What happens if an implant ruptures?

If an implant ruptures, the approach might vary depending on whether the implant is saline or silicone.

Ruptured saline implant

If a saline breast implant ruptures, the implant will deflate — causing the affected breast to change in size and shape.

Your body will absorb the leaking saline solution without health risks, but you'll probably need surgery to remove the silicone shell. If you want, a new implant can likely be inserted at the same time.

Ruptured silicone implant

If a silicone breast implant ruptures, you might not notice right away — or ever — because any free silicone tends to remain trapped in the fibrous tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant. This is known as a silent rupture.

Leaking silicone gel isn't thought to cause health problems, such as breast cancer, reproductive problems or rheumatoid arthritis. Still, a ruptured silicone breast implant might eventually cause breast pain, breast thickening, or changes in the contour or shape of the breast.

If this happens, your doctor will likely recommend surgical removal of the implant. If you want a new implant, it can usually be inserted at the same time.