I had an implant rupture. What are signs of infection and when should I seek medical attention?

Leaking/ruptured  implants generally do not cause an infection. If you feel this is the case or if your implants are more than 10 years old then you should see a plastic surgeon for a consultation. Our own bodies give out with time as does our cars and just about everything else in life and so is the case for implants. For silicone implants prior to 2006, ruptures occur at rates of approximately 1-2% per year for the first ten years then markedly increases after that time period. A rupture or deflation of the implant may be experienced at any point after the initial augmentation; this complication may be increased by an under-filling or overfilling of saline solution into the implant, excessive compression, trauma, and other causes. (If the implant shell if not filled with the correct amount of saline, there may be a crease or fold in the shell which often leads to a rupture). You will be able to self-diagnose the need for an implant exchange (if using a saline implant) because if the current implant ruptures, the breast will shrink to approximately its preoperative size. A silicone implant that has a rupture is usually noted on a routine mammogram or MRI scan. In either case although the situation needs to be corrected on a timely basis, it is not dangerous to your health from our current knowledge base. Silicone implants after 2006 are more cohesive and less likely to leak or have silicone migration. Signs of infection are redness, swelling, pain, fever. You should seek medical attention right away. 

If you know that your implant is ruptured, most surgeons would suggest that you have the implant removed. Although leaving a ruptured implant in the body does not necessarily cause any medical or health issues, removal of the implant is still recommended.  If you develop pain or signs of infection, you absolutely should seek medical attention. 

If you think your implant is ruptured, you should seek the attention of a local plastic surgeon to make sure everythign is ok.

Just because you have a ruptured implant it doesn't mean that you will get an infection. However you should see your surgeon to address the rupture as soon as you can. The earlier it is addressed the better. Signs of infection include tenderness, redness and warmth in the affected area. You may also have a fever. 

Hi. Your question is not specific. Do you have saline or silicone? If they are saline the deflation is noted immediately or within hours. If they are silicone it's a bit harder to detect and an MRI is indicated. Look for the typical signs of infection, redness, warm to touch and perhaps even a fever. Ruptured implants do not require emergency surgery or treatment. make sure you consult with a surgeon certified by the Amercian Board of Plastic Surgery. Good luck

Just because you have an implant rupture does not mean you are prone to an infection.  I am not sure what you are specifically asking.

Implant rupture with a silicone gel implant can go unnoticed and the first sign might be a tender breast and capsular contracture. A saline implant on the other hand will let you know as it will lose volume and the breast will become visible smaller. Infection is a not an issue with rupture. The earlier the implant is replaced, the easier it is, and often as is the case with implants we use, there is a lifetime replacement warranty. Not a rush, but get in to see your surgeon sooner than later.

If you have a ruptured implant then you will need some sort of surgery to remove the implants and possibly replace them.  This is not an emergency, but it should not be ignored.  Saline implant rupture would manifest as a flat breast and the other side can be ruptured by your surgeon to be balanced while you plan your next step.  Ruptured silicone gel implants will not result in a flat breast but likely a change in shape or hardening of your breasts.  In both cases it is advisable to have the ruptured implants removed.  Good Luck, Gaurav Bharti

It is always important for you to be examined by your plastic surgeon after rupture of a breast implant.  Rupture is typically only diagnosed with a MRI.  I am uncertain why your concerned about infection but you need to be examined by your plastic surgeon.