Is it dangerous to leave a ruptured saline breast implant in your body?

Thank you for sharing your question. Although not dangerous it can cause you irritation from the folds poking you from inside. Hope this helps.

In general, saline (a relatively innocuous substance) leaking is not going to cause issues as your body will likely absorb this. Risks include damage to interior breast tissue or even the chance of the implant breaking through the skin, if it develops a sharp edge. The implants can be removed quickly in a plastic surgeon's office.

Dear Laurafitzgerald,
in case of ruptured saline implants, your body will absorb the saline but you will have the shell still inside and that can cause issues in case it stays there for too long. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Leaving a ruptured saline breast implant in your body is generally not considered dangerous, but it should be addressed promptly. Here's why:
• Saline leakage: When a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution leaks out and is absorbed by the body. Since saline is sterile and similar to the body's natural fluids, it doesn’t pose any serious health risks. Your body will harmlessly absorb the fluid.
• Implant shell: The outer shell of the implant is made of silicone, and while the saline is absorbed, the shell will remain in your body. This shell could cause localized discomfort, inflammation, or changes in the breast’s appearance, such as deflation.
• Cosmetic concerns: A ruptured saline implant will cause the affected breast to lose volume, leading to noticeable asymmetry, which can be distressing.
Although it's not dangerous, you should consult your surgeon for removal and replacement to avoid potential complications like discomfort or infection from the implant shell.

The saline from your deflated implant is sterile and will be absorbed by the body. The remaining shell does not impose a health concern. You can have the shells removed as you are able.

No, it is not dangerous to leave the empty bag. Your body has absorbed the saline. However, the longer you wait to remove the bag, the more difficult it becomes, sometimes, to find the crumpled up bag. The saline bag can be removed in the office under local anesthesia. I would suggest meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon and discussing removal and the costs.