Can trauma cause breast implants to rupture or cause capsular contracture?

Question

I had under the muscle silicone breast implants 10mths ago. I was bathing my daughter and leaning on my chest on the side of the tub when I heard a pop sound. I had pain under my left breast for about a week, thought I bruised a rib. After 1mth I have slight swelling on my lower breast at the armpit side and I think that breast feels diffferent than the other. Not as soft? Should I be concerned or am I just being paranoid? Did I cause capsular contracture?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

When in doubt it would be prudent to return to your plastic surgeon for an exam. An ultrasound or MRI can diagnose if this is a rupture. In general the implants are tough and simply leaning on the tub side should not hurt your implant especially one that is less than 10 years old.

Badar Jan, MD · Answer

An excellent question. Implants can rupture from substantial force. In general it is more on the order of magnitude of a motor vehicle accident rather than leaning on the implants. It is possible you may have had some capsular tightening which ruptured causing discomfort. The safest thing is to be examined by your surgeon.Take care!

Mariam Awada, MD, FACS · Answer

I strongly recommend you get examined by your PS.  They may choose to perform evaluation of your implant and can guide you better based on your physical exam.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

You should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon in person to see what's going on.  That way, you can determine if any studies or treatment are needed.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  If you have any concerns about the integrity of your silicone implants, you can have your plastic surgeon order a noncontrast breast MRI.   However, implants very rarely rupture from blunt trauma.   It is more likely that you tore the capsule (your own tissue) that is the envelope which your breast implant sits within.    This can cause similar symptoms and recovery time to any cut or tear on the body.     Capsular contracture would present with increasing pain, swelling, tenderness, and hardness.   All the best.

Can trauma cause breast implants to rupture or cause capsular contracture?

Answers (9)

Answer: Implant trauma

Answer: Implant trauma

Answer: Implant Rupture vs. Capsular Tear?

Answer: Implant Rupture vs. Capsular Tear?

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Can trauma cause breast implants to rupture or cause capsular contracture?

Answers (9)

Answer: Implant trauma

Answer: Implant trauma

Answer: Implant Rupture vs. Capsular Tear?

Answer: Implant Rupture vs. Capsular Tear?

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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.