According to MSc., MD Ho Cao Vu, in cases involving silicone gel implants, rupture often goes unnoticed because most cases are asymptomatic. This is referred to as a "silent rupture." Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most accurate method for detecting implant rupture.
Dr. Vu performing ruptured implant explantation
Common causes of breast implant rupture include capsular contracture or pseudocapsule formation, which create uneven pressure on the implant over time; implant shell degradation in certain implant lines that may occur over 10–20 years; surgical technique-related damage to the implant shell; and direct trauma or impact to the chest.
In cases of implant rupture, patients should consult a qualified surgeon to perform explantation in order to thoroughly clean the implant pocket, ensure no silicone residue is left behind, and avoid missing associated complications such as granulomas, inflamed or infected tissue, or thickened fibrotic tissue that may cause pain.
Ruptured saline implant after 15 years
There are two types of implant rupture that can occur within the first 1 to 3 months post-surgery, known as external rupture. This occurs before the "protective capsule" has fully formed. The rupture is typically caused by intraoperative damage to the implant shell during surgery, resulting in early implant failure.
Internal rupture occurs after the breast has fully developed a stable fibrous capsule. In these cases, the surgery was initially successful, but the implant ruptures inside the capsule (pocket) over time. This is often associated with saline implants or implants from brands that lack safety certifications from recognized medical and scientific organizations over a 10-year period.
Dr. Vu explants ruptured textured Allergan implant
In addition, internal implant rupture may be caused during the insertion process, when the surgeon inadvertently causes partial damage to the implant shell or creates an implant pocket that is inadequately sized. In such cases, the shell may fold upon placement, leading to uneven degradation over time. A pocket that is too narrow, with unreleased fascial or muscular tension, can result in implant entrapment and uneven pressure distribution, increasing the risk of rupture in specific areas.
Ultrasonic scalpel–assisted explantation of ruptured implant
Regardless of the cause, implant rupture is dangerous if left undetected. Prolonged exposure of silicone gel inside the pocket can alter tissue structure, promote vascular congestion and fluid accumulation, and, in some cases, cause bleeding within the pocket.
Dr. Ho Cao Vu advises that if any signs of implant rupture are present, patients should promptly visit a medical facility or contact their surgeon. The issue can be resolved in a timely manner using a minimally invasive surgical approach with the Ultrasonic Surgical Scalpel. Its cut–seal–coagulate function enables effective hemostasis, minimizes fluid buildup, accelerates healing, reduces the risk of capsular contracture, and prevents scarring around the implant pocket.
Dr. Vu explants ruptured textured Eurosilicon implant
Dr. Ho Cao Vu has over 15 years of experience in aesthetic surgery and has personally performed more than 3,000 breast aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. For patients who have previously undergone implant rupture removal and implant replacement, he recommends undergoing specialized breast MRI to assess breast pathology, implant-related conditions, implant integrity, capsular contracture, and pocket status.
Dr. Ho Cao Vu is highly experienced in correcting complicated breast cases, including implant malposition, asymmetry, implant exposure, rupture, symmastia, bottoming out, and severe capsular contracture (grade 3 and 4). In 2010, he completed hands-on training at the Department of Plastic Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center Hospital, Houston, Texas, under the direct mentorship of Professor David Chang. He has performed over 3,000 ultrasonic scalpel–assisted procedures in breast augmentation, mastopexy, and abdominoplasty.
