I am very concerned that my cohesive gel implants may be ruptured or leaking. My breasts have lost volume and now look very rippled. I can also feel something like an air bubble on one side. I am having other symptoms that may be unrelated but still concerning... My arms and hands have been feeling numb and go to sleep easily. Would a Dr. be able to know if the implants are leaking with a physical exam? My implants are 8 years old, subglandular. I am considering removal, maybe a replacement.
February 3, 2016
Answer: Cohesive gel and rupture One of the purported benefits of cohesive gel implants is the decreased likelihood of leakage. Because of the cross-linking of the silicone, an implant shell which has been compromised does not result in a leak in the traditional sense of the word.That being said, manufacturers typically recommend surveillance MRI at regular intervals to assess for implant compromise. This is due tot the fact that a leak is nearly impossible to detect externally (unlike saline filled devices which simply deflate).As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.
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February 3, 2016
Answer: Cohesive gel and rupture One of the purported benefits of cohesive gel implants is the decreased likelihood of leakage. Because of the cross-linking of the silicone, an implant shell which has been compromised does not result in a leak in the traditional sense of the word.That being said, manufacturers typically recommend surveillance MRI at regular intervals to assess for implant compromise. This is due tot the fact that a leak is nearly impossible to detect externally (unlike saline filled devices which simply deflate).As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.
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Answer: Schedule an MRI One of the reasons cohesive silicone gel implants have become popular is because they rarely leak, even when ruptured. But that can also make it more difficult to know if a rupture has occurred. I would say that it's unusual for both implants to rupture. If the scar tissue around the implant has become tight (capsular contracture), then the implant may be folded, and a corner can protrude. Your symptoms of numbness are hard to explain, but I have seen that with tight capsular contracture. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your plastic surgeon.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
Answer: Schedule an MRI One of the reasons cohesive silicone gel implants have become popular is because they rarely leak, even when ruptured. But that can also make it more difficult to know if a rupture has occurred. I would say that it's unusual for both implants to rupture. If the scar tissue around the implant has become tight (capsular contracture), then the implant may be folded, and a corner can protrude. Your symptoms of numbness are hard to explain, but I have seen that with tight capsular contracture. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your plastic surgeon.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful