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

Question

Aug2022-new superficial wound near scar didn't heal, developed into approx 5mm open wound w/ dehiscence in a span of a month. Proper wound care done. VISITED ER. No signs of infection,no fever, redness,or pus. clear drainage. Bedside ultrasound no drainable collections Proper wound care cont. HISTORY Surgery:Feb2022. Keloid former. 3days breast implant post-op,surgeon injected steroids around surgical area. 4wks postop returned due to delayed healing. Surgical line reopened and restitched.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Wess Cohen, MD · Answer

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.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

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.

Arthur Shektman, MD · Answer

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.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

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

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

Answers (8)

Answer: Unfortunate situation

Answer: Unfortunate situation

Answer: Wound dehiscence

Answer: Wound dehiscence

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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

Answers (8)

Answer: Unfortunate situation

Answer: Unfortunate situation

Answer: Wound dehiscence

Answer: Wound dehiscence

Browse related questions

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.