You want to replace a leaking implant ASAP

David Rankin, MD answers: How long can ruptured saline implants stay in my body?

My right saline implant ruptured or had a slight leak some time ago. I had my surgery 8 years ago, and my surgeon is in another state some 2000 miles away. How long can I live with this deflated saline implant in my body before it causes harm? Should I have it replaced or removed immediately?


David Rankin, MD
8 months ago

A leaking or deflated saline implant is not an emergency but it should be attended semi urgently. Once the implant fluid is absorbed by your body, not only will you have an apparent "deflation", but your body will begin to tighten the capsule around the implant making future surgical corrections more difficult. If attended to within a week or two, the implant can simply be removed and another inserted. This can be performed under local anesthesia. However, if you wait too long, you might need removal of the implant with removal or release of the constricted capsule surrounding your implant. I suggest you call your Plastic Surgeon and he/she will assist you in exchanging your implant. But, do it quick!

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