Complications after Breast Implants Surgery : How to Avoid Them

Complications after Breast Implant Surgery and How to Prevent Them

Breast implants (Breast Augmentation) is a procedure to increase the size of your breasts. However, like any surgery, it’s important to know the potential complications that can happen. As a potential patient you’re taking a big step by educating yourself about these risks and how to avoid them.

Dr Jake Lim, a Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon, wants his patients to be informed and prepared for the breast implant (Breast Augmentation) journey. With many years of experience and a focus on patient safety, Dr Lim will guide you through the complications and give you advice on how to minimise the risks.

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Common Complications: What to Expect after Breast Implants (Breast Augmentation) Surgery

While breast implant surgery (Breast Augmentation) is safe, it’s important to know some common complications that can happen.

Infection: Although rare, infections can occur after surgery. You may experience fever, redness, swelling or discharge from the incision site. Treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent more serious problems. Infections usually occur within the first few weeks after surgery but in rare cases can happen months or even years later. Dr Lim uses strict sterile technique and may prescribe preventive antibiotics. It’s imperative you follow all post-operative instructions to the letter to keep your incision sites clean and protected.
Capsular contracture: This is when scar tissue around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant, causing pain or changing the shape of the breast. It can occur months or even years after surgery. Capsular contracture is graded from I to IV, with I being normal and unnoticeable and IV being severe and often requires surgery. The exact cause is not always clear but factors such as infection, haematoma or individual healing response may contribute. Dr Lim uses techniques to minimise this risk such as careful implant placement and possibly the “no-touch” technique during surgery.
Implant rupture or leakage: While implants are durable, they can sometimes rupture or leak. With saline implants you’ll notice deflation quickly as the sterile salt water is harmlessly absorbed by your body. Silicone implant ruptures can be silent and require imaging to detect. That’s why regular imaging studies are important for long term care. The lifespan of implants varies but they are not lifetime devices. You may need to consider replacement or removal after 10-15 years depending on your individual case.
Nipple or breast sensation change: You may experience increased or decreased sensation in your nipples or breasts. This is usually temporary but can be permanent. This is due to nerve stretch during surgery or pressure from the implants.
Breast pain: Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but persistent pain could be a complication. Immediate post-operative pain is managed with pain medication but any severe or increasing pain should be reported to Dr Lim straight away. Chronic pain can occur due to nerve irritation or capsular contracture and may require further treatment.
Implant malposition: Sometimes implants can shift and cause asymmetry or an unnatural look. This can happen early in the healing process or develop over time. Factors such as implant size, pocket dissection during surgery, hyperactivity during the healing process and your body’s healing process can contribute to malposition. In some cases this may require revision surgery to reposition the implant.

Also worth noting is that breast implant rippling is not a complication but some women do experience it. This is when you can see or feel the edges of the implant through your skin. More common in women with little natural breast tissue and those with saline implants placed over the muscle.

You should know that this list may seem scary but most women who have breast implant surgery do not have significant complications. Dr Lim’s experience and proper pre-operative planning and post-operative care reduces the risks. During your consultation Dr Lim will go through these risks in detail. He will explain how he minimises each risk and answer any questions you may have. Your safety and satisfaction is his top priority and understanding these potential complications is part of your journey.

Breast Augmentation Patient 59 - 435cc Round Implants Under Muscle — Breast Augmentation Patient 59 – 435cc Round Implants Under Muscle

Less Common but Serious Complications

While less common, there are some serious complications you should be aware of when considering breast implant (Breast Augmentation) surgery.

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): This is a type of cancer of the immune system associated with textured implants. It’s very rare but if suspected needs immediate attention. BIA-ALCL develops in the scar tissue and fluid around the implant. Symptoms may include persistent swelling or pain around the breast implant which often occurs years after the surgical site has healed. While the risk is low, it’s good to know that this condition is treatable especially if caught early. Dr Lim is up to date with the latest research and guidelines on BIA-ALCL.
Systemic symptoms (breast implant illness): Some women report various symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, memory problems or cognitive issues that they blame on their implants. This cluster of symptoms is often referred to as breast implant illness (BII) and is not yet fully understood by the medical community. Research is ongoing to determine the cause and extent of this potential issue. Not yet a recognised medical condition, Dr Lim takes these reports seriously and will discuss with you if you have concerns about BII. If you experience symptoms after your surgery, Dr Lim will work with you to determine the best course of action which may include further testing or in some cases implant removal.
Bleeding or haematoma: Excessive bleeding after surgery can cause a collection of blood around the implant called a haematoma. This can cause swelling, pain and may require additional surgery to drain the blood and stop the bleeding. Some bruising is normal after surgery but significant swelling especially if it’s asymmetrical or with severe pain should be reported to Dr Lim immediately. Haematomas usually occur within the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery which is why close monitoring during the immediate post-operative period is important.

Aesthetic Complications after Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty)

The main goal of breast implant surgery is to increase your breast size, but it’s important to know that sometimes the results may not meet your expectations. Aesthetic complications may not be harmful to your health but can affect your satisfaction with the procedure. Here are some of these potential issues:

