45, silicone, under muscle, implant changed shape after 18 years, do I need them replaced? (Photos)

Question

I'm 45yo, have had my silicone implants (under) for 18 years About 6m ago I noticed that one of them has has changed shape and pucker (see photos). More noticeable when arms lifted. I just don't have a spare 10k to replace them now as I did when I was 27. I can't remove them completely because I had no breast tissue to begin with and I cant go back to that for the sake of my mental health. Should I go to my GP or make an appt with a surgeon my original surgeon is retired.

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Since your implants are 18 years old, any change should be evaluated.  MRI or ultrasound can help to see if they are ruptured, and if they are ruptured, then they need to be replaced.  If not, then you don't have to worry as much.  I would suggest a consultation with a plastic surgeon to help guide your decision making process and also to help arrange the MRI or ultrasound.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Happi2bme,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

One possibility is that your implant has flipped front to back. A plastic surgeon can give a better idea of the possibilities with an in-person exam, and they could confirm it with ultrasound. If this is the case, the implant could be re-rotated but if they are 18 years old it is better to replace both anyway.

Daniel Butz, MD · Answer

I would seek out a consultation with a plastic surgeon and get a full exam. 
Silicone implants can have silent ruptures - depending on the brand your risk is likely around 20-30% at this 18 year mark. Ultrasound or MRI can be used to assess the implants integrity. 
If they are soft and not ruptured there's no immediate need for surgery but if there are signs of a capsular contraction ( your photos don't support this) or it is ruptured it would be recommended to replace them.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would first ask your GP to schedule an ultrasound and possible mammogram to see if the implants are intact or ruptured. Then, go to a plastic surgeon and discuss your options. It appears that one of your implants has torn through the capsule and is poking out some.

45, silicone, under muscle, implant changed shape after 18 years, do I need them replaced? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Implant changing

Answer: Implant changing

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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.

45, silicone, under muscle, implant changed shape after 18 years, do I need them replaced? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Implant changing

Answer: Implant changing

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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.