Breast implants are designed to be durable, but like any medical device, they should be monitored over time. Implant rupture screening plays an important role in long-term breast health, particularly for patients who have had implants for several years or are experiencing changes in breast appearance or feel.
At Watterson Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Watterson provides implant rupture screening and ultrasound evaluation for patients in Salt Lake City and Draper, offering experienced, attentive care rooted in decades of surgical expertise.
What Is Implant Rupture?
An implant rupture occurs when the outer shell of a breast implant tears or weakens. With saline implants, rupture is typically noticeable as the body absorbs the saline and the breast changes shape. Silicone implant ruptures, however, are often referred to as “silent ruptures” because they may not cause obvious symptoms. For this reason, routine screening and imaging are essential for patients with silicone implants, even when no discomfort or visible changes are present.
Why Ultrasound Is Used for Screening
Ultrasound imaging is a reliable, noninvasive method used to evaluate the condition of breast implants. It allows Dr. Watterson to assess the implant shell and surrounding tissue in real time. Ultrasound is often used as a first-line screening tool because it does not involve radiation, is well tolerated, and can provide valuable diagnostic information during a single office visit. In some cases, ultrasound findings may guide further evaluation or subsequent care.
Who Should Consider Implant Rupture Screening
Implant rupture screening may be recommended for patients who have had silicone breast implants for several years, as well as those noticing changes such as firmness, asymmetry, swelling, or discomfort. Patients who are planning implant revision or replacement may also benefit from preoperative imaging. Dr. Watterson carefully evaluates each patient’s history, implant type, and concerns to determine whether screening is appropriate and how often it should be performed.
What to Expect During an Ultrasound Evaluation
During an implant ultrasound, a handheld device is gently moved across the breast area to capture detailed images. The process is typically brief and performed in a comfortable clinical setting. Dr. Watterson reviews the photos with a trained eye, drawing on his extensive background in breast surgery to accurately interpret the findings. If an implant rupture or irregularity is identified, he discusses the results clearly and outlines appropriate options based on the patient’s goals and health considerations.
Personalized Guidance and Ongoing Care
Implant monitoring is not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Watterson takes a personalized approach, ensuring patients understand their results and feel supported in decision-making. Whether screening confirms implant integrity or reveals the need for further discussion, patients can expect thoughtful recommendations rooted in safety, experience, and respect for natural outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Watterson for Implant Evaluation?
Accurate implant rupture screening requires both advanced imaging and experienced interpretation. Dr. Watterson is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has decades of experience performing primary breast augmentation, implant revision, and complex breast procedures. His deep understanding of implant materials, placement techniques, and long-term outcomes allows him to provide informed, trustworthy guidance at every stage of evaluation.
Schedule an Implant Screening Consultation
If you have breast implants and are considering rupture screening or ultrasound evaluation in Draper, Utah, near Salt Lake City, contact Watterson Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation. Contact our team at 801-571-2020 to learn more about an implant rupture screening with Dr. Watterson.
