Silicone breast implants are used for breast reconstruction or breast augmentation. Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is done to restore the shape of the breast after its removal to treat or prevent breast cancer. Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery where the shape and size of the women's breasts are altered for cosmetic reasons. According to the Mayo Clinic, silicone breast implants are pre-filled with silicone gel. This is a thick, sticky gel that gives the feel of normal human fat. However, silicone breast implants have certain dangers and risks associated with them. According to the Mayo Clinic, these dangers include implant rupture or deflation, capsular contracture, infection and others.
Implant Rupture or Deflation
According to the Mayo Clinic, rupture or deflation is one of the dangers associated with silicone breast implants. The Mayo Clinic's health website says that a silicone breast implant rupture may not be noticed immediately. However, women may notice certain symptoms in case of a ruptured implant. These include breast pain and swelling. Burning, tingling, numbness, or redness may be noticed in the affected breast. The shape of the breast may be distorted or the size may change. The breast may harden or soften.
Capsular Contracture
According to the Mayo Clinic, capsular contracture is one of the dangers associated with silicone breast implants. Capsular contracture occurs due to the natural growth of breast tissue. The growth of breast tissue around or on the silicone breast implant contracts the implant and gives it a hard feel and look. This leads to the formation of scar tissue around the implant, which may cause pain. Tissue growing over a foreign object is a natural reaction of the body. A capsule is formed around all implants; however, it requires treatment when the capsular contracture becomes excessive and painful.
Infections and Other Dangers
According to the Mayo Clinic, infection and other dangers are also associated with silicone breast implants. Wound healing after the implant may take a longer time than usual. The implant may also protrude through the skin. Bleeding may also occur from the breast. Permanent changes can occur in the nipples and in breast sensation. If the implant is not placed snugly into the breast, there is danger of the implant rotating its position and distorting the shape of the breast.
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