One of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery is breast augmentation. Although the insertion of breast implants (either silicone gels or saline-filled) have given instant curves to millions of women all over the world, there are some long-term risks and side effects associated with the procedure. Understanding these risks and complications of getting breast implants is crucial to every woman considering going under the knife.
Breast Feeding and Mammography
Even with breast implants, many patients can still successfully breastfeed. Occasionally, though, breast implants do interfere with breast feeding. Those planning to breastfeed at anytime subsequent to the surgery must inform their surgeons so the appropriate surgical method will be used.
It is also possible that breast implants may obstruct early detection of breast cancer. During medical tests such as a mammography, ultrasound or X-ray, breast implants can block possible lesions or tumors. Those with implants must inform the radiologists before making an appointment so they can make the necessary adjustments with the procedure. Additional time for views and imaging is usually given to patients with implants.
Since mammography involves the compressing of the breasts; this increases the chance of rupture of the implants.
Rupturing
Splitting or tearing can occur with the older, thin-walled breast implants. Rupture can also be caused by trauma or compression to the breast. The risk comes from the possibility that the contents of the implants will leak out from the shell and spread into the breasts. This can cause siliconomas or small lumps, which cause pain and tenderness in the breast. When this happens, the implants must be removed. Silicon gels however are designed to hold their shape even if the shell is damaged.
Loss of Sensation and Capsular Contraction
Patients may experience loss of sensation in the breast area. This can be caused by damaged nerve endings in the nipple and breasts. Loss of sensation is often just temporary.
Capsular contracture refers to the shrinking and tightening of scar tissue around the implant causing it to deform and to harden. It can occur to one or both of the breast implants.
Deflation
Over time, implants can deflate and become smaller. This can be caused by rupturing and capsular contracture. Aside from capsular contracture, the rupture and deflation of implants are the most common complications that patients suffer from. This occurs with both saline-filled and silicone gel implants.
Cancer
According to some studies conducted by the National Caner Institute (NCI), women with breast implants are more susceptible to brain tumors, respiratory diseases, lung cancer and suicide.
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