Rippling or wrinkling: This can occur when the edges of the implant becomes visible or palpable through the skin, more common in women with thin breast tissue. You may notice a wavy appearance on the surface of your breast especially along the outer edges or underneath. Rippling is more common with saline implants and those placed over the chest muscle (subglandular placement). To minimise this risk, Dr Lim will assess your existing breast tissue and may recommend silicone implants or submuscular placement if you’re prone to this issue. In some cases fat grafting can be used to add extra coverage over the implant.
Asymmetry: Your breasts may heal differently and may be slightly different in size or shape. Remember perfect symmetry is rare even in natural breasts and some degree of asymmetry after surgery is normal. However noticeable unevenness can be distressing. This can manifest as differences in implant position, nipple height or overall breast shape. Factors that can contribute to asymmetry are pre-existing breast asymmetry, differences in chest wall anatomy or uneven healing. Dr Lim takes precise measurements and uses surgical techniques to reduce this risk but if significant asymmetry persists after healing a revision surgery may be considered.
Visible implant edges: In some cases the edges of the implant may be visible especially in thin patients or those with little natural breast tissue. This is different from rippling in that you may see a distinct outline of the implant especially along the upper pole of the breast or near the cleavage area. To address this Dr Lim will select implant sizes and profiles that suit your body type and desired outcome. He may also recommend dual-plane placement where the implant is partially under the muscle to provide more coverage.
Size or shape dissatisfaction: You may feel your results are too subtle or too dramatic once the swelling subsides. It’s not uncommon for women to wish they had gone bigger or smaller after seeing the final results. That’s why Dr Lim places great importance on the consultation process, using sizers to help you visualise the potential outcome.
Another aesthetic consideration is the potential for ‘double bubble’ deformity where a visible line appears across the lower part of the breast creating a ‘double breast’ look. This can occur if the implant sits too high or if there’s a discrepancy between the natural breast crease and the new implant position.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that your results will continue to evolve as you heal. Dr Lim will guide you through this process, explaining how your breasts will look immediately after surgery, during the healing process and once fully settled. He’ll also advise on massage techniques and supportive garments that can help shape your results.

Breast Augmentation Patient 50 - 295cc Round Implants — Breast Augmentation Patient 50 – 295cc Round Implants

Factors That Affect Complication Risks

Here are some of the factors that can increase the risks of complications:

Your health and lifestyle: Diabetes or smoking can increase risks.
Implant type and size: Implant material, texture and size can affect complications.
Surgical technique: Incision site and implant placement can affect risks and outcome.
Post-operative care: Follow Dr Lim’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and risk reduction.

Dr Lim’s Approach to Reducing Complications

Dr Jake Lim uses several methods to reduce your risks:

Pre-operative assessment: Dr Lim will assess your health, discuss your goals and help you choose the right implants for your body.
Advanced surgical techniques: Dr Lim uses the latest techniques to minimise trauma and maximise results.
Choosing the right implants: Dr Lim will help you choose implants that fit your body and reduce risks.
Sterile operating environment: Strict sterilisation protocols are followed to minimise infection risks.

What You Should Do to Prevent complications

You have a big part to play in a smooth recovery. Here are some recommendations:

Follow pre-operative instructions: May include stopping certain medications or quitting smoking.
Follow post-operative care: Proper wound care, wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities are essential.
Monitor for complications: Be aware of any unusual symptoms and report them early.
Attend follow-up appointments: These are to check on your healing and address any concerns.

What to Do if Complications Arise

If you suspect a complication:

Recognise warning signs: Unusual pain, swelling, redness or fever should be acted upon immediately.
Contact Dr Lim: Don’t hesitate to call if you’re concerned. Early intervention can often prevent more serious problems.
Available treatments: Depending on the complication, treatments can range from medication to revision surgery. Dr Lim will guide you through the best options for you.

Remember, while this may seem like a lot to take in, complications are rare especially when you’re in the hands of an experienced surgeon like Dr Lim.

FAQs about Complications after Breast Implants (Breast Augmentation) Surgery

How long after surgery can I exercise and are there any specific activities I should avoid to prevent complications?

While recovery times vary, most patients can start light exercise after 3-4 weeks. But you should avoid high impact activities and exercises that target the chest muscles for at least 6-8 weeks. Dr Lim will give you a personalised timeline based on your healing progress. Ease back into your fitness routine slowly to prevent implant displacement or other complications. Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain or discomfort.

Can pregnancy or breastfeeding cause complications with my breast implants?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding doesn’t cause complications with breast implants. Some women with implants can breastfeed. However, pregnancy can affect the appearance of your breasts and may affect your cosmetic results. The breasts may change in size and shape and may sag or be asymmetrical. If you’re planning to have a baby, discuss this with Dr Lim as it may affect the timing of your surgery or the placement of the implants.

Are there long term health risks with breast implants I should be aware of?

While breast implants are safe, some studies suggest a possible link between implants and rare autoimmune disorders and in some cases, breast implant related Lymphoma. However, research is ongoing and no causal link has been proven. Dr Lim stays up to date with the latest research and will discuss the long term risks with you based on the current evidence. Regular check-ups and being aware of any changes in your health is important for long term care.

What is symmastia and how can it be prevented?

Symmastia, also known as uniboob, is a rare complication where the implant pockets merge in the middle of the chest and there is no separation between the breasts. This can happen if the implant pockets are over dissected towards the centre of the chest. Dr Lim uses precise surgical techniques to create the right sized and positioned implant pockets and considers your natural breast anatomy and chest wall structure when planning the surgery. If symmastia occurs it usually requires revision surgery to correct.

Can certain lifestyle factors increase my risk of complications after breast implant surgery?

Yes, several lifestyle factors can affect your risk of complications. Smoking increases risk by affecting blood flow and healing. You should quit smoking at least 4-6 weeks before and after surgery. Excessive alcohol consumption can also affect healing and increase bleeding risk. Maintaining a stable weight is important as significant weight fluctuations can affect your results. Certain occupations or hobbies that involve repetitive arm movements or heavy lifting may require a longer recovery period to prevent complications. Dr Lim will discuss how your lifestyle will affect your surgery and recovery during your consultation.

Potential Complications after Breast Implants Surgery (Breast Augmentation) and How to Avoid Them