Will a water tubing crash rupture a new silicone implant? 2 months post-op.

Question

I had a breast lift and augmentation with silicone implants almost 7 weeks ago and was on a friend's boat water tubing and crashed into water, will that rupture an implant?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi busyhorsemom, 
  
I do understand your concern. Though I suspect that your implants have not ruptured in relation to the trauma you've mentioned, it is difficult ascertain anything without an in-person examination. It is best that you visit a board certified plastic surgeon to have yourself properly assessed. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS · Answer

Silicone implants - especially the new "form stable" or "gummy bear" types are very tough and hard to break.  In fact Sientra brand implants not only have the lowest rate of rupture compared with Natrelle(Allergan) and Mentor, but Sientra OPUS implants now come with a 20 year warranty- the best in the business.While it is very unlikely that blunt trauma such as you experienced would rupture your implant, at just 7 weeks after a breast lift, you might pop internal breast sutures and also get a hematoma - bleeding beneath the skin which can cause other complications.  I typically recommend that women avoid watersports for 2-3 months after breast lift with augmentation. It's probably worth your while to see your plastic surgeon for follow up just to be sure all is OK.  I wish you the Best of Luck!

William Aiello, MD · Answer

Hi busyhorsemom, Very soon after surgery for these kind of extra curriculars! Your implants should be intact, they are very difficult to break. You can see on social media the newest gel implants being stomped on by women in high heels and run over by cars and remaining perfectly intact. However, your breasts may be bruised from such an impact, so I would get checked out. Down the road, small bleeds and trauma may lead to contracture issues. I would continue to monitor them closely and watch for any changes in their firmness. And lay off the water tubing for a while!

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It would be hard to break or rupture a silicone gel implant.  My surgical assistant has run over them with her heavy SUV trying to break them.  I feel certain that you did not damage them during water sports.  If you have any doubts, make an appointment with your surgeon for an exam.

Will a water tubing crash rupture a new silicone implant? 2 months post-op.

Answers (4)

Answer: Silicone Breast Implants are Strong

Answer: Silicone Breast Implants are Strong

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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

Will a water tubing crash rupture a new silicone implant? 2 months post-op.

Answers (4)

Answer: Silicone Breast Implants are Strong

Answer: Silicone Breast Implants are Strong

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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