Breast augmentation

Bleeding – Bleeding can occur, usually within the first 24 hours after surgery (sometime later). This will cause swelling and tenderness of the affected breast. If this occurs then a return to theatre is required to remove the blood and stop any ongoing bleeding. It does not affect the cosmetic outcome but you may end up more bruised and require an extra night in hospital. This risk of bleeding is around 1-2%.

Infection – This is uncommon (less than 1% chance) but can be problematic when it occurs as it usually requires removal of the implant. A new implant cannot be put back in place until at least 3 months after the infection has settled.

Under or overcorrection – You will always be involved in the decision making process to ensure that you are happy with the size of your breasts after the operation. Occasionally some patients will feel that they would have liked to be bigger (very rarely smaller). We cannot guarantee the final size and we will never place implants that are too large for your breast tissue to handle as this significantly increases the risk of problems further down the line.

Asymmetry – A degree of asymmetry is common before surgery and this will be pointed out to you. After your surgery the asymmetry may remain and in some cases can be more noticeable.

Capsular contracture – This is the commonest complication of breast implants and occurs when the capsule or scar that forms around the implant becomes thicker and starts to contract. This can make the breast feel firmer than it should and can also cause tenderness and distortion of the implant. The risk of noticeable firmness is up to 10% but most patients will not need revision surgery. The chance of needing a further operation for  is about 1% a year. So, after 10 years about 10% of women will have had revisional surgery.

Changes in sensation – Some altered sensation to the breasts after breast augmentation surgery is common. This usually relates to some numbness near the scar, and oversensitivity of the nipples. This gradually settles down, but may take several months to do so. A few patients may get numbness of the nipples. If numbness persists for more than six weeks after the surgery it is likely to be permanent.

Feeling or seeing the implants under the skin – In thin patients it is common to be able to feel the edges of the implants. This is less likely in patients who start off with a reasonable amount of their own tissue covering the implant. Over time some women may be able to see or feel ripples or folds in their implants particularly when leaning forwards. This risk of this happening can be reduced by placing the implants under the muscle where appropriate and ensuring that the implants are not too large.

Implant rupture/ failure – Modern breast implants are designed to last for life. They do not need to be replaced unless there is a specific problem such as severe scapular contracture. A very small number of implants may rupture. This poses no health risks. In most cases the leak is contained within the capsule and the patient does not notice problem. Some patients will notice a change in the size, shape or consistency of the implant. A lump might appear and the breast look swollen. A scan will usually be carried out and if this suggests the implant has ruptured, removal and exchange of the implant will be recommended.