Risks

Some of the complications and adverse outcomes of breast implants include:

• extra surgeries, with or without removal of the implant
• capsular contracture (scar tissue that forms around the implant and squeezes the implant, which can cause contour deformities)
• breast pain
• changes in nipple and breast sensation
• rupture with deflation of saline-filled implants
• rupture with or without symptoms (silent rupture) of silicone gel-filled implants
• asymmetry (one breast appears different in size or shape to the other)
• breast tissue thinning
• delayed wound healing
• skin breakdown and extrusion of the implant (the surface of the breast implant becomes exposed)
• haematoma (bruising)
• seroma (fluid build-up)
• infection
• inflammation
• malposition/ displacement (the implant moves out of its intended position)
• ptosis (sagging of the breast)
• skin rash
• wrinkling/rippling
• dissatisfaction with the result
• breast implant associated cancer.

Some experts say rough (textured) breast implants stick better to the surrounding tissue. It might help some patients with a reduction of complications. These being capsular contraction, rippling, implant displacement, and asymmetry.

Breast implant associated cancer, also known as Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), is a risk with these implants. This should be something you talk about with your surgeon before going ahead.

Consumers should remember that implants are not lifetime devices. After 10-15 years, they're usually removed. When you have breast implants for a long time, there is a greater risk of complications. Any reoperation doesn't guarantee a good aesthetic result.