What can go wrong with breast implants surgery?

Breast implant surgery is very safe but like all surgery, things can go wrong. There are risks which are common to all forms of surgery and ones which are specific to a particular type of procedure. These are:

• Capsular contracture: the name given to the body’s natural process in which it forms a protective layer of scar tissue or ‘capsule’ around the implant. The problem is when this capsule tightens over time which can squeeze and harden the implant.
• Siliconomas: this is a condition in which silicone can spread outside of the implant and capsule, and into the breast area. This can cause small lumps called ‘siliconomas’ to develop. These lumps can be tender to the touch. The silicone can spread into the muscles under the armpit, under the arm or around the nerves to the arm.
  If they cause pain then they may need to be removed.
• Leakage: there is a small risk of leakage from the
non-cohesive silicone implant as it contains a liquid type of filler.
• Implant rippling: this is particular prevalent with saline implants and non-cohesive silicone implants. It is where the liquid inside the implant moves around. This causes the breast skin to wrinkle, known as ‘rippling’.
  It tends to be a problem with those implants that are inadequately filled and positioned over the chest muscle.
• Implant migration: this is where the implant runs the risk of moving out of position. It can happen to both the saline and silicone implants. It is pretty rare but can happen. The larger the implant the greater the risk of displacement.
• Implant deflation: if the implant has tiny rips in the surface then fluid can leak out. As this fluid leaks it causes the implant to deflate in size. This is more of a problem with saline implants. If this happens then the implant can ‘fold over’ itself. Deflation can happen quickly over a period of a few days.
• Implant extrusion: this is extremely rare. It is when the stitched incision breaks open which means you can see the implants. The implants will have to be removed and replaced 6 to 12 months later.
• Implant rotation: the ‘tear drop’ or anatomical implant has to be inserted into the right sized pocket and so ensure a snug fit. If there is any excess space the surgeon may use a drain to remove this space. These implants can engender a more natural looking appearance although this is spoilt if they rotate in their position.
• Reduced or loss of nipple sensation: this can happenafter breast augmentation surgery.After the implants are inserted the nipples can lose sensation which can be permanent.
  This is something that will be mentioned to you at your initial discussion with your surgeon.

Breast Implants Surgery Guide Index:

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• What are breast implants?
• Is there more than one type of breast implants?
• Are breast implants safe?
• How long do breast implants last?

• What can go wrong with breast implants?
• What is breast implant removal surgery?
• What is breast implant replacement surgery?

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