Is it dangerous to leave a ruptured saline implant for more than 6 months?

Question

I had saline implants on May 2018 and recently found out my left breast implant ruptured. I went to my surgeon and he confirmed it was. I can get it replaced and paid but i don't have time to get this done now. I would need to wait until fall of 2021. Can i wait until then? Is it dangerous to have it ruptured for that long? Help!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sulyramos10,
you should remove ruptured implants. Ruptured saline implants are filled with saline which will leak in the surrounding tissue and it should cause no major issues. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Every case is different. But the longer the implant is left, the more the space around it  closes in. But that’s not a big problem to deal with. You will be living with some asymmetry and if that’s ok the risk is low.

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

While it is safe to wait, your tissues might change a bit more than desired during that time.  There is a chance that the shape may tighten or scar down in a way that will make the implant exchange a bit more difficult.  There is no rush, but I recommend you stay coordinated with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to follow along.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Suly,
While it is not dangerous to leave deflated saline implants in place, the tissue surrounding the implant starts to collapse and stick (scar) together.  This requires your surgeon to open the pocket in several planes to allow the new implant to fit again and to adjust for symmetry.
Best wishes.
Dr. T

Is it dangerous to leave a ruptured saline implant for more than 6 months?

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Answer: Ruptured saline implant

Answer: Ruptured saline implant

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Is it dangerous to leave a ruptured saline implant for more than 6 months?

Answers (4)

Answer: Ruptured saline implant

Answer: Ruptured saline implant

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Recommended reading

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.