Signs of a Botched Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a very complex procedure, and despite the large numbers of surgeries performed each year, there is still potential for complications to arise. To reduce the risk of such complications, make sure you have a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in breast enlargements perform the procedure.

A poorly performed breast augmentation can leave you feeling less attractive than you did before the operation. It can also require you to undergo one or more follow-up procedures to correct the problem.

The following are some examples of common complications that occur when your breast enlargement doesn’t go exactly as planned:

• Rupturing – All breast implants are at risk to rupture. If a rupture occurs, it will leave your breasts looking misshapen and out of proportion with each other. If you have saline implants, the liquid will be absorbed by your body. If a silicone implant ruptures, the leak will be slower and your body will not absorb the gel. You will need to consult your cosmetic surgeon immediately if your implant ruptures, since it will require additional surgery.




• Capsular Contraction – Sometimes scar tissue will form around the implant. If it starts to squeeze your implant, it will cause you a great deal of pain and can lead to infection and distorted breast shape.




• Symmastia – If your implants are placed too close together, they may have a tendency to connect at the center of your chest. This makes it look like you have one connected breast.




• Failed Cancer Screenings – A poorly inserted silicone implant can cause problems with mammography readings, which might impair your doctor’s ability to diagnose breast cancer at an early stage.




• Bottoming Out – Implants that are poorly placed can sometimes shift downward in the breast tissue. This downward shifting can also be caused by an implant that is too large for your body. As a result, your nipples might point upwards. You will need surgery to correct this problem.




• Loss of Sensation – Sometimes, loss of sensation in the nipples and breasts occurs after breast enlargement. Frequently, you will regain sensation after healing from the surgery. However, in badly botched augmentations, this loss of sensation may be permanent. This might also adversely affect breast feeding in the future.

It is important to discuss all of these risks and complications, along with your medical history, in great detail with your cosmetic surgeon before deciding whether or not to go ahead with breast implant surgery.