TL;DR:
Breast implants can rupture over time, and spotting the early signs helps you respond quickly.
If you’ve had breast surgery in Singapore or are considering it, understanding what a rupture looks like, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment steps can help you stay prepared. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. When a saline implant ruptures, your body absorbs the saline harmlessly.
The most noticeable sign is a sudden change in breast size or shape. You may notice that one breast looks smaller or feels softer than before. Some people also notice wrinkling or a deflated appearance. These changes often appear quickly, making saline implant ruptures easier to detect.
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that resembles natural breast tissue. A silicone rupture can be less obvious than a saline rupture because the gel may stay within the implant shell or surrounding tissue.
This is called a “silent rupture” because it may not change the breast’s shape immediately. You might notice subtle differences, such as firmness, lumps, or swelling, but sometimes there are no visible signs at all.
Regardless of the implant type, certain symptoms may indicate a rupture. These include:
If you experience any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your breast surgeon promptly. Early detection can prevent complications and ensure your breasts look and feel good.
Worried about implant rupture or breast health after surgery? At Polaris Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we can assess your implants and discuss your options. Contact us today.
Your doctor may use a combination of imaging tests and physical exams to confirm whether an implant has ruptured.
MRI is the most reliable way to catch silicone implant ruptures, even when there are no obvious signs. Ultrasound can detect ruptures and fluid collections, while saline implants are often quickly assessed with a visual inspection or ultrasound.
A plastic surgeon can detect signs of rupture during a clinical examination. They check for firmness, asymmetry, or changes in breast contour. While a physical exam alone may not identify all silent ruptures, it helps determine whether imaging is needed.
A ruptured implant is usually not life-threatening. Saline leaks are absorbed by the body without harm. Silicone leaks rarely cause systemic health problems, but they can lead to discomfort and complications, such as inflammation, pain, or changes in breast shape.
Spotting a rupture early lets you avoid complications and take prompt action with the right treatment.
If a rupture occurs, surgeons tailor treatment based on your implant type, breast anatomy, and personal goals.
Some people opt to remove a ruptured implant rather than replace it. This approach works well if you no longer want implants or wish to avoid additional breast augmentation surgery. Removal restores your natural breast tissue while eliminating the risks of a damaged implant.
Many people choose to replace a ruptured implant with a new one to restore their breast shape and volume. In these cases, your surgeon will remove the damaged implant and insert a new saline or silicone implant, often adjusting the size or type to match your current body and goals.
If a rupture occurs alongside sagging or tissue laxity, surgeons may recommend a breast lift (mastopexy) at the same time. This restores a youthful breast position and improves overall contour.
A lift with implant replacement ensures your breasts look balanced and stay in the right position.
While implant ruptures can occur over time, you can take proactive steps to protect your implants and maintain your results after surgery.
Stay on top of your breast health with routine appointments after breast surgery. Even if everything feels normal, periodic assessments allow your surgeon to spot changes early. For silicone implants, imaging such as MRI can detect silent ruptures before they cause issues.
Pay attention to any shifts in your breasts — firmness, swelling, lumps, or asymmetry. Noticing changes early lets you act quickly and seek specialist evaluation, protecting your breast shape and implant integrity.
Avoid trauma to the chest, whether from accidents, contact sports, or improper exercise. Wearing a supportive bra during physical activity reduces stress on your implants and preserves results from your breast surgery.
Stable weight, good posture, and regular exercise all support implant longevity. Sudden weight changes or strain on chest muscles can affect the appearance of your breasts or the position of your implants.
Suspect a rupture or need a breast reassessment? You should consult with a specialist as soon as possible to prevent any complications.
At Polaris Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Singapore, we’ll examine your breasts, recommend imaging if needed, and outline safe treatment options, including breast augmentation surgery and implant adjustments. Book an appointment today.