Breast Implant Rupture(Leak)
The saline and silicone breast implants that Dr. Ciaravino uses for breast augmentations are both extremely safe and durable implants. There are a variety of reason why breast implants may rupture, but the most common reason is the simple factor of TIME. Because they are man-made devices, over time the outer shell of the implant may wear down and cause the implant to tear or rupture. Both the saline and silicone implants have a “Life Expectancy”. The saline implant is said to have a life expectancy of 10-12 years while the Silicone implants have a life expectancy of 15-20 years. These number are not set in stone and there is no set amount of years that you should have to come in and replace the implants. We just would like to precaution you that with the wear and tear of everyday life, over time the implant could possibly deflate or rupture. It is likely that within your lifetime you may need implant exchange surgery. It is very rare that we see an early deflation within the first 10 years . We do see more saline ruptures than silicone. If you feel like your implant may have ruptured or deflated, it is important that you come in to see Dr.Ciaravino! Although it is not an immediate emergency, a ruptured or deflated implant does require surgery in a timely fashion. If your saline breast implant is deflated it is usually easy to tell. You will see shrinkage of the breast, wrinkling or looseness. The saline solution is not harmful and is simply absorbed by your body. If your silicone breast implant has ruptured it may be more difficult to tell. Many patients will have no symptoms at all. Others may experience a change in shape, a decrease in size, hardening or pain. The FDA has recommended MRI scans to look for evidence of ruptures or tears. Dr.Ciaravino examines each case on an individual basis prior to an MRI. Dr.Ciaravino’s surgical technique avoids unnecessary damage to the shell of the implant. He uses a funnel device which allows him to carefully place the implant with no trauma! This greatly reduces the risk of breat implant rupture or deflation!