Can you salvage an "exposed" silicone? Is implant removal the only solution? (Photo)

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thank you for your question. Exposed implants can be salvaged. However, as you stated, there needs to be no signs of further infection. The implant in the breast pocket need to be handled sterily and thoroughly cleaned. Any wound edges that are not healthy need to be debrided. Unfortunately due to the exposure, you are at higher risk of developing an infection, and capsular contracture over the life time of your implant. This does not mean it is going to happen, but you should understand the risks. Good luck.

Dear Lightningbolt123,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, if the implant is exposed then it should be removed. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you 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

If one early closure fails, then bacteria have usually entered around the implant and the implant then needs to be removed, Once healed, a new implant can then be inserted.

I'm sorry to hear of your issues with healing from augmentation. Typically once an implant has become exposed the general recommendation is to remove the implant. Your surgeon will advise what is best in your situation as she/he is most familiar with the details of your recovery including the implant exposure.

Very interesting case and nicely posted photos. In general terms, exposed implants (whether silicone or saline) by general standard of care should be removed. The main reasoning is once exposed the foreign body (implant) has a very high % of becoming infected. In my 40+ years in private plastic surgery practice I have salvaged only 2 exposed implant cases vs triple those needing removal. In your case you attempted salvaging but after a few months re exposure has occurred. Now removal, healing fir 3-6 months , reinsertion using alternative incision route can be offered. Good luck.

Unfortunately, exposed implants are extremely difficult to salvage. It seems that one attempt already was not successful. While this is not an emergency, the implant will probably need to come out.

Hola por la foto del dia 22 de agosto el implante se ve expuesto, la alternativa de tratamiento es entrar a una revisión del implante y si no está contaminada la cavidad previo cultivo de la zona, sería cambiar de plano el implante, debajo del músculo o retirarlo y dejarlo descansar por unos meses y reintentar colocarlo, pero encontrar la causa que condiciono el problema. Saludos