Why do Breast Implants Hurt?

If you have recently undergone breast augmentation or are considering it, you may be wondering how much pain is normal and what you can expect during the healing period.

However, several other reasons may cause your breast implants to hurt including complications. Now, when it comes to complications associated with breast procedures, they are considered rare but if you suspect there is something wrong, we advise you to contact a professional for an examination. 

What does the Healing Process Look like?

Naturally, during your procedure, your surgeon will need to create an incision and stretch the existing breast tissue to place your implant. 

This may result in some post-operative pain, swelling, and tenderness which is completely natural and part of the healing process. Any pain can be controlled using anti-inflammatory medication and should begin to improve within a few weeks of surgery. 

What complications cause pain?

Now, whilst the risk of complication is low certain conditions may cause breast implant pain. 

Capsular contracture

 Capsular contracture occurs when the body’s immune system responds to the presence of a foreign object, such as a breast implant, by forming scar tissue around it. 

In some cases, this scar tissue can become thick and constrict, causing pain and discomfort.

Implant rupture or leakage 

If a breast implant ruptures, it can cause pain and discomfort. This can happen due to trauma, aging of the implant, or a defect in the implant.

Implant displacement

Sometimes, breast implants can shift or move out of place, causing pain and discomfort.

Breast Implant Infection 

Breast implant infections are rare but can occur. If an infection develops, it can cause pain, swelling, redness, and other symptoms.

If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort with your breast implants, you must speak with your plastic surgeon. They can perform a physical examination, imaging tests, or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.

For more information on breast pain, or to book a breast health screening contact Implant Health.

 

What are the signs of a Ruptured breast implant

What are the signs of a ruptured breast implant? If you have recently undergone a breast augmentation, or are considering one, ruptures are something to be aware of. 

Breast augmentation surgery remains one of the top-performed surgeries around the world and carries a very low complication risk. One of the complications associated with breast implants is a rupture.

What is a Breast Implant Rupture?

A breast implant rupture occurs when the outer shell of a breast implant breaks or tears, causing the contents of the implant to leak into the surrounding tissue. This can occur with both saline and silicone implants.

In the case of a saline implant rupture, the saltwater solution is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated or significantly smaller. 

In contrast, a silicone implant rupture may not be immediately noticeable, and the silicone gel may leak out of the implant and into the surrounding breast tissue. This can potentially cause changes in breast shape, firmness, or size, as well as pain, tenderness, or swelling.

Why do Breast Implant Ruptures happen?

A breast implant rupture can occur for a variety of reasons, such as trauma to the breast, aging of the implant, or a manufacturing defect. In some cases, there may be no obvious cause. It’s important to note that breast implant ruptures are not common and most implants last for many years without any problems.

If a breast implant rupture is suspected, imaging tests such as ultrasound, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options may include breast implant removal or breast implant replacement, depending on the specific situation and the individual’s goals.

What are the Symptoms of a Rupture?

The symptoms of a breast implant rupture can vary depending on the type of implant and the amount and location of the leaked material. Here are some common symptoms associated with breast implant rupture:

  • Pain or discomfort in the breast
  • Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance
  • Swelling, redness, or warmth in the breast
  • Lumps or masses in the breast
  • Hardening or thickening of the breast tissue
  • Numbness or tingling in the breast or arm
  • Skin rash or irritation
  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit

It’s important to note that not all breast implant ruptures cause symptoms and some ruptures may go undetected for years. That’s why we recommended that you schedule regular imaging tests to help identify any potential complications.

If a breast implant rupture is suspected, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the best course of treatment.

If you are concerned about breast implant ruptures or wish to book a screening with Implant Health, contact our experts.

 

Breast Implants Hurting

Breast Implants Hurting (what could it be?)

Following a breast augmentation, it is natural to experience pain and discomfort during your recovery period. However, persistent pain or irritation outside of the healing period is not a normal result of breast augmentation and should be checked by a professional. 

Whilst breast augmentation remains one of the safest cosmetic procedures on the market, it is important to remember that all medical procedures come with a risk of complication. 

