Saline implant deflation means your breast implant has lost saline (a sterile saltwater solution), causing visible shrinkage and softness.

The good news is that the body harmlessly absorbs the saline, so there’s typically no danger to your health. Sudden breast asymmetry can be unsettling however. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I understand that a sudden deflation can be anxiety provoking for my patients.

The good thing about saline implants is that issues are straightforward to diagnose and fix, giving you peace of mind and clear next steps.

Why Do Saline Implants Deflate?

The hallmark sign of saline implant deflation is a noticeable reduction in breast size, often happening overnight or, occasionally, a gradual softening with a subtle “sloshing” sensation.

But why does this happen? Common causes include:

  • Valve leaks: Small tears near the implant’s valve mechanism.
  • Shell fold failure: Repeated bending creates tiny creases, eventually leading to a leak—much like repeated folding weakening a bicycle tire.
  • Blunt trauma or accidental needle puncture: Less common but possible through injury or medical procedures.

Fortunately, modern saline implants have improved durability, with recent studies showing deflation rates as low as 0.9% within three years, and around 4% after sixteen years.

Is Saline Implant Deflation Dangerous?

The reassuring news is that saline itself is harmless; your body quickly and safely absorbs it. However, if left unaddressed, a deflated implant can lead to cosmetic or structural issues such as:

  • Capsular contracture: Scar tissue around the empty implant might tighten.
  • Emotional distress: Sudden asymmetry can significantly impact confidence.

Prompt attention prevents these issues. You should call your plastic surgeon right away if you notice:

  • Sudden severe breast pain
  • Skin redness or warmth
  • Deflation following trauma or injury

Here at Reddy Plastic Surgery, safety and comfort are always top priorities—we’ll ensure you get back to feeling balanced as smoothly as possible.

How to Confirm a Saline Implant Deflation

In most cases, saline implant deflation is easy to spot through a simple physical exam. However, if the symptoms aren’t completely clear, in-office ultrasound imaging provides quick confirmation, and in rare instances, an MRI or CT scan may be used.

Bring your implant identification card and any warranty documents to your appointment if you have them—these can simplify warranty claims and implant replacement decisions.

If a patient with previously placed saline implants is considering implant removal versus implant replacement, I often use in the clinic is an in-office saline deflation.  This allows accurate measurement of the original implant size and helps patient better visualize their breasts without breast implants. This helps us plan your revision precisely to restore symmetry and comfort.

Treatment Options for Saline Implant Deflation

Once your saline implant deflation is confirmed, timely replacement is important to maintain breast shape, symmetry, and confidence.

Here’s what you need to know about your revision options:

Implant Exchange

Replacing a deflated saline implant can typically be performed in a single outpatient procedure. Here’s what happens:

  1. Removal and inspection: The old implant shell is removed, and the implant pocket is carefully examined and irrigated to ensure cleanliness.
  2. Choosing your new implant: You can opt for another saline implant—often slightly overfilled (about 10%) to reduce future deflation risk—or switch to a silicone gel implant for a softer, light, and more natural feel.
  3. Warranty coverage: Manufacturer warranties often provide lifetime implant replacement and may assist financially with revision surgery within certain time frames. We’ll help you navigate these details clearly.

Combination Procedures

Depending on your personal goals and the condition of your skin and breast tissue, combining procedures during your implant exchange can further enhance your results:

  • Breast lift: If your skin has loosened significantly, combining your implant exchange with a lift can restore youthful contour and firmness.
  • Fat grafting: Adding fat grafting refines the breast’s natural contours, especially helpful for patients seeking subtle, personalized adjustments.

These combined procedures typically involve a slightly longer recovery period, but most patients find the improved aesthetic results worth the additional time.

What to Expect After Implant Revision Surgery

Recovery from implant revision surgery is usually straightforward, allowing you to get back to your regular life quickly with proper care. Here’s a realistic timeline:

  1. Week 1: Rest, gentle movement, and minimal activity. Most patients comfortably resume desk jobs within a week.
  2. Weeks 2 to 4: Gradual return to more normal activities, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercises.
  3. Weeks 4 to 6: Full clearance for exercise and more intense physical activity is typically granted.

We’ll guide you through effective pain management and scar care techniques to optimize your healing and comfort. Routine follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor your recovery closely and ensure the best possible outcome.

Protecting Your Results for the Long Run

After revision surgery, maintaining your beautiful, balanced results becomes a top priority. Here are practical tips for long-term care:

  • Warranty and records: Keep your implant card and warranty details safe. This documentation simplifies any future care or warranty claims.
  • Regular check-ups: Annual evaluations with a board-certified plastic surgeon help catch and address potential issues early, providing lasting peace of mind.

Together, these strategies help ensure your confidence lasts just as long as your results.

As a plastic surgeon deeply dedicated to helping my patients rediscover their best selves, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation at our Richmond office if you need care and guidance for your implant revision.