Practical Method for the Removal of Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants are widely used in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast operations worldwide. Although there are numerous devices designed to assist with the placement of implants, there are limited tools available for their removal. The challenge is amplified when complications such as implant rupture occur, increasing the risk of silicone contamination in surrounding tissues. Historically, improvised solutions-such as repurposed syringes and saline bottles on suction tubing-have been used to assist with implant explantation. However, these makeshift tools were often too small to accommodate the full volume of the implant. Furthermore, recent updates to Australian hospital sterilization standards have imposed additional restrictions on the autoclaving of such improvised devices, underscoring the need for a cost-effective, compliant alternative. Despite new commercially available devices becoming available on the market, they may be inaccessible due to budget limitations, low stock, or unavailability in certain countries. This article describes a customizable extraction technique using a readily available, low-cost, autoclavable device for the sterile removal of ruptured silicone implants. The device features a large diameter opening, which allows for the easy extraction of both ruptured and intact implants. With a collection capacity of up to 1 L, it meets the necessary volume requirements for most procedures. Additionally, it can be assembled in under 3 minutes using standard equipment found in operating rooms and adheres to updated sterilization protocols.