Breast Augmentation: If an Implant Leaks
breast augmentation, Breast Implant Revision, Breast Implants, Removal Comments Off
Surveys by both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) show the vast majority of breast implant patients are happy with their breast enlargements, when the surgery is performed by qualified, experienced hands.
But among the possible risks that rear its troublesome head from time to time, a small percentage of these breast enhancement patients will report back to their surgeons, fearing that the implant is leaking or has broken.
All breast augmentation patients should be told about a possible replacement some time during their lifetimes during the first consult with the plastic surgeon, along with any other risks involved in undergoing a breast augmentation procedure.
One major manufacturer of implants published several studies revealing the deflation rates of saline implants. Approximately 3% of implants will deflate 5 years after undergoing the breast enhancement procedure. Overall, saline implants are estimated to have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Nonetheless, there is no expiration date or when a breast implant must be removed or exchanged.
For saline-filled breast implants, a leakage would not pose a health risk because this type of implant is filled with salt water, which is easily absorbed by the body.
According to the ASAPS, there is no one good medical test to show if a saline breast implant is leaking.
But signs that may indicate leaking include”
- a change in breast shape
- the breast deflating, much like air being released from a balloon.
- pain and/or tenderness
In some instances a silent rupture can occur and there are no signs at all.
For silicone implants, an MRI may be required. Each patient is unique; some women do not respond to silicone at all, while yet others do.
The technique for removing old or leaking breast implants is a surgical specialty known as explantation.
Your surgeon should be board-certified in plastic surgery and able to show you many before and after pictures of explantation.
Fortunately, some of the newer breast implants come with a warranty which may help with the cost of replacement.
admin @ March 5, 2009
