Silicone breast implants: What happens if they rupture?
The major problem associated with ruptured silicone breast implants is the formation of scar tissue in the breast. If the rupture isn’t addressed, the scar tissue can lead to pain and changes in the contour or shape of the breast. However, there’s no scientific evidence that ruptured silicone breast implants cause serious, long-term health problems — such as breast cancer or connective tissue diseases. When a breast implant is placed in your body, a fibrous capsule of scar tissue typically forms around the implant. If a silicone breast implant ruptures, the leaking silicone gel may cause inflammation of the fibrous capsule and the formation of additional scar tissue. The result may be a hard capsule around the breast implant that may distort the shape of your breast and cause pain or discomfort. Most women have no signs or symptoms when a silicone breast implant ruptures. However, some women may experience: • Pain, burning, tingling, swelling, numbness or redness in the affected breast
