Where is the Valve Usually Placed when Getting Implants?

Question

My left implant has leaked and I have been told it is pretty much empty. When putting in the implants is there a standard place that the valve is located? When the implant is in would it be on the upper part of the implant, the lover part or front or back? I am asking because if it was on the top part of the implant then if the valve leaked it could still be holding saline in the bottom part. Or if it is on the bottom half then it really could be empty. Thank you.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The implant valve is located on the front of the implant in the center of the implant.  The rupture usually occurs in an area separate from the valve.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Gregory Sexton, MD · Answer

The valve is located on the front of the implant, often in the area behind the nipple. The location of the valve should not have any affect on your implant leaking. A pinpoint hole, anywhere on the implant will result in a totally empty implant. Where the hole is does not matter.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Breast implant valves are typically placed on top so that it is easy to confirm closure.  Having said that, I am not sure that it made that much difference in your deflation. Discuss this matter further with your surgeon

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the apparent complication you have experienced. Generally speaking, a saline breast implant valve  sits along the front surface of the breast  implant, often sitting just below the nipple/areola complex.  

	Based your description of your situation  you may be “overthinking” and may benefit from in-person consultation with your plastic surgeon;  sounds like the removal/replacement is in order.

	 Best wishes.

David Bogue, MD · Answer

Saline implants typically leak from a hole in the shell. The valve is located in the center of the implant on the front. However, once it ruptured, it should be replaced.

Where is the Valve Usually Placed when Getting Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast Implant Deflation and Breast Implant Valve?

Answer: Breast Implant Deflation and Breast Implant Valve?

Answer: Saline implant ruptures.

Answer: Saline implant ruptures.

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Where is the Valve Usually Placed when Getting Implants?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast Implant Deflation and Breast Implant Valve?

Answer: Breast Implant Deflation and Breast Implant Valve?

Answer: Saline implant ruptures.

Answer: Saline implant ruptures.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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