South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery

A breast implant rupture occurs when the outer shell of a saline or silicone implant breaks or tears. This can cause the contents to leak—either immediately, in the case of saline, or silently over time, in the case of silicone gel.

Modern breast implants are designed to be strong and durable, but no device is completely immune to wear and tear. Ruptures can occur due to trauma, age, surgical complications, or even natural deterioration over time.

Understanding what causes implant rupture, how to detect it early, and what your options are for treatment is key to maintaining both your health and your aesthetic results.

There are several common reasons for implant failure:

 1. Aging of the Implant:

Over time, the outer shell of an implant may weaken. Most implants begin to show signs of wear after 10–15 years, although some can last much longer. Aging is the most common cause of rupture.

 2. Trauma or Impact

A car accident, a fall, or any blunt force trauma to the chest can potentially damage the implant shell. While rare, this is more likely to affect older implants.

3. Capsular Contracture

This condition occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens excessively. The increased pressure on the implant can lead to rupture, especially if the capsule becomes hardened or distorted.

4. Damage During Surgery

Improper placement, aggressive handling during insertion, or a revision procedure can weaken the implant’s shell and increase the risk of future rupture.

 5. Compression from Imaging or Biopsy

Although uncommon, procedures such as mammograms or biopsies can exert pressure on implants and may contribute to shell weakening over time—especially if implants are already aged.

Saline Implant Rupture:

A rupture in a saline implant is often easy to detect. The body absorbs the saline solution naturally, leading to a rapid deflation of the breast.

Common signs include:

• Sudden reduction in breast size
• Visible asymmetry
• Wrinkling or rippling
• A “sloshy” sensation
• Soft or collapsed feel on one side

Silicone Implant Rupture:

Silicone ruptures are more difficult to detect. The cohesive gel tends to stay within the scar capsule, making it harder to see or feel changes. These are referred to as “silent ruptures.”

Subtle signs may include:

• Breast firmness or hardening
• Swelling or soreness
• Change in shape or contour
• Tingling, burning, or numbness
• Lumps or irregularities around the implant

Because symptoms can be minimal—or absent—routine MRIs or ultrasounds are essential for anyone with silicone implants, especially after the 5–10 year mark.

Physical Exam: Your plastic surgeon may first examine the breast for visual or tactile signs of rupture and ask questions about any recent trauma or changes.

Ultrasound: A quick, noninvasive way to detect fluid leaks, gel migration, or capsular changes. Often the first line of imaging used.

MRI: The gold standard for detecting silicone implant ruptures. The FDA recommends MRIs 3 years after surgery, and every 2 years thereafter to catch silent ruptures.

If a rupture is confirmed, surgical intervention is typically recommended to remove or replace the implant and manage any related issues.

Here are common treatment strategies:

Implant Exchange:

The most common approach. Your surgeon removes the ruptured implant and replaces it with a new one. You may also opt to change the implant size, shape, or material during the revision.

Capsulectomy

Complete removal of the scar capsule surrounding the implant, especially if it has become calcified, hardened, or inflamed.

Capsulotomy

Rather than removing the capsule, a capsulotomy involves making strategic incisions in the scar tissue to release tightness and improve implant positioning.

Switching Planes

In some cases, the implant is moved from above the muscle (subglandular) to beneath the muscle (submuscular) for improved aesthetics and reduced recurrence of complications.

En Bloc Removal

Used in select cases—especially with ruptured silicone implants or patients concerned about textured implants. The implant and capsule are removed together in one piece to minimize the risk of silicone leakage into surrounding tissue.

While many patients believe implants last a lifetime, the truth is a bit more nuanced.

• Saline implants typically last 10–15 years
• Silicone implants may last 15–20 years or longer
• For saline implants, regular clinical exams are typically sufficient unless symptoms arise.
• For silicone implants, the FDA recommends an MRI or ultrasound screening five to six years after implantation, and then every two to three years thereafter, to check for silent ruptures that may not present visible symptoms.

Keep in mind that rupture isn’t the only reason for implant revision—some patients choose to update their implants for aesthetic reasons or after body changes such as weight fluctuation, pregnancy, or aging.

Although ruptures can’t be 100% prevented, regular monitoring and good care practices go a long way:

• Choose an experienced plastic surgeon
• Follow all post-op instructions carefully
• Report any new breast symptoms immediately
• Maintain regular follow-ups and imaging (especially for silicone implants)

• Saline ruptures are harmless to the body, but the breast will appear deflated.
• Silicone ruptures, while not dangerous in most cases, can result in inflammation, capsular contracture, and even silicone migration if not addressed.

Leaving a ruptured implant untreated can lead to long-term aesthetic and structural complications, so timely revision is essential.

If you’re experiencing symptoms—or just have concerns—our eligible plastic surgeons are here to guide you through the process with care and confidence.

We offer:

• State-of-the-art diagnostics and imaging referrals
• Personalized revision surgery plans
• Access to the latest implant options
• In-house patient financing options

Whether you’re looking to remove, replace, or revise your implants, we’re here to help you feel confident again.

A breast implant rupture is never something you want to deal with—but with expert care and timely treatment, it doesn’t have to derail your confidence or your results. Most patients go on to have excellent outcomes with implant exchange or revision surgery.

If you suspect a rupture or it’s simply time for a check-in, schedule your consultation today at the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery.