You may have chosen silicone breast implants to enhance your appearance. However, like any medical device, implants have risks, and one of the most concerning complications is a rupture. Silicone implant ruptures often go unnoticed at first, as the thick gel leaks slowly and is not absorbed by the body. This means that symptoms can develop gradually and without your awareness, making it important to recognize the warning signs.
Dr. Shaher Khan, a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Executive Plastic Surgery, specializes in breast implant removal and treating complications like rupture. Many patients experiencing unexplained pain, swelling, or changes in breast shape may not realize their silicone implants have ruptured. In this article, we describe the progressive symptoms of a silicone implant rupture.
Silent rupture and undetected risks
One of the most concerning aspects of silicone implant rupture is that it can occur without any noticeable symptoms. This is known as a silent rupture, meaning you may not realize your implant has leaked for months or even years. Because silent ruptures don’t always cause visible changes or pain, they can go undiagnosed until detected through imaging tests like MRIs. That’s why the FDA recommends regular screenings for those with silicone implants.
Changes in breast shape and size
One of the earliest signs of a silicone implant rupture is an alteration in the appearance of your breasts. The breast may appear uneven, smaller, or misshapen. This occurs because the gel leaks out slowly, leading to volume loss or distortion. Since silicone ruptures happen gradually, these changes may not be immediately obvious. You might first notice that your bra fits differently or that one breast feels heavier or firmer than the other.
Increased breast pain and tenderness
A ruptured silicone implant can cause discomfort ranging from mild tenderness to persistent pain. As the silicone gel irritates the surrounding tissue, you may experience sensitivity, aching, or sharp pain in the affected breast. This pain may worsen over time, particularly if inflammation or capsular contracture develops. The discomfort can interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to exercise, sleep, or even wear certain clothing.
Breast firmness and hardening
As your body reacts to a ruptured implant, it may develop excessive scar tissue around the area, leading to a capsular contracture. This condition causes the breast to feel unusually firm, tight, or hard to the touch. It can also make your breast appear unnaturally round or high on your chest. In severe cases, the tightening of scar tissue can lead to discomfort or even pain. Many patients with a silicone rupture experience progressive hardening over time.
Swelling and inflammation
A ruptured silicone implant often triggers an inflammatory response, leading to swelling in the affected breast. Depending on how the body reacts to the leaked silicone, this can occur gradually or suddenly. The swelling may be accompanied by redness, heat, or a feeling of tightness. If the inflammation becomes severe, it can cause significant discomfort and may indicate a more serious immune response.
Migration of silicone gel to lymph nodes
In some cases, leaked silicone can travel beyond the implant capsule to the lymph nodes. This condition, known as silicone lymphadenopathy, can cause swelling and firmness in the armpit area. Once silicone reaches the lymph nodes, your body cannot remove it naturally. The presence of silicone in the lymphatic system can lead to long-term immune reactions and potential systemic effects, such as breast implant illness (BII).
Systemic symptoms and autoimmune-like reactions
Some women with ruptured silicone implants experience a range of unexplained health symptoms that resemble autoimmune disorders. These symptoms, often associated with breast implant illness (BII), may include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Joint and muscle pain
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Skin rashes and hair loss
- Digestive problems
How to avoid the effects of silicone ruptures
There is no definitive way to prevent a silicone implant from rupturing other than removing the implant completely. While high-quality implants are designed to be durable, they are not lifetime devices. Over time, wear and tear, physical trauma, or natural aging of the implant can lead to rupture. However, there are steps you can take to detect a rupture early. Below are some key strategies to protect yourself from the complications of a silicone implant rupture:
- Get regular imaging tests: Since silent ruptures don’t always cause symptoms, routine screenings are the best way to detect them early. The FDA recommends an MRI three years after implant placement, followed by scans every two years. Regular monitoring can help identify ruptures before complications arise.
- Pay attention to breast changes: Even small changes in breast shape, size, or texture could signal a problem. If you notice any differences in your breasts—such as asymmetry, hardening, or discomfort—schedule an evaluation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Early detection can prevent more severe complications.
- Maintain overall health and immune function: Your body’s ability to respond to a rupture depends on your overall health. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help reduce inflammation and support your immune system. Additionally, if you experience unexplained symptoms that don’t improve with lifestyle changes, consider whether your implants may be a contributing factor.
- Consider breast implant removal: The most effective way to avoid the complications of a silicone rupture is to have your implants removed. If you experience (or want to avoid) pain, capsular contracture, or systemic symptoms, en bloc capsulectomy—where the implant and surrounding scar tissue are removed—can help restore your health.
A ruptured silicone implant can lead to a range of side effects, from cosmetic changes to serious health concerns. While some ruptures cause pain and inflammation, others remain undetected for years, making regular screenings and early intervention essential.
Dr. Shaher Khan and the team at Executive Plastic Surgery specialize in breast implant removal and help patients restore their health. If you suspect a rupture or want to avoid the myriad risks and complications associated with breast implants, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan to explore your options for breast implant removal.
