If a Saline Implant Ruptured and Had Bacteria or Fungi in It, What Symptoms Might You Have?

Question

My saline implant ruptured a couple weeks ago and still has some saline left in it. Since this has happened, I've felt strange - weak, muscle aches, tired, strange pains all over that come and go. Then I saw on tv where a woman had her saline implants out and they had what I think is the same fungus that is causing the meningitis from the contaminated steroid shots. However hers hadn't ruptured. If my ruptured one does have some bacteria or fungi that is traveling around, how would I know/feel?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Fungal contamination of breast implants is very unusual, even rarer in immunocompetent individuals.  The source of the symptoms is most likely not the implants since the breasts have no signs of infection.  If there is a concern here, see your plastic surgeon and a medicine doctor.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, patients who have bacteria or fungus in their bloodstreams will have symptoms such as fevers, chills, mental status changes, extreme fatigue… Also, generally speaking it would be extremely unusual for your breast implants to have been contaminated in the way that you are concerned.

	 However, for your own peace of mind, it would be best for you to seek consultation with your physicians who are in the best position to advise,  diagnose, and/or  reassure you.

	Best wishes.

Thomas Fiala, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

These symptoms are probably unrelated to the breast implant rupture.  But, I would still recommend that you see your local internal medicine physician for an evaluation.

Norman Bakshandeh Day, MD, FACS · Answer

It is unlikely that there are bacteria or fungus in your ruptured implant. If you are concerned you need to see a plastic surgeon and have them removed.

If a Saline Implant Ruptured and Had Bacteria or Fungi in It, What Symptoms Might You Have?

Answers (4)

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: Ruptured implant

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 a Saline Implant Ruptured and Had Bacteria or Fungi in It, What Symptoms Might You Have?

Answers (4)

Answer: Ruptured implant

Answer: Ruptured implant

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.