Breast Implant Rupture - What it Means and How it’s Managed

13 Aug

Breast implants are designed to be strong and durable, but like any medical device, they are not designed to last forever. Over time, wear and tear, injury, or natural ageing of the implant shell can cause it to break – this is called a rupture.

While the word “rupture” can sound alarming, most cases are not emergencies, and there are safe, effective options for managing them.

What is a breast implant rupture?

A rupture happens when the outer shell of a breast implant develops a tear or hole. Depending on the type of implant, the signs and symptoms can vary:

Saline implants – When a saline implant ruptures, the water inside leaks out and is absorbed by the body. The breast usually deflates quickly, making the rupture obvious.
Silicone implants – Modern silicone gel implants contain a cohesive gel that often stays within the implant shell or the surrounding scar tissue (capsule). This means a rupture may not be immediately noticeable — sometimes called a “silent rupture.”

Causes of implant rupture

Natural ageing of the implant (most implants are designed to last between 10-15 years, but this varies)
Trauma or injury to the chest
Surgical damage during the operation
Capsular contracture (thickened scar tissue squeezing the implant)
Manufacturing defects (rare with modern implants)

Signs & symptoms

You may notice:

Changes in breast shape or size
Softening or hardening of the breast
Lumps or rippling of the implant
Pain, tenderness, or swelling
Or no symptoms at all — particularly with silicone implants

How is rupture diagnosed?

Physical examination – There may be visible or palpable changes in the breast.
Imaging – Ultrasound or MRI scans are used to confirm a rupture, especially for silicone implants.

Management options

If a rupture is confirmed, Dr Law will discuss the best option for you, based on your symptoms, the type of implant, and your preferences.

1. Remove without replacement

The ruptured implant can be simply removed.

2. Remove with breast lift (mastopexy) and/or fat grafting

You may choose to have your implants removed, and combine this with fat grafting or a breast lift to improve your breast shape and contour.

3. Remove and replace the implant

Some patients choose to have the ruptured implant removed and replaced in the same surgery.
This can be an opportunity to update your implants — for example, to a different size, shape, or newer technology.

4. Observation (for certain silent implants)

In rare cases where there are no symptoms and the rupture is contained, you may choose to monitor with regular imaging.
Most surgeons recommend removal due to the small but possible risks of inflammation or changes to surrounding tissue.

Why prompt management is recommended

While a rupture is usually not dangerous, untreated silicone ruptures can cause:

Capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue)
Breast shape distortion
Inflammation or discomfort

For these reasons, most surgeons advise treating a rupture once it’s diagnosed.

The bottom line

A breast implant rupture can be unsettling, but it’s not usually a health emergency. With the right surgical care, the ruptured breast implant can be removed and the breast reshaped.

If you suspect a rupture or notice any changes in your breasts, it’s important to arrange an assessment with a specialist plastic surgeon. They can guide you through your options and help you choose the solution that’s right for you.

Dr. Jenaleen Law
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
MED0001775113