How Tough Are Breast Implants? We Ran One Over to Find Out.
One of the most common concerns patients bring up during a breast augmentation consultation is:
“Can my implant rupture from pressure—like during a mammogram?”
It’s a valid question. After all, mammograms apply noticeable compression, and you want to feel confident that your implants can withstand normal life (and diagnostics) without risk.
To show just how durable modern breast implants really are, I took a hands-on approach:
I ran one over with my car.
Putting It to the Test: Silicone Implant vs. Tire
In this demonstration, I used a silicone gel–filled implant—often referred to as a “gummy bear” implant. These are one of the most commonly used breast implants today and known for their cohesive, form-stable gel interior.
After driving over the implant, here’s what we observed:
- No rupture
- No leakage
- No silicone gel oozing out
- You could still see the tire tracks, but the implant was fully intact .
Even after squeezing and manipulating the implant post-drive, the shell remained sealed and structurally sound.
What This Means for You
So, does a mammogram put your breast implant at risk?
Highly unlikely.
While mammograms do apply compression, implants, especially modern cohesive gel types, are engineered to withstand far more force than a diagnostic screening or routine pressure from everyday life.
Of course, no implant is indestructible. Ruptures can happen from trauma or over time, but it’s important to understand:
Your implant is built to be tough.
It can handle compression, movement, exercise, and yes, even a mammogram.
Takeaway
If you’re worried about breast implant safety during routine screenings or activities, rest assured:
These implants are far more resilient than they look.
And while you don’t need to run one over with your car to believe it, we did it for you, just to prove the point.
Have more questions about implant types, durability, or what to expect long term? I’d love to help guide you through your decision with facts and clarity.
Victoria Aimé, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Metropolitan Plastic Surgery | Scottsdale, Arizona
Related Articles:
What to Do If Your Saline Breast Implant Ruptures? →
Do You Really Need to Replace Your Breast Implants Every 10 Years? →
Can I Downsize My Breast Implants? Here’s What You Need to Know →
Our surgical and non-surgical treatment options
Ready to start your transformation?
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or have specific goals in mind, we’re here to guide you with expertise and compassion.
Read more articles
Why the Breast Crease Sometimes Needs to Be Lowered During Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation planning involves more than choosing an implant size. Learn why a high or tight breast crease may need to be carefully lowered, how the new crease can be reinforced, and how this helps the implant sit in a more balanced position.
Breast Lift With Implants: Why I Staple Before I Cut
How do I decide exactly how much skin to remove during a breast lift with implants? I use a technique called tailor tacking to temporarily staple the breast skin into its planned position before removing the excess. This allows me to preview the new breast shape, evaluate nipple position, symmetry, and tension, and make adjustments before committing to the final skin removal and closure.
Does Breast Implant Size Affect Price? What Actually Determines Cost
Breast implant size (ccs) and profile generally do not affect the cost of breast augmentation. Scottsdale plastic surgeon Dr. Victoria Aimé explains what actually determines implant pricing, including implant manufacturer, saline versus silicone, gel cohesivity, and fill level.
Motiva Preservé Breast Augmentation: What Patients Should Know Before Choosing This “New” Technique
Motiva Preservé breast augmentation is being marketed as a minimally invasive, tissue-preserving technique with faster recovery and better outcomes. While it introduces some thoughtful concepts—like preserving natural breast anatomy—it also comes with important limitations, including blind pocket dissection, restricted implant options, and limited long-term data. This article provides an honest, evidence-based breakdown to help patients understand whether this approach is truly beneficial or simply well-marketed.