Kayaking after breast revision? Mentor, silicone cohesive gel, placed in 2007

Question

I have 2 consultations scheduled for a breast revision. I believe that my right silicone implant has ruptured due to the sudden changes in its shape, size, and deep visible rippling. I kayak and backpack frequently throughout the year. First question, is it safe to kayak with a potentially ruptured implant? Second, how long after surgery would be typical for someone to go back to those types of activities? I appreciate everyone's time in replying to this.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Tens of millions of women who had their implants placed in the 60's, 70's, 80's, and even early 90's never had their implants checked and spent many years of their lives with ruptured implants. When evaluated in subsequent studies, they were found to be no different than women without implants in regards to general health or specific systemic diseases. Despite the hullabaloo about 'breast implant illness' in recent years, the data accumulated over the last 50 years do not support some mysterious illness. In fact, BII can't even qualify as an disease process because there is no specific set of symptoms. And now, activists label any symptom or other known disease a result caused by her implants. The reality is that implants, and especially ruptured implants, only cause local issues associated mostly with scar tissue around the device. If you think you have a ruptured implant, then see a surgeon who has high resolution ultrasound and can surveil your devices. Even if one is ruptured, it is not a medical emergency. You should probably take at least 4-6 weeks off from kayaking after surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Areynolds34,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Although it is probably safe to Kayak and backpack with a ruptured implant, I personally would advise against this. A concern is that the increased activity could potentially convert an intracapsular rupture to an extracapsular failure. I would suggest that you confirm the rupture by having an MRI or high-resolution ultrasound of the implants before resuming these high intensity activities. Post surgery, I generally ask patients to avoid strenuous activity for a month

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

An implant rupture isn't a medical emergency, but it should be addressed as soon as it's feasible.  You will need to recover from surgery and can return to regular activities after six weeks, however it is best to gradually increase intensity.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You will need implant exchange.  I usually do these in the submuscular position and it would be about 1 month before you can return to kayaking.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Kayaking after breast revision? Mentor, silicone cohesive gel, placed in 2007

Answers (7)

Answer: Implant rupture

Answer: Implant rupture

Answer: Implant exchange

Answer: Implant exchange

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Kayaking after breast revision? Mentor, silicone cohesive gel, placed in 2007

Answers (7)

Answer: Implant rupture

Answer: Implant rupture

Answer: Implant exchange

Answer: Implant exchange

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.