Breast implants are surgical enhancement of the size and possibly the shape of the breast. Breast augmentation surgery can be performed following breast-removing surgeries in breast cancer patients or in healthy women who wish to increase the size of their bust. The breast implant surgical procedure, as well as the introduction of foreign material into the breast, can lead to a number of side effects and complications that can threaten the health of the patient.
Surgical Risks
Breast implant surgery can require general anesthetic, which always carries a risk of adverse reactions in patients. Genetic differences between patients can affect the efficacy of some medications, and some medications may cause allergic reactions during surgery that can be life-threatening. In a 2005 study published in the British Journal of Anesthesia, Dr. M. Krøigaard states that allergies to anesthesia occur at a rate of one in 10,000 and one in 20,000.
To reduce the risk of adverse reactions to anesthetic, follow the doctor's directions and abstain from eating or drinking the day of the surgery, and ensure your plastic surgeon has your full medical history and a list of any allergies you may have. Choose a reputable doctor, so that a well-trained anesthesiologist is present at your surgery to monitor your health over the course of the procedure.
Capsular Contracture
After breast implant surgery, a number of complications can arise with the body's reaction to the implant. Capusular contracture occurs when the body forms extensive scar tissue, which tightens around the implant, making the breast feel hard. According to San Diego State University, capsular contracture is the most common complication of breast augmentation surgery.
Capular contracture cannot be prevented or predicted, and may require eventual removal of the implant. The treatment for capsular contracture is additional surgery to remove the excess scar tissue.
Implant Rupture
Breast implants do not last forever. Over time, fluid from the implant can leak out into the surrounding breast tissue, or the implant can complete rupture, causing damage to the muscles and connective tissue of the chest. The leakage or rupture of silicone implants is more dangerous, as the body recognizes the silicone as foreign, so leakage may stimulate an immune response. Leakage of saline implants is harmless, as saline is absorbed by the body. The rupture of either type of implant can damage neighboring tissue.
The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine Cosmetic Center estimates that the rupture rate of implants is about 1 percent per year, so an implant that is five years old has a 5 percent chance of rupturing. If an implant does rupture, it requires immediate medical attention.
References
- British Journal of Anesthesia: Allergic reactions in anaesthesia: are suspected causes confirmed on subsequent testing?
- San Diego State University: Breast Reconstruction
- Southern Illinois University School of Medicine Cosmetic Center: The Cosmetic Center - Plastic Surgery of the Breast
- Institute of Medicine: Information for Women About the Safety of Silicone Breast Implants
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