Chest x-ray findings of my implants. What do they mean?

Question

I just got a chest x-ray and I'm not sure if my implant had ruptured by what it says on the findings. I am seeing my doctor next week, but I'd like to get information beforehand. My implants are 27 years old, which I am totally all for a revision. Here are the findings: New density over the right lower chest represents artifact related to breast implant. Does this mean that I have a rupture? By the way, my right breast is drooping. :( Thank you in advance.

Rukmini S. Rednam, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello toponderon,I know it can be hard to be patient but in this case I would recommend waiting to talk with you doctor at your appointment next week.  MRI and not X-ray is the gold standard for evaluating the integrity of silicone breast implants but certainly any new finding should be evaluated by your doctor. Artifact in an x-ray can be from movement, material or any number of things so without seeing the image nothing can really be said.  That being said even with the image a definitive answer may not be known because of the type of imaging. I would speak with our board certified plastic surgeon to determine if there is a concern for rupture or if additional imaging if needed. Best of Luck!Dr. Rednam

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

A chest xray can not determine if your breast implants have ruptured.  The best way of telling is with an MRI.  At times, a mammogram can suggest a rupture but an MRI is usually required to determine if in fact they are.Hope that helps.

Basim A. Matti, MBChB FRCS · Answer

Answer: Hi, and thank you for your question. As you are no doubt aware, breast implants do not last a lifetime, and do need to be replaced eventually.  You might benefit from an MRI or ultrasound, which will give your surgeon more information on the integrity of your implant and the health of your breast tissue, but I would advise that you speak with your doctor and arrange these scans, along with a follow-up consultation. Wishing you the very best.

Erik Hoy, MD · Answer

Sorry you are having to deal with this problem with your implants!  The xray findings are not very specific-- it's best to see your plastic surgeon in consultation, and to obtain an ultrasound or MRI to better investigate to possibility of a ruptured implant.  Hoping for good news for you!Best wishes,--Erik Hoy, MDProvidence Plastic Surgeon

Chest x-ray findings of my implants. What do they mean?

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Answer: Chest x-ray findings of my implants, what do they mean?

Answer: Chest x-ray findings of my implants, what do they mean?

Answer: Question of breast implant rupture

Answer: Question of breast implant rupture

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Chest x-ray findings of my implants. What do they mean?

Answers (9)

Answer: Chest x-ray findings of my implants, what do they mean?

Answer: Chest x-ray findings of my implants, what do they mean?

Answer: Question of breast implant rupture

Answer: Question of breast implant rupture

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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.