Sports physicians are urged to be on alert for possible breast implant rupture, particularly in athletes involved in contact sports, such as footy and rugby. 

New research, published in Sport Medicine Australia’s Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, advised that breast implant rupture can lead to a range of serious complications.

The study, titled Navigating challenges of breast implant rupture in a rugby player: Challenges and risk assessment, found that silicone leakage can trigger local and systemic inflammatory reactions and mask the presence of cancer cells.

This inflammation, known as granulomatous inflammatory reactions, can harm the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

Once outside the implant shell, silicone may cause fibrosis, foreign body reactions, pain, and lymphadenopathy. In severe cases, it has been linked to adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and autoimmune diseases, the researchers noted.

No studies have specifically measured its incidence in athletes, the study found. 

“In the general population, research estimates a 12.2 per cent rupture rate over an eight-year period. 

“Since many ruptures are asymptomatic, the actual incidence may be higher than reported,” according to the research.

Breast implant rupture can be “clinically obvious” or “silent”, requiring imaging for detection. The study said.

“Saline implants deflate rapidly upon rupture, leading to noticeable cosmetic deformity. 

“Patients typically seek medical attention quickly. The leaked saline is harmless and easily absorbed by the body.

“Silicone gel implants, on the other hand, rupture more silently due to the slow leakage of viscous gel. Many individuals experience no immediate symptoms such as pain, swelling, or breast shape changes, leading to delayed diagnosis.”

Researchers warned that there are no standardised criteria for diagnosing breast implant rupture. 

“Even experienced plastic surgeons have only a 30% sensitivity in detecting rupture through physical examination alone, highlighting the importance of imaging for accurate diagnosis,” the research found.

The research was particularly concerned for athletes with ruptured silicone implants. “A potential long-term risk is that silicone can dilute cellular elements in lymph nodes, potentially masking cancer cells. 

“This underscores the need for sports physicians to promptly diagnose and monitor implant-related complications and incorporate them into return-to-play assessments for athletes with breast implants,” the researchers said.

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About JSAMS

The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (JSAMS) is published by Sports Medicine Australia.

The journal provides high-quality, original research papers to keep Sports Medicine Australia members and subscribers informed of developments in the areas of sports exercise and medicine, sports injury, physical activity, and sports exercise and science.