How Long Can You Safely Leave a Leaking Saline Breast Implant In?

There is no exact time limit but I like to remove them within one month or two before capsular contraction of the pocket becomes worse.

Hello. The implant was created to be left in the body therefore the implant itself will not cause any problems and neither will the leaking saline. That being said it would be best to replace your implants as soon as possible to avoid complications pertaining to the pocket. With time the implant pocket will scar and close making replacement surgery more difficult.

Jaime Perez, MD
Breast Augmentation Specialist
Plastic Surgery Center of Tampa

 There is no harm to your body  leaving the implant in place. The saltwater in the implant will be absorbed by your body with no ill effect. The implant itself will not cause any additional reaction. However the capsule around the implant will contract over time and the space will need to be revised  with placement of the new implant. If you have the implant replaced immediately, then  the new implant can be placed in the old pocket without much manipulation. This will result in a speedier recovery.

I have had patients come to me with a deflated saline implants that happened years ago and wish to address the problem now.  Although it is desirous to have the surgery to correct the deflated implant to restore symmetry and balance, the truth is that is not always medically necessary to have the surgery done immediately.  Keep in mind that if a saline implant breaks, all that leaks out is saltwater.  The saltwater is harmlessly absorbed into the body.  On occasions, the breast may rapidly change shape as the fluid leaks out.  In this instance, the folds of the implants may put unnecessary pressure on the skin and thereby causing skin breakdown.  It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to assess individual concerns.  

There is no set time to remove the leaking saline implant.  The saline (salt water) would be resorbed by your body with issues and as long as the implant does not become infected you do have the luxury of time.  Having said all of this it is advised to get this issue address as soon as possible to avoid any problems.

Dr.ES