Here are some of the possible reasons breast implants could hurt. 

Breast Implant Rupture

Whilst implant ruptures are most common in older implants, they can happen at any time. A rupture is when an implant tear inside the breast capsule, causing the filling to leak out. 

Now, some ruptures can be difficult to spot, but they can cause the surrounding breast tissue to become irritated, and you may experience pain, swelling, a significant hardening of the breast, or a change in size and shape.  

If you have saline implants, a rupture will result in almost immediate deflation making it easy to diagnose. In contrast, silicone implants can be difficult to detect without an ultrasound because the silicone solution is viscous and will leak out at a much slower rate, and usually remain around the breast capsule.  

Whilst ruptures are not considered dangerous, or a life-threatening emergency it is important that you have your breasts checked by a professional. We recommend undergoing regular breast screenings to monitor the overall health of your implant and detect any complications such as rupture that may require revision.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a fairly rare complication, but it can occur with both saline and silicone implants. 

Naturally, when an implant is placed the body forms a harmless capsule of scar tissue around the implant. Now, in most cases this scar tissue remains soft and flexible, however, sometimes it may become overly firm and start to squeeze the implant. This is known as capsular contracture

Typically, symptoms of capsular contracture manifest as pain, significant hardening of the breast, or visible changes to the breast’s size or shape. If you are concerned, we recommend having your implants reviewed by a professional as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of infection.  

Necrosis 

Necrosis is a more serious cause of breast implant pain that occurs when blood flow and oxygen to the area are restricted. This can result in the death of healthy breast tissue, known as necrosis. 

One of the key symptoms of necrosis to be aware of is a change in your skin colour around the breast becoming blue, purple, or black. You may also experience significant pain and should have your breasts checked as soon as possible to reduce the risk of any long-term damage.   

Lymph node Damage

Following your breast augmentation procedure, you may experience slight swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes around your armpit. 

If the pain persists beyond your natural healing period, there is a slight chance that the lymph nodes were damaged during surgery. If you have silicone implants, it can also be symptomatic of a rupture as silicone gathers around the area. 

Seroma 

Following breast augmentation procedures, a fluid known as serous is secreted and can gather around the incision area. If there is an excessive amount of serous fluid, it may develop a lump that can be painful to the touch known as a seroma.

It is important to closely monitor how your wounds heal following your procedure, and inform your surgeon of any additional pain, burning sensations, or changes to skin texture that could indicate a seroma. 

In the case of a seroma developing, your surgeon will usually call you in to check everything is healing as it should and drain the lump to help with any pain. 

Hematoma 

Hematoma is caused by blood from the incision pooling and clotting around the nearby tissue causing small, painful lumps to form. 

Usually, hematoma manifests as pain, swelling, and bruising around the breast. Now, in most cases, hematomas can clear up by themselves given time, but you must be checked out by a professional if you are concerned to identify and advise on any potential complications. 

It is important to remember that the average lifespan of a breast implant is around 10 years, after that they should be replaced or removed. Now, whilst complications associated with breast augmentation is rare, we recommend you undergo regular breast health screenings, such as an Implant Health screening to monitor the ongoing health of both the implant and the surrounding breast to identify any potential complications.

For more information, or to book your screening at one of our centres contact Implant Health.

 

Can Breast Implants Cause Health Problems

Can Breast Implants Cause Health Problems?

Can breast implants cause health problems? If you have undergone or are considering having a breast augmentation this is one question you may be pondering. 

Breast augmentations are considered safe; however, it is important to remember that like any medical procedure, they do carry a risk of complication. 

What Complications Should I be Aware of?

So, can breast implants cause health problems? Being one of the most popular, and sought-after cosmetic procedures, complications arising from breast augmentations are very rare. However, if you suspect something is wrong, it is important to get your implants checked by a professional as soon as possible. 

On average, the lifespan of a breast implant is around 10 years, but we recommend having your implants checked by a professional every couple of years to ensure it is still healthy. 

Below, we have detailed some of the complications to look out for. 

