can cause rupture.
Manufacturing defects: While uncommon, implant rupture can be caused by manufacturing defects in the implant shell or valve.

Silent Rupture vs. Symptomatic Rupture

Breast implant ruptures can be classified into two categories: silent ruptures and symptomatic ruptures.

A silent rupture, also known as an intracapsular rupture, occurs when the implant shell develops a leak, but the silicone gel remains contained within the fibrous capsule that naturally forms around the implant. In this case, there may be no obvious symptoms or changes in breast appearance. Silent ruptures are most common in silicone implants and can go unnoticed for years without regular screening.

On the other hand, a symptomatic rupture, also called an extracapsular rupture, happens when the silicone gel leaks out of the fibrous capsule and into the surrounding breast tissue. This type of rupture is more likely to cause noticeable symptoms and changes in breast appearance.

Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon and imaging tests are important for detecting silent ruptures.

Symptoms of Breast Implant Rupture

The symptoms of breast implant rupture can vary depending on the type of implant and the extent of the rupture. Some common symptoms include:

Changes in breast size or shape: A ruptured implant may cause the affected breast to appear smaller, misshapen, or uneven compared to the other breast.
Changes in breast firmness: A ruptured silicone implant may cause the breast to feel firmer or harder than usual, while a ruptured saline implant may cause the breast to feel softer or more fluid.
Pain or tenderness: Rupture can sometimes cause pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the affected breast, particularly in the case of extracapsular silicone ruptures.
Swelling or inflammation: Extracapsular silicone ruptures can cause swelling, inflammation, or redness in the affected breast due to the silicone gel leaking into the surrounding tissue.
Numbness or tingling: In some cases, implant rupture can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the breast or the surrounding skin.
Lumps or nodules: Ruptured silicone implants may cause the formation of lumps or nodules in the breast tissue, which can be felt during a physical examination.

It’s important to note that some of these symptoms can also be caused by other breast-related conditions, such as capsular contracture or infection. If you experience any of these symptoms or notice any changes in your breast appearance, consult your plastic surgeon promptly for an evaluation.

Risks and Complications Associated with Breast Implant Rupture:

Breast implant rupture itself is a complication, but it can also lead to several additional risks and complications that may affect your health and the appearance of your breasts. These include:

Silicone granulomas: In the event of a silicone implant rupture, the leaking silicone gel can cause a foreign body reaction in the surrounding breast tissue. This reaction results in the formation of silicone granulomas, which are small, firm lumps or nodules that develop around the leaked silicone. Granulomas can be painful and may require surgical removal along with the ruptured implant.
Breast pain or changes in sensation: Implant rupture can cause pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the affected breast. This pain may be more pronounced in the case of extracapsular silicone ruptures, where the silicone gel leaks into the surrounding tissue. Additionally, some women may experience changes in breast sensation, such as numbness or tingling, following an implant rupture. These changes in sensation may be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of the rupture and any subsequent surgical interventions.
Asymmetry: A ruptured implant can cause the affected breast to appear smaller, misshapen, or uneven compared to the other breast. This asymmetry can be particularly noticeable in the case of saline implant ruptures, as the saline solution is absorbed by the body, leading to a deflated appearance. Silicone implant ruptures may also cause asymmetry, particularly if the leaked silicone gel causes the formation of granulomas or other tissue changes.
Infection: Although rare, implant rupture can increase the risk of infection in the affected breast. This risk is higher in cases where the rupture goes undetected or untreated for an extended period. Symptoms of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, fever, and drainage from the incision site. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and surgical removal of the ruptured implant may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and further complications.

Breast Augmentation Patient 58 - 360cc Round Implants Under Muscle — Breast Augmentation Patient 58 – 360cc Round Implants Under Muscle

Diagnosis and Treatment for Breast Implant Rupture

If you suspect that you may have a breast implant rupture, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention from your plastic surgeon. The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging tests to confirm the presence and extent of the rupture.

During the physical examination, your plastic surgeon will carefully assess your breasts for any signs of rupture, such as changes in size, shape, or firmness. Dr Lim may also check for any tenderness, pain, or lumps in the breast tissue. However, it is important to note that physical examination alone may not be sufficient to diagnose a rupture, particularly in the case of silent ruptures.

Imaging tests play a role in the accurate diagnosis of breast implant rupture. The most commonly used imaging options include:

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is considered the gold standard for detecting breast implant rupture, with a sensitivity of around 90%. It uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue and implants, allowing the identification of even small tears or leaks in the implant shell.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is another imaging technique that can be used to evaluate breast implants. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the breast tissue and implants. While ultrasound is less sensitive than MRI for detecting ruptures, it is more widely available, less expensive, and does not involve radiation exposure.
Mammography: Although not specifically designed for evaluating breast implants, mammography can sometimes detect signs of implant rupture, such as changes in implant shape or the presence of silicone outside the implant. However, mammography is less sensitive than MRI or ultrasound for detecting ruptures and may not be suitable for all patients with implants.

If a breast implant rupture is confirmed through imaging tests, treatment is necessary to remove the ruptured implant and address any complications. The main treatment options include:

Implant removal: In some cases, particularly when the ruptured implant is causing significant symptoms or complications, the implant may need to be removed without replacement. This procedure is known as explantation and may be followed by breast lift or reshaping techniques to restore a natural breast appearance.
Implant replacement: Many patients opt to have the ruptured implant removed and replaced with a new implant in a single surgical procedure. This approach allows for the maintenance of the desired breast size and shape while addressing the complications of the rupture.

The choice between implant removal with or without replacement depends on factors such as the extent of the rupture, the presence of any additional complications (e.g., silicone granulomas), your individual preferences, and the overall health of the breast tissue. Dr Lim will discuss the most appropriate treatment option for your specific case, taking into account your medical history, aesthetic goals, and long-term breast health.

FAQs about Breast Implant Rupture

Can I breastfeed after experiencing a breast implant rupture?

In most cases, breastfeeding is possible after treating a breast implant rupture. However, if the rupture led to complications such as infection or silicone granulomas, it may affect your ability to breastfeed. Consult your plastic surgeon and a lactation specialist to discuss your specific situation and potential limitations.

Will my insurance cover the costs associated with breast implant rupture?

Insurance coverage for breast implant rupture-related expenses varies depending on your specific policy and the circumstances of your case. If the implants were placed for reconstructive purposes following mastectomy or other medical conditions, insurance may cover the costs. However, if the implants were for cosmetic reasons, you may be responsible for the expenses. Review your insurance policy and discuss your options with your plastic surgeon and insurance provider.

Is it possible to have a breast implant rupture without any noticeable symptoms?

Yes, silent ruptures, particularly in silicone implants, can occur without causing any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular check-ups and imaging tests, such as MRI scans, are important for detecting ruptures early and preventing potential complications.

How long is the recovery process after surgery for a ruptured breast implant?

The recovery process after surgery for a ruptured breast implant varies depending on the extent of the rupture, the specific treatment approach (implant removal with or without replacement), and individual factors. Generally, you can expect to take about 2-3 weeks off work and resume light activities gradually. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a detailed recovery timeline and instructions based on your specific case.

Are there any alternative breast enhancement options that don’t involve implants?

Yes, fat grafting (also known as fat transfer) is an alternative to breast implants. This procedure involves harvesting fat from other parts of your body (such as the abdomen or thighs) through liposuction, processing it, and injecting it into the breasts to increase their size and shape. Fat grafting may not achieve the same level of volume increase as implants, but it offers a more natural approach with a lower risk of complications like rupture.