If my Memory Gel Breast Implant Suddenly Got Squishy After Rough Handling, is It Broken?

Question

I got memortgel implants (450ml) in April and after rough handling, one is much squishier than the other and makes noises. What is the likelihood that it's broken? Is there any way to find out without an MRI- I just lost my job!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

a sudden change in the feel of any implant can indicate a few things:

	
		the capsule can be torn
	
		the implant can be broken
	
		Mri scan is best
	
		mammogram and U/S are 85% accurate
	
		U/S alone is less expensive and may give an answer

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.

	Sudden change in the texture and feel of implant usually signals rupture of an implant.

	In case of saline implant rupture is signaled by sudden decrease in size of implant with asymmetry compare to the opposite side.

	In case of silicone implant, the rupture can be most commonly noted as a decrease in the size or feel of implant.

	It would be best if you could consult with your plastic surgeon as soon as possible so you can determine the most likely diagnosis.

	An ultrasound or MRI can be very helpful in making a diagnosis and putting your mind at ease.

	Best Wishes,

	Dr. Sajjadian

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	The first place to start would be to see your plastic surgeon for direct examination. A good history and physical make go a long way to alleviate some concerns/anxiety.

	After your surgeon examines you he/she may feel that additional workup is necessary. This may consist of ultrasound or MRI studies to evaluate the presence of any fluid present ( usually responsible for &ldquo;making noises&rdquo;) or the presence of a ruptured silicone gel implant.

	Generally speaking, it would be very unusual that &ldquo;rough handling&rdquo; could generate enough force to rupture the current silicone gel implants. Nevertheless, given your concerns and change in feel of the breast follow-up with your plastic surgeon is indicated.

	I hope this helps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If the implant does not feel the same as it did before, it is probably a good idea to go for an exam with your doctor. You may need an MRI to definitively tell you id the implant is ruptured.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

A sudden change in the texture of a breast implant often signals a rupture, and the squishy feel of the silicone gel outside of the implant envelope is typical. Have you surgeon take a look, and an MRI will be able to confirm.

	Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd.com

If my Memory Gel Breast Implant Suddenly Got Squishy After Rough Handling, is It Broken?

Answers (8)

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: The squishy implant usually means rupture

Answer: The squishy implant usually means rupture

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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

If my Memory Gel Breast Implant Suddenly Got Squishy After Rough Handling, is It Broken?

Answers (8)

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: The squishy implant usually means rupture

Answer: The squishy implant usually means rupture

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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