How To Tell If Your Breast Implant Has Ruptured

Women who are unhappy with the appearance of their breasts may experience a lack of self-esteem or confidence. Breast augmentation surgery helps countless individuals feel more comfortable in their bodies. Even though breast implants are medical-grade devices, it is important to know the risks and complications associated with surgery. Breast implant rupture occurs when the shell loses integrity due to age or trauma.

So, how safe are breast implants, and what should you do in case of a rupture? Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales is experienced in helping patients through breast implant rupture side effects and more. When you schedule a consultation at Morales Plastic Surgery, we can discuss the benefits and risks together. Contact us in Houston, TX to get the process started today.

The safety of saline and silicone breast implants

When you meet with Dr. Morales for breast augmentation, we choose implants based on your personal cosmetic goals and desired outcome. Implants come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, all of which are considered during your appointment. Saline and silicone materials are widely available and approved by the FDA for use in breast surgery.

If you have personal concerns about your implants and what happens during a rupture, you should know there is little risk involved. Saline is made of sterile saltwater, which the body naturally absorbs when ruptured. Silicone material, generally, stays in one place, even when broken, so it does not affect your body.

Signs of breast implant rupture

Patients should learn about the most common signs of breast implant rupture in case it happens in the future. Implants may rupture due to cracks in the material that develop over time or physical trauma to the breast tissue. In some cases, a rupture occurs because of an error from an untrained or inexperienced plastic surgeon. No matter how it was caused, Dr. Morales can discuss breast implant rupture side effects in Houston, TX.

Saline ruptures are easier to detect because the breasts will deflate or lose volume quickly. Some patients notice one healthy and round breast, while the other seems flat or misshapen. Others experience discomfort or changes in nipple sensation. Even if there is a small change in volume or symmetry, contact our office to schedule an examination and assessment. We will be able to tell if you have suffered from a rupture.

Silicone ruptures are more challenging to detect because the gel does not leak out of the implant. Just like a saline rupture, however, patients can still have some pain or tenderness in the breast. The only way to tell if your implant has been affected is with an MRI or other imaging service. Dr. Morales recommends getting an MRI every few years to make sure your implants are still functioning safely and effectively.

What to do if a breast implant ruptures

Patients who notice any signs of breast implant rupture should contact Dr. Morales to create a custom treatment plan. We can remove and replace the ruptured implants through revision surgery. This procedure is similar to your original breast augmentation. Patients are welcome to visit Morales Plastic Surgery, even if we did not perform your original surgery. We are proud to help you achieve natural and safe outcomes.

Learn about breast implant side effects

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales is proud to provide a range of breast surgeries in our facility in Houston, TX. The staff at Morales Plastic Surgery knows about the importance of early detection when it comes to breast implant rupture side effects, which is why we provide patients with the resources and information they need to understand it fully. Contact our state-of-the-art clinic to see how we can help you.