If you have breast implants, it is important to be aware of the signs that they may need to be replaced. Some women experience implant problems, such as leakage, rupture, or capsular contracture. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.

1. Change in shape

If you notice that your breasts are no longer the same shape as they were before, this may be a sign that your implants need to be replaced. Implants can often become misshapen over time, especially if they have leaked or ruptured. This is due to the natural process of the implant capsule contracting due to changes in the scar tissue that forms around it.

2. Hard lumps or bumps

If you feel hard bumps or lumps in your breasts, this may be a sign that your implants need to be replaced. Often, these lumps are caused by capsular contracture, which is a condition where the scar capsule contracts and squeezes the implant. This can cause the implant to become misshapen or even rupture.

3. Swelling or inflammation

If you experience swelling or inflammation in your breasts, this may be a sign that your implants need to be replaced. Often, this is caused by capsular contracture but is also a common sign of other complications that have arisen since inserting the implants.

4. Pain or tenderness

If you experience pain or tenderness in your breasts, call Dr. Golosow and come in for an examination. This pain can often be caused by capsular contracture, which can cause tightness and pain around the implant. Also, if the implant has leaked, the leaked silicone can cause inflammation and pain.

5. Leaking or rupture

One of the clearest signs that your implants need to be replaced is if they start to leak or rupture. Saline implants will leak out and the solution will be absorbed into your body safely, leaving the affected breast visibly smaller in a matter of days. Silicone implants may not cause any discernable symptoms, which is why it’s important to have your implants checked every three years or so to check on their integrity. Leaking and rupturing are both common problems with breast implants, and they can often lead to other health complications.

6. Capsular contracture

Capsular contracture is a condition where the implant capsule contracts and squeezes the implant. This can cause the implant to become misshapen or even rupture. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with capsular contracture, it is important to see Dr. Golosow right away to remove or exchange the implants.

7. Breast skin shrinking and thinning

If you notice that your breast skin is thinning, this may signify that your implants need to be replaced. This is often a sign that the implant capsule has contracted and squeezes the implant.

8. Dimpling or puckering of the skin

If you notice that the skin on your breasts is dimpling or puckering, this may be a sign that your implants need to be replaced. It’s also something most people with implants don’t want to see or show off, so even if there’s nothing wrong with the implant, they may remove or replace them regardless.

Breast Implant Removal and Exchange in Fort Myers, FL

If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to call Dr. Golosow right away. Breast implants are not meant to last forever and often need to be replaced after a certain amount of time. If you are unsure whether or not your symptoms require your implants to be removed or replaced, it is best to play it safe and schedule a consultation with Dr. Lorraine Golosow. She will be able to advise you on the best course of action.