Breast Implant Rupture
Breast Implant Rupture
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the insertion of implants to enhance the size and shape of breasts. While breast implants are generally safe, there is a possibility of rupture over time. Breast implant rupture refers to the condition where the implant shell either develops a tear or hole, leading to the leakage of the implant’s contents.
Breast Implant Rupture Symptoms
Not all ruptured implants cause obvious symptoms. Some individuals may not experience any pain, discomfort, or changes in breast shape, making it more challenging to diagnose a rupture based on clinical signs alone.
Detecting a breast implant rupture is crucial for timely intervention. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
Change in breast shape or size:
Ruptured implants may cause visible changes in the shape and size of the breast. Asymmetry between the two breasts can also occur.
Breast pain or discomfort:
Ruptured implants can cause localized pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the breast area.
Hardening or lumps:
When a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution is harmlessly absorbed by the body, leading to a noticeable change in breast shape. However, if a silicone implant ruptures, it can cause the formation of hard lumps or knots due to the leaked silicone gel.
What causes breast implant ruptures?
There are several factors that can contribute to breast implant rupture. Some common causes include:
Physical Trauma
Accidental injury or significant force applied to the breast area can cause the implant shell to rupture.
Aging or wear
Over time, breast implants may weaken or develop wear and tear due to the aging process. This can increase the risk of rupture.
Surgical error
Improper surgical technique, inadequate implant placement, or damage during the insertion process can also lead to implant rupture.
Breast Implant rupture and NHS
Unfortunately, many women struggle to get a diagnosis or are referred to a specialist by their GP. This is a result of:
Variability in Presentation:
As mentioned earlier, breast implant rupture can present with varying symptoms or sometimes no symptoms at all. This variability can make it challenging to diagnose, particularly if symptoms are subtle or absent.
High Patient Load:
The NHS serves a significant number of patients, and healthcare providers often face time constraints. This heavy workload can impact the time available for in-depth consultations and thorough examinations, potentially leading to missed or delayed diagnoses.
Lack of Awareness and Education:
Diagnosing breast implant rupture requires specialized knowledge and expertise. It’s possible that healthcare professionals within the NHS may have varying levels of familiarity with this specific issue, which can lead to delays or misdiagnosis.
Limited Resources:
The availability of resources, such as advanced imaging technologies and specialized equipment for evaluating breast implant integrity, can vary across different healthcare facilities within the NHS. Limited access to these resources may hinder accurate and timely diagnosis.
It’s important to note that advancements in medical technology and increased awareness of breast implant rupture have likely improved diagnostic capabilities over time. However, there are private clinics like Implant Health that can offer testing.
How is a breast implant rupture diagnosed?
Diagnosing a breast implant rupture can sometimes be challenging, especially in cases where the rupture is not causing significant symptoms or visible changes in the breast. Here are a few reasons why diagnosing breast implant rupture can be difficult:
Silent Rupture:
Silicone breast implants can sometimes experience a “silent rupture,” where the implant shell develops a tear or hole without any noticeable symptoms. In such cases, the silicone gel may leak slowly and remain confined within the surrounding tissue, making it harder to detect without imaging techniques.
Variations in Presentation:
The presentation of breast implant rupture can vary depending on factors such as implant type, age of the implant, location of the tear, and the body’s response to the leakage. This variability can make it more challenging to establish a definitive diagnosis without additional imaging tests.
Imaging Limitations:
While imaging tests like mammography, ultrasound, and MRI are commonly used to detect breast implant ruptures, they may not always provide conclusive results. The sensitivity and accuracy of these tests can vary, and the interpretation of the images requires expertise in identifying implant integrity.
Treatment Options for Breast Implant Rupture
The treatment for breast implant rupture depends on several factors, including the type of implant, the severity of the rupture, and the patient’s overall health. Here are the primary treatment options:
Breast Implant removal:
If a rupture occurs, removal of the implant is necessary. In some cases, the surgeon may recommend removing both implants even if only one has ruptured to ensure symmetry.
Implant replacement:
After removing the ruptured implant, a new implant can be inserted during the same surgical procedure. The surgeon may also suggest changing to a different type or size of the implant.
Capsulectomy:
If the rupture has caused the formation of scar tissue (capsular contracture), the surgeon may perform a capsulectomy, which involves removing the scar tissue to restore a natural breast appearance.
Breast implant rupture is a potential complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. Recognizing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options associated with implant rupture is crucial for maintaining breast health. If you suspect a rupture, consult a qualified plastic surgeon promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Implant Health is a specialist clinic dedicated to helping women with breast implants and offering maintenance check-ups.
Our Breast Implant Screening Packages
Pricing Structure
To book a scan, use the form to select the package you would like and follow the instructions to book an appointment on a day that best suits you.
Contact Us
London Breast Clinic
One Welbeck
1 Welbeck Street
Marylebone
London. W1G 0AR
Get Directions