What Are the Effects of silicone Implant Leakage?

Question

I got the submuscular implants 5 years ago, and due to an accident one month ago I suspect that one of my silicone implants has a rupture cause I have pain and a non remarkable but still noticeable change on the shape, specifically on the external side of the breast. And however I realize it may need surgery I probably should wait some months because of my demanding work and also my economical situation. So I wonder which can be the effects of this kind of leacking

Lisa J. Peters, MD · Answer

There is a risk of leak with any type of implant and trauma to the breast can increase that risk.  When a silicone implant has leaked, some women will notice a change in the look or feel of their breast and some will have pain, but most will not notice any symptoms.  Even experienced plastic surgeons can often have difficulty determining whether a silicone implant has ruptured.  An MRI is the most accurate way of determining whether a silicone implant has leaked, and the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have an MRI 3 years after their surgery and every 2 years thereafter to check for a leak.  Given that you've noticed a change in your breast, particularly if you have not yet had an MRI to check your implants, you should talk to a board certified plastic surgeon about having one now.If your implant is found to be ruptured, most commonly the silicone is contained within the rim of scar tissue (the "capsule") around your implant and isn't problematic in the short-term.  If left untreated, it is possible that the silicone could extend through the capsule into the surrounding breast tissue or even travel to lymph nodes.  If your implant is leaking, it should be removed and most women choose to have their implant replaced.  I don't believe this is an emergency (i.e. it doesn't have to be done in the next few days or weeks), but I don't recommend leaving it untreated for an extended period of time.  I suggest you see your plastic surgeon, discuss the pros and cons of an MRI, and if your implant is leaking, have surgery in the next few months once your finances will allow.

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is a common concern among those with and those considering silicone implants. The older style of implants had thinner shells, less cohesion and other "additives" to the silicone. As a result there was rupture or leakage and then irritation of the capsule. The newer generation of implants are a much more cohesive (solid) form of silicone. They are like gummy bears. They have not shown any tendency to leak out. It would be very unlikely that your implant is ruptured. Hopefully you have a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area that can exam you and council you appropriately. Best of Luck!

Howard N. Robinson, MD (retired) · Answer

Movement of free silicone is very slow with the current gel implants by Mentor, Allergan, or Sientra, Ii your implants are actually ruptured.  That needs to be determined and you should start with a mammogram.  Sometimes the scar capsule around the implant tears and makes the breast feel softer.  Make certain you have a rupture so you can plan accordingly.

What Are the Effects of silicone Implant Leakage?

Answers (3)

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