Breast Augmentation Complications

In all breast augmentation procedure, there always the risk of breast augmentation complications where there is breast necrosis, or the death of cell tissue. This risk depends on where the breast augmentation incision was made as well as if smooth vs textured implants were used.

The first risk to consider is that of an allergic reaction to the anesthesia. General anesthesia is considered more risky, but you can have a bad reaction to any anesthesia. Another risk is excessive bleeding either during or after surgery. It may lead to a need to undergo further surgery to drain the blood, and you may develop clots or other problems.

Breast Necrosis

Tissue death, known as necrosis, can happen to breast tissue, or other nearby tissues after breast augmentation. This is extremely rare but more likely if you smoke, have poor circulation, or a bleeding disorder. Another rare complication is the extrusion of the breast implant, wherein your body basically pushes it out. The implant may become visible under the skin, and must be surgically removed before it breaks through the skin. This can result in infection and scarring.

You may also lose sensitivity in your nipples, but this is usually temporary. Calcification are more likely if you have a thick capsule around the implant. Your natural breast tissue may also atrophy from the pressure of the breast implant.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The approach to breast augmentation surgery affects what kinds of complications become more likely. One approach involves the insertion of a silicone bag under the breast. This placement is called “submammary.” Another approach involves inserting the silicone bag under the chest muscle. This is called “subpectoral.” Next, the bag is filled with salt water, thereby expanding the breast area, and giving the patient a fuller bosom, increased cup size, better contour, and more cleavage.

Smooth vs Textured Implants

There are two types of implant, smooth and textured. The smooth implants normally require a large pocket and ten percent of the time can cause capsule contracture—a tightening of the scar around the implant, which causes excessive firmness or hardness. The smooth implant can also ripple or wrinkle occasionally, giving the skin above it a wavy appearance.

Textured implants are far less likely to cause capsule contracture at only three percent of the time, but far more likely to cause rippling (up to nine percent of the time).

Breast Augmentation Incision

The incision to insert the silicone bag can be made a number of ways. An incision can be made under the breast at the breast fold, at the edge of the areola (the brown area around the nipple), within the areola, in the armpit, or even in the umbilical area.

To learn more about breast augmentation, and find out if you are a good candidate, request a free consultation with a plastic surgeon near you.