Saline Implant Deflation

When patients have deflated saline implants the results can be very dramatic. These implants flatten rapidly and patients suddenly find themselves with significant breast asymmetry. This can create anxiety and because of this, patients are eager to have the problem corrected as soon as possible. For this reason, we don’t see a lot of women with deflated implants for prolonged periods of time.

Surgeons are also eager to correct the problem as soon as possible. They realize that with time, the implant pocket starts to shrink. This may be accompanied by creases and folds in the deflated implant, which can cause erosions through the skin.

With the passage of time, revisional surgery becomes more difficult with a greater potential for complications. When implants are replaced early, all that is necessary is a simple exchange of the old, deflated implant for a new one. When the empty implant is left in place for a prolonged period, the implant pocket may need to be re-created because of shrinkage.

Although we recommend removal and replacement of a deflated implant at the earliest possible date, we realize this isn’t always possible. In theory, empty saline implants can be left in a place indefinitely. If this situation arises, it’s important to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon as soon as possible.