Breast implant cosmetic surgery current ranks as the number two procedure in the US after liposuction. The breast implant techniques have improved over the years and new advanced qualities of implants are now available, which have contributed to the rising popularity of breast implants.
However, patients should be aware that breast implant surgery will still involve all the usual risks associated with a typical surgery, in addition to implant performance risks. During the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will discuss the potential risks and complications so that the patient can make a well-considered decision.
Board certified and profound plastic surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim provides breast implant surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and other cities and communities in The Golden State.
Implant-Specific Risks
Breast enlargement involves the surgical placement of saline or silicone implants, which has its own unique set of risks.
Capsular Contracture
Once the surgeon places the implant in the breast tissue, it will stimulate the immune response to create a scar tissue around the implant. This is a normal occurrence, but in a few cases, the scar tissue may begin to contract or become harder. This will exert more pressure on the implant.
This pressure will squeeze the outer silicone shell of the implant, causing it lose its shape, or move from its desired position. The outer implant shell may also be damaged in some cases. Breast implant replacement or removal cosmetic surgery may have to be performed in such cases.
Implant Rippling
Breast implants are available in sizes ranging from 100 cc to 1000 cc. But the patient should select an implant size that is in proportion to the amount of skin available to cover the implant well. If the implant size is overly large, it may lead to the implant developing folds or creases. This may create a rippling effect on the surface of the skin, compromising the natural breast look.
The surgeon can reduce this risk by ensuring that the patient chooses only the most appropriate size and shape of breast implants after considering her specific breast anatomy and skin availability. Accomplished and terrific plastic surgeon Dr. Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA and nearby areas.
Implant Damage or Shifting
In some cases, the implant may shift from its position just after the surgery has been performed. The risk of displacement increases in case of larger implants. Another risk that is common to all types of implants is the risk of breast implant rupture. This condition may have to be corrected with breast revision surgery.
Surgery-related Risks
Infection
The risk of infection can be minimized when the breast implant procedure is performed at an accredited surgical center that maintains a sterile surgical environment. Following the surgery, the patient should avoid exposing the incision sites to contaminants in order to minimize infection risk.
Numbness
Altered sensation in the incision sites, sensitivity or numbness may take place after the breast implant surgery. Numbness is usually temporary and will resolve on its own in a few days.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
