Is it possible for a cannula used during lipo to puncture a silicone breast implant causing a leak during liposuction?

Question

Is it possible for a canula used during lipo to puncture a silicone breast implant causing a leak? Or is the canula not sharp enough?

Roger Tsai, MD · Answer

Great question!  Technically yes, if your surgeon isn't careful or very rough, the breast implant can rupture.  If you have saline implants, then you will know right away if there is an issue as they will flatten over a couple of days.  Silicone implants are harder to notice a rupture.  It is best to see your plastic surgeon for an evaluation and examination.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai  @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello.
Great question. Rupture of breast implant due to liposuction canal should not happen. However, it may if your surgeon doesn't have good technique. If you think it occurred to you, I would suggest following up with your surgeon asap.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction uses blunt instruments but they can still injure nearby devices if contact is made.  Besides being an experienced liposuction specialist, this injury risk can be almost eliminated with the patient being awake and responsive during the procedure.  Entry into areas that haven't been numbed isn't tolerated by the patient and therefore puts up a wall to this possibility.  And for the surgeon, an important technical safe guard is to always keep your eyes on the patient and feel for the cannula with your non-dominant hand while performing lipo.

Shayne Webb, MD · Answer

Yes, if the cannula comes into contact with the implants, then the implants can be damaged.  This is why preop markings and careful intraoperative positioning is so important.Best wishes

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, It is a possibility that the cannula can puncture the implant, I would recommend seeing your surgeon for an evaluation because implant leakage can be dangerous as well. I hope this was helpful. Best, Dr. Emer

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction cannulas can potentially rupture a breast implant, however the risk of this is extremely low if the procedure is done by an experienced surgeon.  Best wishes.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

VeronicaUnfortunately, it is possible to rupture a silicone or saline implant with a liposuction cannula, even though it is blunt tipped. If there is a concern, ultrasound of the involved breast is a good place to start.  Discuss this possible issue with your plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear veronicavee,it is unlikely that an experienced plastic surgeon will cause implant rupture during liposuction, that is a possibility. 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. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Blunt cannulas used during liposuction could puncture an implant. While they are blunt, with enough force the shell can be compromised.When performing liposuction, it is very important that an awareness of the location of the tip of the cannula be maintained throughout the procedure. Your surgeon must be able to appreciate (during this essentially blind procedure) where and how deep they are not only to avoid inadvertent injury but also to obtain a smooth and consistent result.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, it is possible for a cannula to rupture a silicone gel implant. The shell of the implant can be damage by direct sharp trauma.

Is it possible for a cannula used during lipo to puncture a silicone breast implant causing a leak during liposuction?

Answers (20)

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