Breast Augmentation Risks

Breast augmentation has consistently been the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure throughout the last decade. A breast augmentation procedure can increase women’s confidence and self image. However, there are certain risks involved with the procedure. Although breast augmentation is an elective procedure, it is still surgery that has some of the same risks as a medically necessary surgery. Patients should be well informed of these risks before deciding to undergo surgery. Below are some of the more common risks that breast augmentation patients may encounter during the healing process.

Excessive Bleeding

This is one of the more common risks of surgical procedures. Excessive bleeding can occur either during or after surgery, and may lead to poor wound healing, longer healing times, and excessive scarring.

Fortunately, there are some simple ways to reduce this risk. Patients should refrain from regular alcohol use beginning approximately two to three weeks prior to surgery, as alcohol is a known blood thinner. Furthermore, if patients are taking any blood thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin), they should consult their regular doctor to determine if use of the medication can be halted.

Excessive Scarring

Another common risk is excessive scarring. Any surgery will leave some type of scar where incisions are made into the skin. Excessive scarring may be particularly worrisome for breast augmentation patients, as they will be eager to show off their enhanced figure to friends and family.

As with excessive bleeding, there are some simple things patients can do ahead of time to reduce their risk for excessive scarring. Patients should refrain from tobacco use starting two to three weeks prior to surgery. The smoke will dry out the skin, increasing the chance of poor incision healing and excessive scarring. The staff at Jefferson Plastic Surgery strongly urges patients to consider quitting smoking altogether.

Implant Rupture

Implant ruptures are less common than excessive bleeding or scarring, but still may carry some risk, depending upon the material used for the implants. If a saline (sterile saltwater) implant ruptures, the fluid will harmlessly be absorbed back into the body. Furthermore, the breast will rapidly return to its pre-implant size and shape. Unfortunately, if silicone implants rupture, the gel will not be absorbed back into the body. Such ruptures are almost always “silent” - the patient may not know that the implant has ruptured unless they go in for an MRI.

Capsular Contracture

The surgeon will create a pocket within the tissue and muscle in which the implant will be placed. A certain amount of scarring is to be expected around this pocket. However, if there is excessive scar tissue buildup, it may put pressure upon the pocket and distort the shape of the implants. Patients may notice this if the breasts feel tight and constricted, or if the implants noticeably shift out of their natural position. In these cases, patients must almost invariably undergo a second surgical procedure to loosen up or remove the excess scar tissue.

The surgeons at Jefferson Plastic Surgery Center are skilled in performing breast augmentation surgery, and risks are rare among our patients. Cooperation from patients will lower these risks even further. Contact our practice today to schedule your consultation.