Is Something Wrong with My Breast Implant?

Is Something Wrong with My Breast Implant?

Whilst breast augmentation remains one of the safest cosmetic procedures on the market, it is important to remember that like any surgical procedure, they can carry a risk of potential complications. 

In this blog, we will look at some of the most reported complications and some of the symptoms to look out for. 

Capsular contracture

This occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and tightens, causing the breast to feel hard or misshapen.

The symptoms of capsular contracture may include:

• Tightness or firmness in the breast
• Breast pain or discomfort
• A distorted or misshapen breast appearance
• A feeling of tightness or pressure in the breast
• Visible rippling or wrinkling of the breast
• Difficulty moving or raising the arm on the affected side
• Nipple inversion or retraction
• Asymmetry between the two breasts

The severity of capsular contracture can vary from mild to severe, and it can occur at any time after breast implant surgery, although it tends to be more common in the first few years following surgery. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention from a qualified plastic surgeon, as treatment may be necessary to correct the problem.

 Breast Implant rupture

This occurs when the outer shell of the implant breaks or tears, causing the contents of the implant to leak into the surrounding tissue.

The symptoms of breast implant rupture can vary, but here are some of the most common symptoms:

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

Implant displacement

This occurs when the implant shifts from its original position and can cause asymmetry or distortion of the breast. Implant malposition can occur at any time after breast implant surgery, and may be caused by trauma, capsular contracture, or other factors.

Here are some common symptoms associated with implant displacement:

• Asymmetry or unevenness between the two breasts
• Visible or palpable movement of the implant
• Visible rippling or wrinkling of the breast
• Difficulty moving or raising the arm on the affected side
• Changes in the shape or contour of the breast
• Pain or discomfort in the breast
• Nipple inversion or retraction

Treatment options for implant displacement may include surgical correction or replacement of the implant, depending on the severity of the displacement and the patient’s individual needs. It’s important to seek medical attention from a qualified plastic surgeon if you experience any of these symptoms after breast implant surgery.

Breast Implant Infection

This occurs when bacteria enter the breast tissue or implant during or after surgery and can cause pain, swelling, and redness. Some common symptoms of breast implant infection include:

• Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the breast
• Redness or warmth in the breast
• Fever or chills
• Drainage or pus from the incision site or around the implant
• Foul-smelling discharge from the breast
• Fatigue or malaise
• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea or vomiting

Breast implant infection is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience any of these symptoms after breast implant surgery, it’s important to contact your plastic surgeon right away. 

Seroma

This occurs when fluid accumulates around the implant and can cause swelling, pain, or infection. Symptoms may include:

• Swelling or fullness in the breast
• A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the breast
• Visible or palpable fluid accumulation around the implant
• A palpable lump or mass in the breast
• Changes in breast shape or contour

Now, breast seromas can occur within the first few days or weeks after surgery, but they may also develop later. If you experience any of these symptoms after breast implant surgery, it’s important to contact your plastic surgeon right away for an evaluation.

 Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)

This is a very rare type of cancer that has been linked to breast implants. Symptoms include:

• Persistent swelling or pain in the breast
• A lump or mass in the breast or armpit
• Redness or rash on the breast
• Hardening of breast tissue
• Fever or night sweats
• Fatigue or malaise
• Unexplained weight loss

It’s important to remember that the complications are not common, and many women with breast implants have no issues. Before you undergo any type of procedure, your chosen surgeon will discuss the risks with you, and be on hand following your surgery with post-operative instructions to ensure you are healing properly. 

If you have any questions about breast implant complications, or to book a Breast Implant Health screening, contact our experts.

If you are concerned about something being wrong with your breast implant or would like to book a breast health screening contact our experts at Implant Health.