complications from breast surgery

“Is there a risk of any complications from this procedure?” This is a question I hear consistently from patients during cosmetic surgery consultations. The answer is always, “yes.” Although certain procedures like breast augmentation may only be associated with a minimal risk of complications, the risk still exists, as it does with any surgical procedure. To help prepare my patients for the unlikely (but possible) event of experiencing a complication from their breast implants, here are a few of the most common breast complications to look out for: However it should be said from the outset that the possible complications- however rare- can usually be successfully treated if they occur. 

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is the most common complication associated with breast augmentation. It occurs when scar tissue forms around a breast implant. This is a natural reaction from the body whenever a foreign element (like a breast implant) is placed into the body. Unfortunately, this new scar tissue can contract and tighten around the implants, causing the implant to become hard and the shape to become distorted. In addition to affecting the appearance of the breast, capsular contracture can cause intense pain and discomfort in the affected breast(s).

Implant Rippling

Breast implant rippling occurs when noticeable ripples appear on the surface of a breast implant. It can be caused by the tissue overlying the implant beginning to stick to the implant. In some cases, insufficient tissue coverage or incorrectly filled implants (either overfilled or under filled) can also lead to breast implant rippling.

Bottoming Out

What does it mean for a breast implant to “bottom out”? In short, bottoming out means a breast implant has begun to descend toward the lower pole of the breast, increasing the distance between the nipple and inframammary crease. The result is a flat-looking upper pole and a nipple that appears too high on the breast. Patients with poor skin elasticity may be at a greater risk of experiencing this.

It’s important to remember that although these are the most common complications associated with breast augmentation, they are all still very rare. To learn more about potential complications and what you can expect after breast augmentation, check out the video below:

The best way to minimize your risk after cosmetic breast surgery is to have an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon perform your procedure. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s pre and post-surgery instructions closely. I also advise making time for follow-up appointments and occasional check-ups with your surgeon to ensure that everything is as it should be with your new breasts as the years go on. For more information or to schedule your plastic surgery consultation today, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for even more videos, tips, and cosmetic surgery news.