Pain in arm and shoulder after implant leaking and rupture. GP thought it was saline accumulation. Is this normal?

Question

My right implant has been leaking for at least a year (per mammogram). My arm/shoulder starting hurting in October, then Dec. 31st I felt my implant rupture. Now my arm and shoulder are worse and swollen and I’ve lost strength and range of motion in my right arm. I’m scheduled for implant exchange in 2 weeks but I’m concerned about my current pain. My GP thought it was saline accumulating there, but I can’t find anything on the web. Can saline take this long to absorb and cause this much pain?

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Saline does not accumulate but is absorbed by the body.  If the implant is saline and leaking, it deflates quickly over a few hours or at most a day.  If you are having problems with implants, I recommend explantation using The Bellesoma Method.  The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained, if not injured during your previous surgery.  At the same time or later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.  Implants are not lifetime devices and half are removed by 9.5 years.  Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi amy62j, 
  
I understand your concern. However, it is difficult to provide you with an accurate answer to your question with online consult. It is best that you visit a board certified plastic surgeon, so you can be properly assessed. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Pain in arm and shoulder after implant leaking and rupture. GP thought it was saline accumulation. Is this normal?

Answers (3)

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Pain in arm and shoulder after implant leaking and rupture. GP thought it was saline accumulation. Is this normal?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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