Breast augmentation, a common plastic surgical procedure utilizing silicone gel or saline implants, can significantly enhance one’s confidence and appearance. However, like any medical device, there can be complications necessitating awareness of signs, immediate steps to take, and subsequent treatment options. Here we will discuss general information about implant ruptures, the differences between silicone and saline implant ruptures, treatment options, and long-term outlook.
Is Implant Rupture an Emergency?
While not always an immediate emergency, an implant rupture warrants prompt attention. Breast implant ruptures can occur due to trauma, age, or manufacturer defects, potentially leading to discomfort or changes in breast appearance. Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial to address the issue early and adequately.
Signs and Symptoms of Implant Rupture
Detecting an implant rupture can be tricky as symptoms may vary between individuals. For silicone implant ruptures, the gel is cohesive and might remain confined within the breast capsule, causing a “silent rupture” without noticeable aesthetic changes. On the other hand, saline implant ruptures usually result in a rapid deflation, leading to a clearly drastic visible change in breast size. Some general symptoms of implant rupture may include pain, swelling, redness, or changes in breast size/shape/texture.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you suspect an implant rupture, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon promptly. Regardless of symptoms, regular check-ups, and imaging scans aid in detecting silent ruptures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the method for diagnosis of silicone implant ruptures, as they might not cause visible changes. Other imaging techniques like ultrasound or mammography can help detect breast implant ruptures, but are not confirmatory.
Silicone Implant Rupture vs. Saline Implant Rupture
Differentiating between the two types of breast implant ruptures is crucial. Silicone implant ruptures can be more challenging to detect due to the nature of silent ruptures, requiring specialized imaging for diagnosis. Conversely, saline implants tend to deflate noticeably and rapidly, making the rupture more visibly apparent.
Treatment Options
Upon diagnosis, surgical removal of the ruptured implant is often recommended. While it may not be an emergency, most plastic surgeons will advise a window of several months for removal. In the case of silicone implants, the gel may need to be removed from the breast capsule. The procedure aims to restore the natural shape of the breast and address any complications, such as capsular contracture or the involvement of surrounding tissues. Some patients will opt for total breast implant removal while others may opt for breast implant exchange and/or mastopexy. This decision will be based on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and what their plastic surgeon advises is reasonable and best for their specific set of circumstances.
Prevention and Long-term Care
Choosing an FDA-approved implant manufacturer and discussing the risks with your plastic surgeon before breast augmentation is crucial. Regular check-ups, self-examinations, and imaging facilitate early detection of ruptures. Additionally, staying informed about advancements in implant technology and consulting your surgeon regarding proper post-operative protocols and long-term follow-up after breast augmentation surgery can minimize risks.
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Should you notice any signs of a possible implant rupture or desire routine check-ups, scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is imperative. They can perform examinations, discuss concerns, and recommend the best course of action.
Breast augmentation using implants is a personal choice that can positively impact self-esteem. However, being aware of potential risks like implant ruptures is crucial for long-term satisfaction. By staying informed, regularly monitoring your implants, and seeking immediate medical attention if any issues arise, you can ensure optimal outcomes from your breast augmentation surgery.
While implant ruptures can pose concerns, timely intervention and expert care from a skilled plastic surgeon can effectively address these issues.