Every surgical procedure comes with some risks. As you’re considering breast augmentation, you will want to acquaint yourself with the complications or side-effects that could occur, so you can make a well-informed decision. But you should also know that serious complications from breast augmentation are not common.
Let’s review some risks you should be aware of before making the serious decision to undergo any surgery, but specifically breast augmentation.
Risks Associated with Any Surgery
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Infection
Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation
- Changes in breast or nipple sensation
- Persistent pain
- Fluid accumulation
- Visible scarring
Aesthetic Concerns
If you choose breast implants, there are possible complications that would affect your breasts’ appearance, either soon after surgery or later on. These include:
- Distorted shape due to capsular contracture (scar tissue that forms around the implant)
- Rotated or out of position implants
- Rippling of the breast surface·
- Asymmetrical breast size, shape, or level
Silicone gel implants are generally less prone to wrinkling, rotation or scar tissue adherence than saline implants. Saline implants have a more firm feel, but feel less like your natural breast tissue.
As for symmetry it’s important to understand that no two breasts are perfectly symmetrical. Skilled surgeons use implant size as well as a number of other techniques to make asymmetrical breasts appear closer in symmetry. As we always say, your breasts are sisters, not twins!
Implant Rupture
While rare, it is possible for implants to rupture. If this happens, silicone implants will leak tiny amounts of silicone that can cause an asymmetry in the implant. However, with today’s silicone technology, even with a rupture, the silicone will stay within the implant shell. If a saline implant leaks, the salt-water solution is naturally absorbed by the body and will show a deflated breast.
We have helped numerous patients who have sought us out specifically to assist with the correction of an implant rupture.
You Can Reduce Your Risks
Even though most of the risks we’ve been discussing are rare already, there are some ways that you can ensure they are even more unlikely to occur in your situation.
Choose Your Surgeon Carefully
Choosing your surgeon is the most important decision you will make, other than deciding to have breast augmentation. The best way to minimize risks and achieve the results you want is to pick a surgeon who is highly qualified in training and experience – someone who has artistic skill as well, because you’re looking for visual pleasing results.
Dr. Brady Harris is triple board certified, and specializes in breast augmentation. He is very personable and easy to talk to, so you can be comfortable honestly discussing your concerns and desired results. And to learn more about the procedures, you can watch some down-to-earth conversations about breast augmentation with our Backstage Pass.
Follow Doctor’s Orders
Adhering to at-home, post-surgery care instructions carefully and completely will help you recover faster and more comfortably, and it will help minimize post-procedure risks or side effects such as infection.
Keep in mind that implants are designed to last about 10 years - not forever. At some point in the future you may be looking at removal and replacement surgery. Also, significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and menopause can affect the appearance of implants as well.
Realistic Expectations are Key
There is a chance you may be unhappy with your results from a purely aesthetic standpoint. They just don’t look as you had hoped. This disappointment is preventable! It’s why we so strongly encourage prospective patients to research plenty of before and after photos.
Looking at real women with similar pre-procedure concerns is a great way to learn what breast augmentation might (or might not) do for you. Even more important – be sure to check out results from the surgeon you’re considering using.
Talk to the Doc
The list of potential risks may seem long, but don’t let it dissuade you from scheduling a personal consultation. As noted earlier, the vast majority of patients experience no serious complications. On the plus side, 95% of breast augmentation patients on RealSelf say their surgery was worth it! A one-on-one consultation will provide answers to all of your questions, soothe your concerns, and allow you to decide with confidence whether breast augmentation is right for you.
Let’s book your consultation today!