Improvement in surgical techniques as well as advanced implant qualities have made breast augmentation cosmetic surgery a less invasive and less painful procedure over the years. Although the risks in breast implant surgery are now dramatically reduced, but some risks are still associated with breast augmentation as with any other surgery.
At the time of pre-op consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient about the potential risks and complications associated with breast augmentation. The surgeon’s first concern will be to help the patient make a well-considered decision. Board certified plastic surgeon Roger Tsai, MD provides breast augmentation and other cosmetic procedures to patients in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA and surrounding locations.
Implant-related Risks
Some of the risks and complications in breast augmentation are present because of the involvement of silicone or saline breast implants.
Capsular Contracture
As the implants are surgically placed in the breast tissue, it will initiate the natural healing mechanism in the body. This will cause the formation of scar tissue around the implants. However, in some cases, this scar tissue may tend to contract or become hard, putting excessive pressure on the implants.
The implants may get squeezed due to the tightening of the scar tissue, causing them to lose their shape, shift from their position, or become damaged. Some patients may feel pain as the breast capsule becomes harder. In such cases, the breast surgeon may suggest breast implant revision plastic surgery.
Implant Rippling
In some cases, the size of the breast implant may be disproportionately large compared to the amount of breast skin available to cover the implant well. This can lead to wrinkles or folds in the implant. A rippling effect may occur on the skin surface, distorting the natural breast appearance.
An experienced surgeon will recommend the most appropriate implant size and shape with an aim to minimize the risk of implant rippling. Dedicated cosmetic surgeon Dr. Tsai receives patients from West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
Implant Shifting or Rupture
In rare cases, the implant may move from its original position soon after the surgery has been performed. This risk of displacement increases in case of bigger implants. The risk of implant rupture will exist in all types of implants.
If the rupture occurs in a saline implant, the implant will immediately deflate and the patient will notice it. But in case of silicone implants, the rupture may only get noticed during a breast MRI. The surgeon will have to perform implant removal or implant replacement surgery to address these conditions.
Surgery-related Risks
Infection
Infection risks are higher during and immediately after the implant procedure. The surgical facility should maintain sterile conditions, and the patient should keep the incision areas clean and dry to minimize this risk.
Numbness in Nipples
Change of sensation, sensitivity or numbness in the nipple area may occur after breast augmentation. The condition generally resolves on its own, but may become permanent in rare cases.
Unfavorable Scarring
Some amount of scarring is unavoidable in breast augmentation, but the impact can be minimized by placing the incisions in discreet locations.
For more information on cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and treatments by Beverly Hills board certified plastic surgeon, Roger Tsai, MD please click here or call us at 310.276.1190. Taking patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and other surrounding cities.