Breast Implant rupture but still nursing - how long do I need to wait after nursing to get an explant?

Hello,You should consider confirming that you have a rupture via either an ultrasound (least invasive) or an MRI (most specific to detect ruptures) and that may help guide your decision about timing. I typically wait a minimum of 6 weeks after breastfeeding to explant depending on severity of pain/symptoms otherwise 3 months is ideal to allow the breast tissue to settle. This should be considered as often a lift is required with the explant.Hope this helps!Dr Dev

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

Given the many risks of the breast implants, I would not recommend replacement—I would only recommend an explant with total capsulectomy/EN BLOC. Ideally, you want to have stopped nursing for your convenience before an explant. Explant surgery while also breastfeeding can be done safely; however, breastfeeding stopped prior to explant provides the most convenience for the patient. If you want, the best test is MRI without contrast to look for a silicone rupture.

Typically you will want to wait 6 months after you have finished nursing before having breast surgery. This will give time for the breasts to return to a baseline state. The added advantage is this may help you determine if you simply want removal or if you are interested in a revision.

Hello @MeUCantSee, thank you for your question. Is posible to have your surgery six months after you finish breast feeding the reason to wait is so that your breasts have time and space in order complete the changes in your breast after giving birth related to breastfeeding. 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. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)