To properly weigh the pros and cons of breast augmentation, women considering this procedure need the facts. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation floating around the Internet about implant rupture. In this blog post, Dr. George Sanders, a trusted Los Angeles breast implant surgeon, sets the record straight about implant rupture and offers tips to manage any anxiety.
What Could Cause Implants to Rupture
Modern breast implants are very strong and built to last for a long time. Most women enjoy their implants for many years. However, it is important to understand that these man-made devices are not impenetrable to rupture or leaking.
If an implant ruptures, it may happen spontaneously or slowly over time. In the former scenario, sudden trauma (such as hitting the steering wheel in a car accident) can put extreme force on the implant and cause it to rupture. In the latter scenario, the capsule around the implant could tighten, putting pressure on the implant and causing it to fold. Folding and unfolding can weaken the implant’s shell, eventually causing it to crack and the implant to leak.
How to Detect Implant Rupture
Due to the nature of their filling, it is more difficult to detect implant rupture in silicone implants than saline implants.
If a saline implant leaks, the breast flattens almost immediately as the liquid flushes out of the implant and is (safely) absorbed by the body. A quick visual check of the breasts can confirm saline implant rupture.
On the other hand, silicone gel is stickier and, if it leaks out, tends to stay around the implant shell. To the naked eye, the breast might not look any different, even though the implant has ruptured. This is why plastic surgeons encourage women with silicone implants to have an MRI every few years.
How to Manage Anxiety about Implant Rupture
Select the right surgeon to place your implants. In some cases, surgical mistakes may cause implant rupture down the line. Choose an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to perform the operation for the best chances of safety and long-term success.
Invest in quality implants. If you choose a trustworthy plastic surgeon, he probably won’t offer shoddy or cheap implants. However, it is still important to do your due diligence and research the best types of implants.
Schedule regular imaging tests. If you have silicone implants, schedule regular imaging tests to check them and rule out any problems.
Maintain a relationship with your plastic surgeon. Plastic surgeons are trained to treat complications like implant rupture. If your imaging test detects a problem with your implants, speak with your plastic surgeon about your options.
Contact Dr. George Sanders Today
For more information about breast implants, please contact Dr. Sanders at his Los Angeles-area practice. You can reach his office by calling (818) 981-3333 today.
