Breast Implant Side Effects‍

When the aesthetic industry starts talking about a new surgical procedure, the first question that pops up in your head is ‘how safe is it?’.

In today’s world, patients and their families have become more aware of the potential side effects of cosmetic procedures and are asking questions before moving forward with surgeries. To answer these concerns, you might want to learn more about breast implant side effects.

Whether you’re considering getting breast augmentation or another type of plastic surgery, it is important to know what risks come with it. Surgery always carries some level of risk. However, when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who uses safe techniques and high-quality materials, the risk of complications is low.

The main goal here is to help you make an informed decision by providing you with all of the details you need to know about breast implant side effects so that you can decide whether this procedure is right for you at this time in your life as well as during different phases of your life moving forward.

What are the side effects of breast implants?

Breast implants, like any surgery, can lead to complications. The most common side effects of breast augmentation are soreness, swelling and bruising near the incision site and feeling like something is in your chest. These symptoms typically go away within six months of the procedure.

Other possible side effects include sensory changes, numbness, tingling and weakness in the arm or shoulder where the implant was inserted. Rare but serious risks that may occur are infections, anesthesia reaction, blood clots or injury to other organs near the incision site. If you have questions or concerns about the surgery you’re about to undergo or if you’ve had a complication after a previous surgery, please consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon to address any questions or concerns before proceeding with an operation.

Pain and discomfort

The first breast implant side effects that you might experience are pain and discomfort. The breast implants will be placed under the muscle so this can cause some tenderness in that area for a few days. Typically the tenderness will wear off in a week or two and you should be able to resume your regular activities without any problems.

Pain is a common side effect of getting breast implants but it is not something to worry about if it is mild and lasts a short amount of time. In addition to pain, you may also experience additional discomfort related to your surgery site such as headaches and nausea which can be treated with over-the-counter medications at home or prescription medication from your surgeon.

Incisions and scars

A breast implant is a silicone or saline-filled sac that is inserted behind the nipple area of your breasts to create a more desired shape and size. The surgery incision is typically made right underneath the nipple and can last for 2-3 weeks before you can comfortably wear a low-cut shirt.

The scarring on your chest will vary depending on your body type; if you are very slim with little fat, the scars may be nearly invisible, but if you have more curves in your body, then it may take up to 6 months for them to disappear. This doesn’t mean that all of these scars disappear, however. There are side effects of breast implant surgery where some scars will remain permanently even after many years.

Infection

One of the potential side effects of breast augmentation surgery is infection. This occurs because the implant is placed beneath the skin, which leaves it exposed to germs and bacteria. If there is an infection, you might need additional treatment or your doctor may recommend that you have a revision surgery.

Nerve damage

The most common side effects of having breast implants are related to the nerves. The nerves around the mammary glands, nipple and chest wall can be damaged by surgery. Nerves that provide sensation in the breasts, nipples and chest can also be damaged or cut during surgery.

In some cases, nerve damage may be permanent or long lasting. Some patients experience numbness or loss of sensation in the breasts or nipples even after implant removal. The nerves of your chest wall also carry important messages from your heart to your brain—so if they’re damaged, you may have symptoms like abnormal heart rate, dizziness and fainting spells after surgery.