Does it look likeI have a ruptured implant? (photos)

Question

Had my surgery in June 2014, silicone, 500cc left, 475 cc right, high profile, under muscle. A couple days ago I noticed what looked like some rippling when I took my bra off. Yesterday I noticed a lot more rippling and odd shape when I would move my breast. Today it has gotten worse and there seems to be a noticable deflation. I have no pain,tingling or numbness that I can tell. I have an appointment with my Dr on Tuesday. Does it look like rupture or can it be something else?

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Although you have a noticeable preop asymmetry-the post op condition is even more profound. In a situation such as this I would re-explore. For me  - if I were  your surgeon- I would  need to know exactly what is happening.

Joseph L. Grzeskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

There are a lot of individual unique considerations to your case, and there seem to be a lot of changes in the breast that you have recently noticed.  It will be impossible to tell you anything meaningful without examining your breasts, and in fact, if indicated after exam, you may need an MRI to answer any remaining questions about the implant integrity.  The one thing I can say is that even if your implant ruptured, it would not deflate, for if it is actually a silicone implant as you say, it will be a solid device and the material inside would not "leak" or "run" like a liquid, and therefore, the volume wouldn't suddenly "deflate."  It is good that you are seeing your surgeon on Tuesday, as he or she is really the one who can help the most here.  I don't see anything in your story or your pictures that would warrant a more urgent appointment, but if things do seem to deteriorate, don't hesitate to call your surgeon immediately and report the change in status.  Good Luck.

C. Cayce Rumsey III, MD · Answer

A ruptured or leaking silicone gel implant would be unusual, though not impossible, so soon after your surgery. It is not possible to diagnose a ruptured gel implant by physical exam alone and if your surgeon suspects the possibility then an MRI would be the best method to confirm. Another possible cause of the change in shape and palpable folds you have noticed is early capsular contracture. Though not as common with implants placed under the muscle this complication still occurs in at least five percent of patients....and is occasionally seen as early as 4-6 months. The best thing to do is make an appointment with your surgeon so he can perform a thorough exam.

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

It would be unusual to have a rupture of a silicone implant less than 6 months out from surgery.  I would agree that seeing your plastic surgeon very soon for an in-office exam would be the best way to have that evaluated. If your plastic surgeon feels there is a need, MRI can sometimes evaluate for ruptures. Follow your surgeon's advice and hang in there until you see him/her soon. Below is some general information on breast revision.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for your question but a rupture would be very unusual and the rippling you are seeing is just the surface of the implant through thin tissues though an MRI would help rule out a ruptureDr Corbin

Does it look likeI have a ruptured implant? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Rupture of silicone implants?

Answer: Rupture of silicone implants?

Answer: Rupture

Answer: Rupture

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.

Does it look likeI have a ruptured implant? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Rupture of silicone implants?

Answer: Rupture of silicone implants?

Answer: Rupture

Answer: Rupture

Browse related questions

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.