Recognising and Preventing Breast Implant Complications
One of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the world is a breast augmentation. Getting breast implants is a very personal choice and it’s crucial to research all risks and potential complications. Booking a consultation with your chosen surgeon is the best way to get all information you need on this procedure. All surgery comes with risk, including breast augmentation. The most common complications are capsular contracture, implant mal-position and breast implant rupture. Although breast implant illness is also a known complication, it is more rare.
Some signs of complications include:
- Breast pain
- Changes in nipple sensation or lack there of
- Asymmetry of the breasts
- Mal-position or displacement that is visible (the implant has moved out of its’ intended position)
- Ptosis (sagging of the breasts)
Let’s take a look at these complications in more detail:
Capsular contracture
Capsular contracture is a hardening around the implant, this is when the tissue surrounding the implant tightens and thickens making the implant visible, and too firm. Although it is a normal healing reaction from the body, it can be painful. In some cases if the capsular contracture is severe, the implant may have to be removed and replaced. The likelihood of this happening is approximately 5 in 100, around 5% of women with implants may need re-operation due to capsular contracture. Newer implants that are available today have reduced the likely hood of this issue, especially textured implants.
Implant malposition
Misalignment or displacement of breast implants in the breast pocket is another complication to be aware of. This displacement can cause pain, visible asymmetry and distortion of the breast shape. Poor surgical technique, implant size and irregular healing can cause this issue. It is vital to research your surgeon thoroughly to ensure poor surgical technique and incorrect implant placement does not cause this complication. Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery Gold Coast can take you through Dr Hertess’s qualifications and experience so that you can make an informed decision on your breast augmentation.
Breast Implant Rupture
Breast implant rupture is one of the most common risks of breast augmentation. Saline and silicone breast implants have an outer silicone shell that can sometimes develop a tear or hole, this is called a rupture. Saline implants can also be at risk of this due to a valve in the implant that can fail. The age of your implants can effect the likely hood of breast implant rapture, the older they are the higher the risk. Implants can also rupture due to trauma, physical accidents and even mammograms. Saline implants will leak quickly, over a few days where as silicone implants will leak at a slower pace. In cases of rupture, the implant will need to be removed and then replaced in time at Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery Gold Coast.
How do I book an initial consultation with Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery Gold Coast?
You can book a consultation with a team member in our clinic by calling (07) 5601 0492 or by clicking here.
Know your surgeon - Dr Hertess's qualifications:
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- Member of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Dr Hertess (MED0001372020) Registered Medical Practitioner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Specialist Registration in Surgery - Plastic Surgery).
