Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Question

Had breast implants the 1st time in 1988. May of 2013 had implants removed due to rupture and new implants put in. October 15th had left breast redone because it was hard and too high on my chest. November 6th went back to the doctor because breast had a pin hole and fluid was squirting out in a stream. Then another hole started and now the 2 holes merged into 1 and the implant is BLACK. The doctor has stated that the implant needs to come out. I am scheduled for surgery November 11th 2013.

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

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complications you have experienced. What you are describing ( a “black” implant)  is quite consistent with breast implant exposure;  it is not a sign of infection etc. of the fluid within the breast implant.  it is black because it is not exposed to light transmission. Based on your description, your plastic surgeon has given you good advice and removal is indicated. Best wishes.

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

So sorry for your problems. This is very uncommon following implant exchange. Unfortunately with the open wound, the implant is now exposed and there will be bacteria in the pocket. Despite antibiotics, your body likely can't clear that. You will be better off removing the implant now and hopefully it can be replaced in the future. Sorry for your problems. Best of Luck!

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the problems you are having. The implant looks black because there is no light passing through it. Once it comes out, it will look normal. Good luck.

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

The implant is not black though it may appear so through the exposure you are looking at.  Either way I agree with your MD and the implant at this point needs to be removed as the wound probably will not close on its own

Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answers (5)

Answer: Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answer: Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answers (5)

Answer: Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answer: Large hole in left breast and you can see the implant and it is BLACK. Why is that?

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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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.