Breast implants do not “pop” in a sudden, explosive manner like a balloon. Instead, their outer shell can develop a tear or hole, medically termed rupture. This rupture typically occurs gradually or due to significant force, not an internal pressure explosion.
The Truth About “Popping”
The dramatic image of a breast implant “popping” is a common misconception. Implants do not burst with an audible sound or sudden, violent deflation. A rupture involves a breach in the implant’s outer shell, allowing its contents to leak. This is generally a more subtle event, often developing over time or resulting from a direct impact.
How Different Implant Types Rupture
The way an implant ruptures depends on its filling. Saline implants contain a sterile saltwater solution. When a saline implant ruptures, this solution leaks out and is safely absorbed by the body, leading to noticeable and rapid deflation of the breast. This change in breast size or shape is quickly apparent.
Silicone gel implants behave differently. They often undergo a “silent rupture” (intracapsular rupture) where the cohesive silicone gel remains contained within the fibrous capsule around the implant. This means there are often no immediate or obvious symptoms. In less common instances, the gel can move outside this capsule (extracapsular rupture).
Factors Leading to Implant Rupture
Several factors can contribute to implant rupture. Trauma, such as a severe impact to the chest, can cause damage to the implant shell. Implants are not lifetime devices; their shells can weaken over time due to normal wear and tear, increasing the risk of rupture as they age.
Capsular contracture, a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens, can exert pressure, potentially leading to its rupture. Manufacturing defects can also predispose an implant to premature failure. Issues arising during surgery, such as excessive force or improper instrument use, can also contribute to later rupture.
Identifying a Ruptured Implant
Detecting a ruptured implant varies by type. For saline implants, a significant and rapid change in breast size or shape, appearing deflated, is the most common sign. Some individuals may also experience tenderness or mild discomfort.
Silicone ruptures are frequently asymptomatic, known as silent ruptures. When symptoms do occur, they can include subtle changes in breast shape or size, firmness, pain, or lumps in the breast or armpit if gel migrates. Routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screenings are important for detection.
Next Steps After Suspected Rupture
If a breast implant rupture is suspected, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate and likely recommend diagnostic imaging to confirm the rupture. An MRI is the most reliable method for detecting silicone implant ruptures, especially silent ones, due to its high accuracy. Ultrasound or mammogram may also be used.
Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the compromised implant and any leaked contents. Options for replacement or no replacement can then be discussed with the surgeon.