Breast Implant Infection

It is important to remember that breast implants are a foreign material and therefore can become infected. If you develop a high fever, breast pain, swelling, tenderness, breast discharge, or the breast feels hot to the touch, we advise you to seek professional help right away. 

Infections can generally be treated with antibiotics, but in more severe cases, we may need to clean the infected tissue and remove the implant.  

Breast Implant Ruptures

This type of complication is more common in older implants; however, they can occur at any time. Symptoms to look out for include a change in breast size or shape, hardness around the implant, redness on the skin, or lumps under the arm. 

For some patients, a ruptured implant may not present with any symptoms, this is known as a silent rupture. Again, we recommend having your implants checked regularly to avoid any problems.

Capsular contracture

It is natural for women to develop a thin layer of scar tissue over the surface of the implant, this is known as a capsule. However, if this capsule becomes abnormally thickened it may begin to cause discomfort in the breast or change its shape. 

We call this a capsular contracture, which may require surgery to remove the hard capsule of tissue. 

Breast Implant Malposition

This happens when the implant begins to move. It can happen soon after the initial surgery or sometimes later down the line. Now, there are several types of positioning problems, including: 

Rotation – this is more common with teardrop-shaped implants

Implant flipping – which results in a sudden change of shape

Slipping – where the implant slips to the bottom or the side of the breast.

Seroma (fluid around the implant)

If your implant ruptures or you have a low-grade infection it can cause fluid to collect around the implant. In rare cases, the fluid may be caused by anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) that develops around breast capsules. The most common symptom to look out for is an increase in your overall breast size, and you should always seek professional help to mitigate any further risk. 

BIA-ALCL

BIA-ALCL, otherwise known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is an extremely rare blood cancer that forms in the capsule of breast implants. It is thought to occur around 8-10 years following your procedure, and symptoms can include a build-up of fluid or a hard lump that you can feel. 

Here at Implant Health, we strive to empower and support you through your implant journey, so if you have any concerns or would like to book a screening contact our team.  

 

Breast Implant infection

Whilst breast augmentations are safe, like any medical procedure it does carry a complication risk, including breast implant infection, which we will look at in this blog.

What is breast Implant Infection?

In the weeks following your procedure, a bacterial infection could develop around the breast tissue, or the implant itself. However, it is worth noting that the chances of developing an infection in both saline and silicone breast implants are rare (around 1% – 2.5%). 

In some cases, late-onset infections can occur several months to years after the implant is placed, which is why we recommend undergoing regular breast implant screenings to mitigate any complication risk.  

Some studies indicate that the risk may be slightly higher following implant-based reconstructions after mastectomy, but this is something that will be discussed with you in detail before your procedure.

Breast Implant Infection Symptoms

The symptoms of breast implant infection can vary from person to person, but below are some of the things you should look out for:

  • High fever
  • Pain in the breast
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Discharge from the wound

Breast implant infections should be taken seriously and early consultation with your surgeon is recommended. 

Sometimes, in cases where antibiotics do not work to clear the infection your surgeon may recommend the removal of the breast implant until the infection subsides.. During removal, your surgeon may also remove the implant capsule.

How soon do Breast Implant Infections Heal?

If you are being treated with antibiotics, your symptoms should start to resolve within one week, but you are required to follow your surgeon’s advice and complete the course.

If your surgeon recommends you have the implant removed, this will be booked in as a separate surgery and the aftercare may be different to your original breast implant surgery. 

How can Breast Screenings help?

The average lifespan of any breast implant is around 10 years, after which time it should be replaced or removed. Following your augmentation, we recommend you book regular screenings to monitor the overall health of your implants. 

At Implant Health, we arrange individualised assessments, including MRI scans with our team of specialist surgeons and radiologists. During the screenings, we monitor how your implant has changed over time, and detect any issues, allowing us to recommend a suitable treatment, or refer you to a specialist. 

For more information on breast implant infections, or to book a screening contact our team at Implant Health.

My breast implant is the wrong shape – what can I do?

