Breast implants are flexible silicone shells filled with saline or silicone gel and designed to last for 10-20 years before they need to be replaced. While rare, it is possible for a breast implant to rupture prematurely and need to be replaced. At Maia Plastic Surgery, our mammoplasty specialist, Dr. Munique Maia, offers breast implant rupture repair surgery at our clinic in Tysons Corner, VA.

What Causes Breast Implant Leaks or Ruptures?

Breast implants are very durable and can last for many years without any leaks or ruptures. However, it is possible to crack, penetrate or burst an implant, causing it to leak inside the breast. Some of the common causes of breast implant ruptures include:

• Surgical incisions or errors
• Impact to the implant
• Compression during a mammography
• Deterioration of the implant from aging

When a breast implant ruptures, it may not be noticeable right away, especially if it is a silicone implant. With saline implants, the water is quickly absorbed by the body and the breast can deflate, changing the size and shape of the breast. With silicone implant ruptures, the silicone leak is less noticeable and may not change the breast shape at all. Some patients have breast pain or sensitivity with an implant rupture, but not all patients have symptoms.

If a silicone or saline implant is ruptured or leaking, it is vital to schedule a breast implant rupture repair surgery immediately. Implants can be removed completely in both breasts, usually combined with a breast lift, or replaced with new implants.

Breast implant ruptures are not common without some type of impact to the implant. However, if you notice a difference in the shape of your breast or have any symptoms, contact us at Maia Plastic Surgery in Tysons Corner, VA. We can schedule a breast implant exam and discuss the options available if you need breast implant rupture repair or corrective breast surgery.