Breast implant augmentation is a common cosmetic surgery to enhance the shape and size of the breasts. Either saline or silicone implants can be used, or possibly one of the hybrid options that are now available. Regardless of the type of filler inside the implant, all of them have a silicone shell that can rupture or tear. At Precision Medical Specialists, Dr. Steven Rueda and our plastic surgery team can perform breast implant rupture repair surgery at our medical facility in Wellington, FL.

Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Most have an expected lifetime of 10-15 years before they will need to be removed or replaced. Implant tears and ruptures can occur from trauma to the chest, but they can also occur without any warning. Once the outer silicone shell is breached, the filler can leak out of the implant. Saline can be absorbed by the body as it drains out of the shell. Silicone filler may leak into the breast capsule, but it usually stays in the breast area.

Repairing a Ruptured Breast Implant

There are not always immediate symptoms when a breast implant ruptures. With saline implants, the shell will deflate, which will change the size and shape of the breast. In silicone implants, a silent rupture can occur without much change to the shape or size of the breast. Some patients may experience pain or stiffness in the breast if there is an implant tear or rupture.

To repair the ruptured implant, Dr. Rueda can remove the damaged implant. Patients can decide if they want both their implants removed permanently or they want them to be replaced. If it has been several years or longer since the initial implant surgery, it may be best to replace both implants at one time when performing corrective breast surgery.

Breast implants should be routinely checked for tears and ruptures. If you need breast implant rupture repair surgery, Dr. Rueda is one of the top breast plastic surgeons in the West Palm Beach area. To schedule your appointment, contact our team at Precision Medical Specialists.