Breast Enlargement

Possible Complications Associated with Breast Augmentation

The most common complications of breast augmentation are:

Wrong choice of implant size. Sometimes patients believe that their implants are too big; more commonly they believe that they are are too small. The likelihood of patient dissatisfaction can be markedly reduced by a proper preoperative evaluation as well as by the surgeon's experience. Implant size is always discussed with Dr. Cruise during preoperative evaluation and consultation. At that time, you will try on specially-designed bras filled with different volumes of rice to imitate what the implants will look and feel like. Patients report that this helps tremendously to determine what size is best for them.
Asymmetry and/or implant mal position.
Capsular contracture. This is when thick scar tissue forms over the implant making the breast feel hard.
Nipple sensory changes. This is common right after surgery but usually goes away. Often, the nipple is hypersensitive for the first 6 weeks after the procedure and may be quite erect. This will go away with time.
Infection. Because an implant is a foreign body, infection is always a consideration. To avoid this, Dr. Cruise uses antibiotics during and after the operation as well as a meticulously sterile technique. If infection does occur, it is possible that the implant may need to be removed.
Implant rupture. If this happens, the saline leaks harmlessly into the body tissues. Most of the time the implant manufacturer will pay for a new implant.
Implant rippling. This is markedly reduced when the implant is placed under the muscle. It occurs more commonly along the lateral margin where complete submuscular coverage is not always possible. See FAQ's for a more detailed explanation.

Breast Augmentation Information Resource for Orange County, Newport Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, Beverly Hills, and Southern California