Posted March 14, 2019 in Breast Implant Rupture
Breast augmentation is known to provide women with an aesthetically pleasing bust by enhancing the size and shape of the breasts. This procedure is typically performed using saline or silicone breast implants placed either over or under the breast muscle to produce a more balanced figure. Women planning to undergo breast augmentation are often informed about the possibility of their implants rupturing. In the event of a rupture, Dr. Ghere can perform breast revision surgery to correct this issue.
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How Do Implants Get Ruptured?
Implant ruptures can occur when there is trauma to the outer shell of the implant. This can cause the inner volumizing solution to fill the breast pocket. Implant ruptures typically happen many years after the procedure as a result of aging and wear on the shell. While spontaneous ruptures are possible, they are rare and are more likely to happen to patients who have older implants. Implant ruptures do not cause any harm to your health. However, you will want to seek immediate medical attention.
Depending on the type of implant you chose, some women can detect an implant rupture as it occurs while others may not know their implants have ruptured until they visit their surgeon.
- Saline implants: A rupture of this type of implant will result in an obvious deflation of the breast. Saline implants generally pose little to no health risks because your body will quickly and safely absorb the solution.
- Silicone implants: These implants generally require an MRI screening to detect any issues. Silicone implants will leak at a slower pace than saline implants since they are mostly filled with a cohesive gel. You will be less likely to notice immediate changes to your breasts. Silicone gel does not extravasate as it did in the past. The newer generation of cohesive implants uses a technology that makes the gel stick to itself. If you were to cut open one of these cohesive silicone gel implants, the gel would not bleed out, much like if you were to cut through a gummy bear. This is why the newer gel implants are often referred to as gummies.
Implant Warranties
A replacement implant may be covered depending on when you had your breast augmentation surgery and the cause of your rupture. Some manufacturer warranties will vary between certain types of implant. Make sure to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ghere for further information regarding your implant warranty.
Correcting Ruptured Implants
Breast revision surgery is a surgical procedure that removes the ruptured implant and replaces it with a new one. The level of correction needed for your surgery will depend on the implant type, the incision made during your original procedure, and the severity of your rupture. In some instances, the scar tissue may need to be entirely removed. During your surgery, Dr. Ghere will remove the affected implant while rinsing out the breast pocket. Once the treatment area has been thoroughly cleaned, she will gently place the new implant into the breast pocket.
To learn more about breast revision surgery, please contact Dr. Ghere at (225) 412-4774 or schedule a consultation with us online today!