Leaking/deflated implant - should I find I doctor who can remove them sooner than December?

Question

I've had saline implants for 28 years. I had a consultation in August and scheduled an explant, but the Dr. I spoke with can not get me in till December 5th. Since my consultation one of my implants has deflated. I'm concerned that waiting till December to remove them is too long now. Should I find another Dr. who can get me in sooner?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

There is no true emergency to remove deflated implants. However, if you feel so, it is best to consider consultation with another board certified plastic surgeon in your area, expert in breast surgery. Good luck.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @TMF66, thank you for your question. This depends if you are having discomfort, pain or other symptoms. Is important that when you get them remove the doctor removes the whole capsules. I mean complete capsulectomy. Also it would be necessary to carry out a preventive biopsy on each capsule. This way the mammary tissue can recuperate better and avoid a future inflammatory response from the bbody.If you are considering a breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear TMF66,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, rupture of the saline implant can wait until removal. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Having a deflated saline implant poses no real risk to you.  The saline solution will simply be absorbed by your body.  You can comfortably wait until December to have them removed, or if you are concerned with how they appear you can find someone else who can do it sooner.  I hope this helps.

Leaking/deflated implant - should I find I doctor who can remove them sooner than December?

Answers (9)

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Deflated implant

Answer: Deflated implant

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Leaking/deflated implant - should I find I doctor who can remove them sooner than December?

Answers (9)

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Deflated implant

Answer: Deflated implant

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.