Whilst extremely rare, breast augmentations do carry a slight risk of complication. One of the main symptoms that something is wrong is a significant change in the look and feel of your implant. 

In this blog, we will look at some of the possible complications that could cause your breast implant to change shape and treatment for each condition.

What are the complications?

Breast augmentations remain the most sought-after cosmetic procedures around today. Now, complications from breast augmentations are rare but it is important to have your implants checked by a professional to treat the issue. 

On average, the lifespan of both saline and silicone breast implants is around 10 years. After this time, it is recommended that you have them replaced or removed. However, during the lifespan of your implant, we recommend you book regular breast health screenings to ensure your implant and surrounding breast remain healthy. 

Here are some complications that could cause your breast to change shape:

Capsular contracture

Following breast augmentations, it is natural to develop a thin layer of scar tissue over the surface of the implant. If this tissue becomes abnormally thickened it can cause discomfort in the breast and result in it changing shape. 

We call this a capsular contracture and sometimes will recommend further surgery to remove the affected tissue. 

Breast Implant Ruptures

Breast Implant Ruptures are more common in older implants, but they can occur at any time. If you have a saline implant, one of the main symptoms to look out for is a significant change in breast shape, and size. 

In silicone implants, ruptures may be a little more difficult to identify as the silicone generally remains around the breast tissue, but you may notice hardening of the breast.

Breast Implant Rupture treatment typically involves surgery to remove the implant, and replace it if necessary. 

Breast Implant Malposition

This can happen following the initial surgery, or later in life but Implant Malposition happens when the implant changes position in the breast. Changes can include rotation, flipping, and slipping but all will manifest as a change in overall breast shape. 

If you suspect your breast implant has moved, contact your surgeon, or book a screening at one of our facilities. A qualified surgeon will be able to correct the implant position or replace it if necessary. 

Seroma (fluid around the implant)

If your implant ruptures or you have developed a minor infection, fluid can collect around the implant which in most cases causes the breast to increase in overall size. You should always seek professional help to identify and treat the seroma to mitigate any further problems.  

Will breast implant screening help?

Yes. Regular breast screenings can monitor how your breast implants change over time and the overall health of the surrounding breast. Any change in shape or size will be detected during your screenings, and we will be able to identify the cause and recommend a suitable course of action.

For more information on breast implant infections, or to book a breast health screening contact our team at Implant Health.

Concerned About Breast Implants and Health?

If you’re concerned about breast implants and your health, it’s important to address your concerns in a proactive and informed manner. While breast augmentation is generally safe, it’s natural to want to ensure your well-being. Here are steps to consider if you think your breast implants are making you ill:

  1. Consult a Medical Professional:

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you believe might be related to your breast implants, the first step is to consult a qualified medical professional. A board-certified plastic surgeon or a healthcare provider experienced in breast implant issues can help evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and overall health.

  1. Document Your Symptoms:

Keep a detailed record of the symptoms you’re experiencing. Include information such as the type of symptoms, when they started, any patterns you’ve noticed, and how they impact your daily life. This information will be valuable when discussing your concerns with a medical professional.

  1. Be Open About Your Concerns:

When consulting a medical professional, be open and transparent about your concerns. Clearly communicate your symptoms, your suspicion that they might be related to your breast implants, and any relevant information about your medical history. This will help the healthcare provider assess your situation accurately.

  1. Consider Medical Testing:

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your healthcare provider might recommend medical testing to rule out other potential causes. Imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI can help assess the condition of your breast implants and surrounding tissue. These tests can provide valuable information for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

  1. Seek a Second Opinion:

If you’re unsure about the initial assessment or diagnosis, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion from another qualified medical professional. Different perspectives can help you make a well-informed decision about your health.

  1. Research and Educate Yourself:

While online information can be helpful, it’s essential to rely on reputable sources for information about breast implant health concerns. Look for information from reputable medical organizations, regulatory agencies, and established healthcare providers.

