17 years PO, I think one implant is leaking. What should I do?

Question

I am 40 and got my implants when i was 23 in Massachusetts by a Doc named wysocki, they are saline and tear drop. I am pretty sure my left one is leaking and getting smaller and its super soft, to soft . I am freaking about this. I now live in Young Harris Ga. Any advice?

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Fortunately, saline implant rupture is not medically dangerous.  You should consult with a Plastic Surgeon in your area to discuss removal and replacement.  It is typically a short outpatient procedure.  Best wishes.

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

You just need to set up a consultation with a reputable surgeon in your local area. Replacement of your implants can be a very straightforward procedure, often with little downtime. Most implants have a warranty for rupture and it is likely that you will not have to pay for the implants to be replaced. I would suggest replacing both of the implants.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

If your saline implant is leaking you will get a "flat tire" and it wont be hard to tell. If your breast deflates go see a board certified plastic surgeon and inquire about replacement. Your only decisions are do you want to change size and do you want a silicone or saline.

Jeffrey K. Scott, MD · Answer

"Freaking out" won't help. You have no need to worry. Simply find a reputable board certified plastic surgeon in your area and if possible obtain the records of your implant surgery 23 years ago. Be comforted that replacing a ruptured saline implant is a very routine procedure. If one is ruptured I would suggest replacing both implants since they are over 20 years old. Good luck.

Victor Ferrari, MD, FACS · Answer

From your description, it definitely sounds like your implant is leaking.  It's best to go see a PS certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who has plenty of experience with implants.  If you can get your implant info or a copy of your operative note from Dr. Wysocki, take it with you to the consult.  It will help your surgeon in planning your revision and they can check to see if your actual implant will be free from the manufacturer.

Gregory Sexton, MD · Answer

Usually when a saline implant leaks, it loses most of the volume rapidly, and there is no question. Since you are not certain, just make an appointment to see a local Plastic Surgeon, and he should be able to tell you.Good luck,Greg Sexton, M.D.Columbia, S.C.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

You should see a board certified plastic surgeon near you. Most patients who have a saline implant deflation after the 10 year mark will opt to have both replaced as the "other" implant can theoretically deflate at any time which would result in another surgery. In my experience most patients with saline deflations opt for silicone replacement implants to avoid this problem in the future. If you have them both removed the shape you end up with depends on the volume of the implants that are removed and the ability of your own tissue to contract. You should have a very good idea of what you would look like by examining the shape of your breast with the current deflation. Hope this helps.

17 years PO, I think one implant is leaking. What should I do?

Answers (7)

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