Breast Implant Rupture: signs and what to do
A breast implant can develop a tear in its shell — a rupture. A saline implant deflates and the breast looks smaller; a modern cohesive silicone implant often ruptures silently, with no visible change. A rupture is rarely an emergency, but it should be confirmed and the implant addressed. Dr Thomas Colson assesses and treats implant rupture at SKMC in Abu Dhabi.
Signs of breast implant rupture
Signs of breast implant rupture depend on the implant: a saline implant deflates, so the breast becomes visibly smaller over hours to days, while a cohesive silicone implant often ruptures silently or causes firmness, a change in shape, a lump, swelling or discomfort; a suspected rupture is confirmed with ultrasound or MRI.
- Deflation — one breast becoming smaller over hours to days, typical of a saline implant
- Firmness — new hardness around a silicone implant
- A change in shape or new asymmetry — one breast looking different from the other
- A lump, swelling or tenderness — in the breast or the armpit
- Often no sign at all — a silent silicone rupture is found on imaging
When to see a surgeon
Book an assessment if one breast deflates or if any of these changes appears. A rupture is rarely an emergency, but it should be confirmed and the implant addressed. Because implants are not lifetime devices and the chance of complications such as rupture increases with time, older silicone implants can also be checked with imaging even without symptoms.
How it is diagnosed at SKMC
Dr Colson examines the breast and confirms a suspected rupture with imaging — high-resolution ultrasound, and MRI when needed, the most accurate test for silicone rupture. Imaging also distinguishes rupture from capsular contracture or a fluid collection.
Two implants, two ways of rupturing
How a rupture shows depends on what the implant is filled with. Knowing your implant type helps make sense of any change you notice.
If you are unsure which implant you have, your operative record or implant card will state it, and it can also be identified on imaging.
Is this an emergency?
Usually not. Saline is simply absorbed by the body, and cohesive silicone gel tends to stay within the capsule. A suspected rupture should be assessed in good time — not overnight — to confirm it and plan the implant's removal or exchange.
| Implant | Typical sign of rupture | How it is confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| Saline | Visible deflation — the breast becomes smaller over hours to days | Often clear on examination |
| Silicone (cohesive) | Often silent — no obvious change; sometimes firmness or shape change | Ultrasound, and MRI when needed |
How a ruptured implant is managed
A confirmed rupture is treated as a breast implant revision: the implant is removed, the capsule managed as appropriate, and a new implant placed in exchange — or removal alone if you prefer not to replace it.
Dr Colson plans the revision individually, including the implant plane and, where helpful, refining shape with your own fat. Surgery is performed at SKMC within the SEHA network.
A note on privacy and results
In strict compliance with UAE MOHAP regulations regarding patient privacy and modesty, before and after photos are not displayed on this website. A comprehensive medical portfolio is available for viewing during your private consultation.
A Crisalix 3D simulation of the planned breast shape is part of the consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my breast implant has ruptured?
Is a ruptured breast implant dangerous?
How is implant rupture diagnosed?
How is a ruptured implant treated?
Should implants be replaced after a certain number of years?
Have your implants checked
In the UAE, consultations and surgery with Dr Thomas Colson are performed exclusively at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) in Abu Dhabi, within the SEHA network. A suspected rupture, or simple surveillance of older silicone implants, can be assessed by examination and imaging.
Educational disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified surgeon or health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.