  1. Consider Implant Removal or Revision:

If your medical evaluations suggest that your breast implants might be causing health issues, you may need to consider implant removal or revision surgery. Discuss the potential benefits, risks, and considerations with your healthcare provider and plastic surgeon.

  1. Prioritize Your Well-Being:

Your health and well-being are of the utmost importance. Make decisions that prioritize your physical and emotional health. If you’re experiencing symptoms that significantly impact your quality of life, seeking appropriate medical attention is essential.

Conclusion:

If you believe your breast implants are making you ill, or are concerned about breast implants, it’s important to approach the situation with careful consideration and informed decision-making. Consulting qualified medical professionals, documenting your symptoms, and prioritizing open communication will guide you toward the best course of action for your health. Whether it’s seeking medical testing, considering implant removal, or exploring treatment options, taking proactive steps will ensure that you’re on the path to addressing your concerns and achieving your well-being.

 

Breast Implants and Health: Understanding Potential Risks and Myths

The decision to undergo breast augmentation is a deeply personal one, driven by a desire to enhance self-confidence and body image. While breast implants are generally safe and have provided positive outcomes for many individuals, concerns have arisen about the possibility of breast implants causing illness. It’s important to separate fact from fiction and understand the nuances surrounding the topic of breast implants and health.

Breast Implant Illness (BII):

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that some individuals with breast implants report experiencing. These symptoms can include fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, skin issues, and more. However, the medical community and researchers have not definitively established a causal link between breast implants and these symptoms.

Lack of Scientific Consensus:

While some individuals claim to have experienced health issues they attribute to breast implants, the medical community lacks a consensus on the existence and causes of Breast Implant Illness. Numerous factors can contribute to symptoms similar to those reported by some BII patients, making it challenging to attribute them solely to breast implants. The lack of a clear pattern of symptoms and the absence of a definitive diagnostic test complicate efforts to draw conclusive connections.

Research and Investigations:

Medical experts and researchers are actively investigating the potential links between breast implants and health issues. Studies are examining various factors, including implant type, material, surgical techniques, and individual immune responses. These investigations aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of any potential risks associated with breast implants.

Regulatory Oversight and Patient Advocacy:

Regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) closely monitor the safety of breast implants. Patient advocacy groups and individuals sharing their experiences on social media platforms have raised awareness about potential health concerns related to breast implants. This heightened awareness has prompted more conversations between patients and medical professionals, leading to more proactive discussions and assessments of individual health.

Individual Variability:

It’s important to recognize that each person’s body responds differently to medical interventions, including breast implants. While some individuals may report experiencing symptoms they attribute to breast implants, others may have no adverse effects. The variability in individual responses underscores the complexity of the issue and the need for personalized medical evaluations.

Consultation and Open Communication:

If you have concerns about the potential health implications of breast implants, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified medical professional. An experienced plastic surgeon can provide you with information about the benefits, risks, and considerations associated with breast augmentation. Open communication with your surgeon allows you to make an informed decision that aligns with your health and aesthetic goals.

Conclusion:

While some individuals believe breast implants have made them ill, the scientific community has yet to definitively establish a causal link between breast implants and illness. It’s important to approach the topic with careful consideration, seeking information from reliable sources and engaging in open conversations with medical professionals. As research continues to evolve, staying informed and prioritizing your health and well-being are essential when making decisions about breast augmentation or any medical procedure.

 

Signs and symptoms of capsular contracture

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For:

Capsular contracture is a potential complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. It involves the formation of scar tissue around breast implants, causing the tissue to become tight, firm, and potentially distorted. While the exact cause of capsular contracture isn’t fully understood, understanding the signs and symptoms can help individuals detect it early and seek timely medical attention.

