Burning, swelling and tenderness. Do I have a ruptured implant? (photo)

Dear 2447anon,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question. It is best to get your results and determine what exactly is the problem. WHO recommends implants to be changed every 10 years for health reasons. Therefore, even if the ultrasound or scan shows no problem, I would highly recommend you getting them exchanged. In your case, I also recommend you an uplift when you exchange for a smaller size implants. This will give you the best outcome. Best of luck to you.

Swelling is usually not associated with ruptured implants. You definitely need to be evaluated as soon as possible to see what is going on. If you are having complications from the implants then you should consider explantation and lift 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 and nipple sensation (in 95%) is maintained if not injured during your previous surgery. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hello dear. These symptoms may be due to implant rupture, fluid accumulation (late-onset seroma), an inflammatory reaction due to implant wear, or, in very rare cases, lymphoma associated with textured implants. All of these problems are possible in implants that are more than 10 years old. The good news is that implants can be replaced if a problem is confirmed. It is also possible to choose a smaller size, and depending on your skin condition, you may not need a lift, although this is evaluated during surgery. It is important to have an imaging study performed promptly to confirm the cause and determine the appropriate treatment. You can contact us at 829-554-6062 for a more detailed evaluation of your case.

The symptoms you describe could indicate several things including capsular contracture. I encourage you to speak to your surgeon who can perform an ultrasound to check they implants. You can discuss your options including implant exchange and if a lift is necessary based on how much smaller you want to go and your desired look.

I suggest you follow up either with your original plastic surgeon or any other plastic surgeon in your community.
You may be developing a capsular contraction.
If you have silicone implants, then a rupture can cause capsule contraction.
If you have saline implants and develop a rupture The breast will shrink in size as your body absorbs the water.
A mammogram may be a good idea.
I suggest you talk to your primary care doctor about that.
Changing implant size is definitely possible. The impact depends on a number of variables.
For a quality assessment I suggest you schedule in person consultations.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD.