Breast implants are used in breast reconstruction and breast augmentation surgery. There are three types of breast implants: silicone, saline and alternative. There is a chance that complications will develop with the breast implants. According to the National Research Center for Women & Families, all breast implants will rupture within 20 years following the implantation. It is possible for a woman to have a leaking breast implant and not realize it; however, there are some signs that point to implant leakage.
Change in Size
A leaking breast implant may cause one breast to look smaller than the other breast. This is because the fluid isn't held still in the implant. This change in breast size may happen suddenly in the case of a full rupture; however, if the leak is slow, it will happen over the course of many days. The size of the breast continues to decrease as the fluid from the implant is absorbed by the body.
Deformity
In some cases, a leaking breast implant causes the breast to look deformed. This sign is especially true if the scar tissue that forms around the implant begins to tighten around the implant. The breast may begin to sag or the nipple may look displaced. Doctors judge the deformities on the Baker Grades scale, which classifies the deformity on a scale of I to IV. According to the scale, a grade of I is a natural looking breast, and a grade of IV is a severely deformed breast.
Other Signs
According to the Food and Drug Administration, some women may experience a tingling sensation or noticeable swelling in the affected breast. Numbness and burning in the breast are also possible when a breast implant begins to leak. In some cases, a nodule or small bump may be noticeable in the affected breast.
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