Exchanging Breast implants

Implant ruptures and surveillance

Oct 22, 2022

How do u know if your implant has ruptured?

In some cases, implant rupture can result in a visual change to the breast, hardening around the implant or symptoms of pain and discomfort. However, at least a third of implant ruptures are ‘silent’, which means that the implant has ruptured but is contained within the implant capsule. The only way these can be identified is if they are examined using an ultrasound scan and/or MRI. 

How do I know if my implants are PIP?

PIP implants were used in the UK between 1991 and 2010. It is estimated that 50,000 PIP implants were sold in the UK. You may have been given details about your implants at the time of your breast augmentation procedure and this would include the implant manufacturer. If you do not have these details, you can contact the hospital/clinic where you underwent your breast augmentation and they should be able to tell you from their records. You should also check with your GP as they may have been sent the information from your hospital/clinic.

How often should I get my implants checked?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently recommends that you should begin implant surveillance 2-3 years after having them inserted. This should be performed, ideally, with MRI scans at 2-yearly intervals. Ultrasound performed by an experienced doctor can also be as accurate as an MRI and more easily accessible. 

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