Physical Changes and Symptoms:

The severity of capsular contracture can vary, and its symptoms may range from mild to more noticeable changes in breast appearance and texture. Some common signs to watch for include:

  1. Increased Firmness: The affected breast might feel firmer than the other breast or firmer than it initially was after surgery.
  2. Breast Distortion: Capsular contracture can lead to changes in breast shape or appearance. The breast may appear rounder, higher, or even asymmetrical compared to the other breast.
  3. Discomfort or Pain: Some individuals with capsular contracture may experience discomfort, pain, or pressure in the affected breast.
  4. Breast Sensitivity: Changes in breast sensation or increased sensitivity may occur due to the tightness of the scar tissue.
  5. Visible Rippling or Wrinkling: In some cases, the scar tissue may cause the breast implant to be visible or palpable through the skin, leading to a rippled or wrinkled appearance.

Grading of Capsular Contracture

To standardize the assessment of capsular contracture, a grading system known as the Baker classification is commonly used. It categorizes the severity of the condition based on physical examination and patient feedback:

– Grade I**: The breast is soft and appears natural.

– Grade II**: The breast is slightly firm but looks normal.

– Grade III**: The breast is firm and looks abnormal.

– Grade IV**: The breast is hard, painful, and appears distorted.

Seeking Professional Evaluation

If you suspect you might have capsular contracture, it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will conduct a thorough physical examination, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and potentially perform imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI to assess the condition of the breast tissue and implant.

Treatment Options

The treatment for capsular contracture depends on its severity. Mild cases might respond to non-surgical interventions like massage, medications, or ultrasound therapy. However, more advanced cases may require surgical intervention to remove the scar tissue (capsulotomy) or replace the implant (implant exchange) to achieve the desired results.

Conclusion

Awareness of the signs and symptoms of capsular contracture is crucial for individuals who have undergone breast augmentation. Regular self-examinations and close communication with a qualified plastic surgeon can lead to early detection and appropriate management. If you notice any changes in your breasts following breast augmentation surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance.

 

Understanding breast implant illness

Breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic procedure for decades, empowering women to enhance their self-confidence and body image. However, in recent years, concerns about a condition known as “breast implant illness” (BII) have emerged. BII refers to a collection of symptoms that some individuals with breast implants report experiencing. While it has gained attention, the actual prevalence and causes of breast implant illness remain subjects of ongoing research and debate.

Prevalence and Variability

The prevalence of breast implant illness is a topic that lacks clear consensus within the medical community. Reports of symptoms associated with BII vary widely, and many factors can influence these variations. Some individuals may experience symptoms that they attribute to their breast implants, while others with implants do not report any issues. This variability makes it challenging to pinpoint an exact prevalence rate.

Symptoms and Characteristics

Breast implant illness symptoms are diverse and can include fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, skin issues, and more. These symptoms are nonspecific and can be present in various health conditions, making it difficult to attribute them solely to breast implants. The lack of a distinct pattern of symptoms further complicates efforts to identify and diagnose BII.

Ongoing Research and Awareness

The medical community is actively researching breast implant illness to better understand its potential causes, risk factors, and associations. Studies are investigating the role of factors such as implant type, material, surgical techniques, and individual immune responses. Researchers are working to differentiate between BII and other conditions with similar symptoms to provide more accurate diagnoses and treatment options.

Patient Advocacy and Awareness

Patient advocacy groups and social media have played a role in raising awareness about breast implant illness. These platforms provide individuals with a space to share their experiences and connect with others who might be facing similar symptoms. This heightened awareness has led to more conversations between patients and medical professionals, fostering a proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks associated with breast implants.

Shared Decision-Making

Breast augmentation is a deeply personal choice, and individuals considering implants are encouraged to engage in open discussions with their plastic surgeon. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the perceived risks, including the possibility of breast implant illness. A shared decision-making process ensures that patients are well-informed and have realistic expectations about the outcomes and potential complications.

Breast implant illness

While concerns about breast implant illness have gained attention, the precise prevalence and causes of this condition remain subjects of ongoing research and discussion. Patients considering breast augmentation should approach the decision with thorough research, open communication with their medical professionals, and a clear understanding of the potential risks. Informed decision-making empowers individuals to make choices that align with their health, well-being, and aesthetic goals. As research continues to evolve, a collaborative effort between patients, advocacy groups, and medical experts will be crucial to further understanding and addressing the complexities of breast implant illness.