The Risks of Breast Implants

A woman may consider having her breasts enlarged for a few different reasons. Maybe she is getting older and her breasts are not the same in shape and firmness as before. Maybe she feels they are too small and would feel more feminine or look sexier with larger breasts or maybe she is just not happy with her breasts and wants to feel better about herself. Some women have a noticeable size difference in the two breasts and may want to simply correct it. For some it can be quite a self-esteem boost. Whatever the reason, it is not a decision to be made lightly. A woman should carefully consider the benefits and risks equally. She should consult with at least one qualified professional in the cosmetic surgery field and know exactly what will happen before, during and after the breast augmentation. She must have realistic expectations and remember that no body is perfect. Of course she will need to have the proper finances to assure a professional and safe procedure by an experienced and board certified surgeon. The FDA has approved silicone gel breast implants and saline breast implants but state that they are not necessarily safe for everyone. There can be complications or problems in certain cases which is why it is so important to have all information and think the decision though. As with any surgery there is a chance of infection in which case the implant might have to be removed.

There are, in fact some common complications that most patients experience at least one of. There will be breast pain, of course but there could also be hardness in the breast or numbness of the nipple. In most cases, if performed correctly, breast implants are fairly safe with today's technology. There is the risk of serious problems. Rarely the implants can break through the skin or dye the skin in the breast area. Also rarely, patients have developed Toxic Shock Syndrome which is potentially deadly. Studies show that breast augmentations are very rarely fatal. Some have even developed gangrene from the surgery. While these complications are unlikely, a woman should be aware that they are a possibility. Some women with implants will need an additional surgery within 5 years and most women within 10-12 years. Implants interfere with breastfeeding and it is not known whether a leak in the implant would harm the infant.

Breast Implants are known to interfere with mammogram readings. There are also cosmetic problems with some implants such as taking on a rippling or crumpled look. Rippling can occur with the filling of the implant shifts. If the implant structure is not sound it may also rupture. On occasion a woman's natural body response will for scar tissue around the implant. This can cause expansion and can result in an additional surgical procedure. These are a few complications that may or may not occur. The most important thing is to be knowledgeable, research and consider the risks carefully.
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