If you are like most women considering breast implant surgery, you are concerned about the possible risks to your health or appearance. No patient wants to experience a failed surgery or to receive unsatisfactory results. Some women we talk to are concerned about the possible side-effects from implant materials, especially over the long term.
These concerns are valid, and you should be 100% confident you are making the right decision before moving forward with your surgery.
Fortunately, studies indicate that up to 98% of women who undergo breast augmentation surgery are happy with their results and decision. The vast majority report significant gains in their self-esteem and even "quality of life." While any major surgery carries some risks, breast implants are generally much safer than patients may believe. Join us as we review potential risks of complications and other factors to consider about breast augmentation.
Are Breast Implants Dangerous or Risky?
Breast Implants are Biocompatible
Saline and silicone breast implants are biocompatible, which means they're designed from materials which can safely "live" inside the human body for long periods of time. Generally, the FDA, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and other reputable third-party experts consider breast implants safe for healthy patients.
Some patients may pursue extreme cost-cutting options by exploring alternatives to breast implants. Patients should take care to avoid any 'alternatives' to silicone or saline implants. Many so-called alternatives have not been subject to the same third-party, long-term testing.
Make sure whatever treatment you choose is offered by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Never make a decision based solely on the cheapest cost.
Breast Implants Do Not Impair Breast or Reproductive Health
Breast implants have been under scrutiny for many years. Many individuals believed that implants could have a negative impact on breast health, including increased risk of certain types of cancer. After proper medical study evaluation and meticulous research, the FDA has approved both silicone gel and saline breast implants as safe for cosmetic surgery use.
At this time, there is no significant medical evidence to indicate that breast implants can negatively impact the health of surrounding tissues. You should not need to fear any of the following issues:
- Connective tissue issues
- Autoimmune disease
- Breast cancer
-
Reproductive health issues
Breast Implants are Intended to Last a Lifetime
Breast implants are designed for long-term biocompatibility with the human system. They are not intended to "degrade," shift, or change in appearance after a certain length of time. With that said, a number of factors, including patient lifestyle, can affect the longevity of silicone or saline breast implants.
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it's important to understand that you may need additional operations in the future to replace one or both implants.
Breast Implants Don't Need Replacement
There is a pervasive myth that breast implants carry a ten-year shelf life. Many patients mistakenly believe that undergoing breast augmentation surgery guarantees another operation on a five or ten-year basis.
This isn't true, and has not been supported by medical studies or any other significant research.
Implant replacement is only necessary if a patient experiences a problem with their implants, which is relatively rare. Breast implants are designed to be highly durable and withstand pressures from every day activity and vigorous exercise. Breast implants can typically remain intact even if hundreds of pounds of pressure is applied directly.
Should a patient experience a relatively rare issue, like rupture, malpositioning, or a capsular contracture, follow-up visits to discuss replacement will be necessary. For the vast majority of breast augmentation patients, there is no shelf life on their implants.
Repeat Operations are Relatively Rare
Many prospective breast augmentation patients overestimate the probability that they'll need repeat operations in the future. However, the vast majority of patients are satisfied with outcomes and do not need follow-up surgeries to correct cosmetic issues, meet patient preferences, or manage risks.
A major study performed by Sientra, Mentor, and Allergan followed a group of women for eight years following their initial breast augmentation surgery. This study found that the total rate of repeat operations during this eight year period was just 20%. It's important to note that this figure encompasses both patients who had necessary and elective repeat surgeries, including patients who opted to increase or reduce the size of their implants.
Surgical and Breast Implant Risks
Any surgical procedure carries a degree of risk. Patients can proactively manage these risks by choosing a reputable plastic surgeon with extensive experience. Healthy patients have a much lower risk of complication than patients with pre-existing health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, or diabetes.
Some of the potential risks of any cosmetic or non-cosmetic surgery include:
- Hematoma or Seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
- Infection
- Scarring
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Delayed healing
- Tissue loss
- Altered sensation
- Damage to underlying structures
- Allergic reactions
- Unsatisfactory results that may require additional procedures
Virtually every procedure carries unique risks. Patients who undergo breast augmentation have a minor risk of experiencing one of the following issues, which are most typically associated with breast surgery:
- Changes in nipple and/or breast sensation
- Incorrect final position of the implant
- Implant leaks or rupture
- Capsular contracture, or the formation of tight scar tissue around the implant
- Rippling or wrinkling of the skin over the implant
- Pain, including persistent pain
- Mammography shadows
A qualified plastic surgeon will be able to provide insight into your individual risk of experiencing one or more of these adverse effects. Prior to giving final consent for an operation, your surgeon will discuss each of these factors in-depth.
Responding to Changes in Your Body
Major hormonal changes, shifts in weight, or other natural life events can drastically change the appearance of your body, including augmented breasts. Patients who experience pregnancy, significant changes in weight, natural aging processes, or menopause may report changes in the appearance of their implants.
If you are considering breast implants, understand that their appearance can change, especially when your body experiences significant change. In this event, your breasts may require surgical revision.
You Need to Monitor Your Breast Health
Any patient should work closely with their primary care provider to ensure their breasts remain healthy, regardless of whether they pursue implant surgery or not. Work with your physician to develop a schedule for periodic, regular examination of your breast tissue and implants after surgery.
Your physician will most likely recommend specific mammogram technology for routine cancer screenings. Depending on your physician and your breast health, you may be advised to pursue other means of routine screening for breast cancer.
Many prospective breast implant patients are relieved to learn that risks associated with this surgery are relatively low. Maintaining healthy breast tissue is important for women with augmented and natural breasts alike.
Healthy, Beautiful Breasts for a Lifetime
Ultimately, the best way for patients to minimize risks is by selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with a positive reputation in their community. A reputable surgeon can evaluate your candidacy, discuss your risks, and suggest the right treatment plan to meet your goals.
To learn more about minimizing the risks associated with breast implants or any other cosmetic procedure, check out our free eBook: 11 Things You Need to Know About Plastic Surgery.
