What are the risks associated with Breast Augmentation?
Like all surgical procedures, with breast augmentation surgery there is always a possibility of complications. Although these complications are extremely rare, they can include:
- Infection.
- Adverse reaction to anaesthesia.
- Excessive bleeding.
- Loss of nipple sensation.
- Unsatisfactory results.
- Implant rupture or shifting.
- Haematoma.
- Asymmetry.
- Capsular contracture (internal scar tissue).
- Visible implant rippling.
- The need for second or sometimes third procedures.
Tell me more about risks and complications
Although risks and complications are more likely in patients with a compromised immune system, bleeding disorders or conditions that interfere with wound healing, the patient should be aware of them. The risks that are common to all type of surgeries are listed below:
Infection - If this occurs, the implant might need to be removed temporarily (for about six weeks). In this case the patient can experience pain or redness following the surgery, and if this is the case the surgeon should be notified immediately. However, sometimes prior to and after the operation, the patient is given antibiotics in order to prevent this complication.
Bleeding and Haematoma Formation - Some patients can lose blood after a breast augmentation and the drains may not drain all of the blood. The blood can accumulate in the pocket created for the implant. As a consequence, the breast may swell and become increasingly painful.
If this occurs the patient has to undergo another operation in order to have the haematoma removed and the bleeding stopped.
apsular Contracture - This is a result of tightening of the scar tissue surrounding the breast implant. Even if its occurrence is not predictable, incidents of symptomatic capsular contracture can increase over time. If this becomes painful or causes a mis-shape in appearance of the breast, additional surgery to release the scar may be needed. The surgeon may suggest taking certain anti-inflammatory medicines that can soften the tightness. Massage and movement of the implants, along with the use of compression straps may also help in these cases.
Altered Nipple Sensation - Some patients may experience loss of nipple sensitivity. On the other hand, a small minority of patients may develop nipple hypersensitivity.
Is there a link between breast augmentation and breast cancer?
Firmness and Discomfort - These problems usually result from asymmetrical or excessive contracture of the scar or capsule which forms around the implant itself. The scar capsule forms as a normal response to the implantation of foreign material. The shape of the breast can be distorted by excessive contracture.
The breast firmness can also be caused by calcium deposits that may form in the scar tissue. They are usually detected by mammography and may need to be evacuated surgically.
Asymmetry - Since all paired organs are generally uneven, it is likely to stay that way after the surgery as well. If the unevenness is noticeable enough and may be annoying for the patient, a new operation is possible.
Over the last few decades, there has been a lot of media attention on the risks of implants themselves: however, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that breast implants contribute to breast cancer.
Is there a link between breast augmentation and immune system disorders?
After breast augmentation, some women have reported having symptoms such as:
- Joint pain swelling.
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Breast pain.
However, no scientific evidence exists to prove immune system disorders are directly related to breast augmentation.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about breast augmentation surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.