Can I refill 25 year old Breast Implants via the ports?

Question

I have had breast implants for 25 years. They're silicone bags and saline filled. That are buckling.i don't want to replace them just want to know if you can just refill them via the ports. I can see the ports in a mammogram.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

The old saline implants can be filled fuller by putting the filling tube back in the implant port and adding saline. But this cannot be done without going to the operating room and having the same incision opened and dissecting down to the implant. If you do that it only makes sense to put in a new implant and start fresh. 25 year old implants should always be replaced if you are operating on the breast, not just refilled. You also have the opportunity to go bigger or smaller or go to silicone if you would like. Good luck.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I would not recommend refilling these implants.  If they have buckled it may be that the silicone or saline shell has ruptured.  In any case, manipulating these implants may lead to further damage.  You would pay for surgery and then possibly need them revised soon after.  I would recommend exchange for new form stable, cohesive gel implants than can last.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Thanks for asking your question. Implants, either saline or silicone are designed as single use items. Technically, they should not be reused. At age twenty five years, They can be left alone or replaced. The valves will likely not hold volume if refilled. If you are experiencing rippling or buckling, you should discuss replacing them or other procedures to obtain the result you desire.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Calm793373,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No, they will not be able to be refilled since the outer bag is probably leaking by now.  You need new implants, or keep what you have until they are totally flat.

Douglas J. Raskin, MD (retired) · Answer

Greetings,

Old saline implants inside your body are subjected to material aging. It is very likely that the silicon bag is much more likely to fail and the filling valve is at higher risk for shearing from the envelope or leaking thru the valve (filling port) itself.

The consultation you could have with your plastic surgeon can provide you with options for your augmentations.
Best Regards,

Can I refill 25 year old Breast Implants via the ports?

Answers (6)

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