Breast augmentation

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%.

Implant Infection is uncommon (less than 1% chance) but can be serious 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 increases the risk of problems further down the line.

Some asymmetry is common before surgery and this will be pointed out to you. After surgery, the asymmetry may remain and sometimes can be more noticeable.

Capsular contracture is the commonest complication of breast implants and happens when the capsule or scar that forms around the implant becomes thicker and starts to tighten around the implant. This can result in your breasts feeling more firm and can also change the shape of your breasts. Your may also experience tenderness. As many as 1 in 10 women with breast implants will develop capsular contracture.

Some altered sensation to the breasts after breast implant 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.

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 capsular contracture. A small number of implants may rupture. This poses no health risks. In most cases the leak is contained within the capsule and many women will not be aware that their implant has ruptured. Some women will notice a change in the size, shape or consistency of their breast. A lump might appear and the breast can 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.