Breast Implant Removal and Disease

Are you considering breast augmentation, but hesitate because you’ve heard stories of silicone implants causing autoimmune diseases? As a surgical candidate, you are wise to do your research and weigh the potential risks of getting implants against the benefits. There are numerous anecdotes floating around the Internet about women that suspected their implants caused or worsened a serious health condition, and chose to remove the implants out of fear. In fact, “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Yolanda Foster opted to have her silicone breast implants removed out of suspicion they made her Lyme disease symptoms worse. The entire experience was documented on her show and watched by nearly 2 million viewers.

However, as trusted breast augmentation surgeon Dr. Florence Mussat will explain in this post, breast implants are generally safe devices and do not have a history of causing disease.

The Safety of Silicone Breast Implants

Despite anecdotal evidence, the chances of developing an implant-related disease (or a silicone implant worsening an existing disease) are nearly non-existent. There is no scientific evidence that implants contribute in any way to autoimmune disease. Although websites centered on holistic health may claim otherwise, there simply isn’t any legitimate proof (published in a respected medical journal) that shows breast implant devices are toxic or dangerous. Silicone is commonly used in many medical devices and implants, and the FDA has conducted extensive studies on the material.

Breast Implant Rupture

That said, silicone implants can rupture or leak, especially after a hard fall or blunt force to the chest (i.e., during a car accident). It can be difficult to visually detect a rupture or leak. Silicone is more cohesive than saline liquid, and a ruptured silicone implant won’t immediately or drastically alter the shape of the breast. Women with silicone breast implants are encouraged to have regular MRIs every five years to check the integrity of their implants.

Surgery to Remove Breast Implants

In the case that an implant ruptures, the implant and any free-floating silicone need to be removed. Most patients (and surgeons) recommend implant removal happen as soon as possible. While the free-floating silicone won’t cause a health problem, the ruptured implant pocket may start to shrink, and there may be associated discomfort and other side effects.

Patients with ruptured implants have the option of replacing their implants with another silicone pair, a pair of saline implants or not replacing them at all. If the implants are removed and not replaced, Dr. Mussat may perform a breast lift to tighten the skin and remaining native breast tissue.

Learn More about Breast Implants

If you have questions about silicone breast implants, implant rupture or implant removal, Dr. Mussat is happy to answer them during a consultation. Please contact her office today to schedule an appointment.