I just read this excerpt and since I’m deathly allergic to mold, I’m very concerned. Is this true?

Question

I thought Saline Implants were safest and if a leak, the sterile salt water was simple absorbed by the body. But see below... I just read this excerpt and since I’m deathly allergic to mold, I’m very concerned. Is this true? “Saline implants are prone to mold, yeast and bacteria growth. Deterioration or damage to the implant’s seal allows bacteria to grow inside the implant. This dangerous fluid can then slowly leak out of the implant and spread throughout the body, causing chronic infections and serious health problems. Saline implants may also cause the chest muscles to deteriorate, causing respiratory problems.“

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The danger of mold in saline implants is broadly exaggerated. I use mainly saline implants and have taken out some as well. I have never seen mold in a saline implant and have never heard from a plastic surgeon who found mold. So if it even happens it is quite rare

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nicolesbox,
there have been numerous studies on the safety and efficacy of silicone breast implants. The FDA has approved them to be safe and breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgical procedure performed in the United States every year. Implants are much different than they used to be with rigorous testing and cohesive gel. I can't tell you how happy my breast augmentation patients have been with their implants.
I would recommend a consult with a plastic surgeon to go over all of your concerns. Saline implants are also a perfectly good option if you are still concerned and are less expensive.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Nicole,
I have been in practice for over 27 years and only once (two months ago to be exact) have I ever seen an implant with cloudy fluid inside.  While I have read about this in surgical journals, I had until recently never seen it in over a thousand cases.  This particular implant was a foreign made item which had been recalled years ago.  
While BII and the potential for infection exists, they are extremely rare.  
I realize you must make an informed decision which only you may make.
Dr. Taranow

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Although mole can be seen in some saline implants removed, it is still uncommon. The above remarks are stretched and exaggerated and probably not from a physician.  I would recommend not believing everything you read on the Internet about implants, especially if claims are made medically from non physicians.  Mold is much more common in sinuses and lungs, and does not start in implants.

I just read this excerpt and since I’m deathly allergic to mold, I’m very concerned. Is this true?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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I just read this excerpt and since I’m deathly allergic to mold, I’m very concerned. Is this true?

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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