Can a Leaking Silicone Implant Cause Chest / Rib Pain?

Question

my left implant showed leakage into the breast cavity around a year ago,i have chest/rib pain now that doc thinks is muscle strain..could a leak in the silicone give this type of pain in this area?it hurts all round the rib cage but more in the center,i can't even lift a half full wash basket or stretch to hang washing without it hurting,somtimes even walking for half hour will trigger it,and it hurts mostly when i lay down causing me lack of sleep. please advise.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Depending on the type of implant you have the consequences of a rupture will be different but I would say yes you could get any type of pain after a rupture

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

You need to have the ruptured implants removed asap.  Leaving the silicone to leak longer will be more difficult for the surgeon to complete the surgery.

David Bogue, MD · Answer

A ruptured gel implant is unlikely to cause rib pain. Regardless, a ruptured implant should be replaced. I recommend finding a plastic surgeon in your area for evaluation.

Helen S. Colen, MD · Answer

Just a leaky implant will not cause pain and many are silent and only discovered on mammography. However, if it is accompanied by capsular contracture due to loss of the integrity of the implant, or chondritis due to inflammatory changes, or siliconomas, then you should have those implants removed and treat the inflammation. In any case discuss it with your doctor who will explain to you whether your leak is intracapsular or extracapsular and other details. That may explain to you better why you have the pain. HC

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

It is possible but best to exchange the "leaking" implant ASAP! What are you waiting for? From MIAMI Dr. Darryl J. Blinski

Can a Leaking Silicone Implant Cause Chest / Rib Pain?

Answers (10)