BOOK A SCAN

The Horror Stories of Breast Implants: What Women Need to Know

implanthealdev on October 2, 2023

Breast implants are certainly a hot topic these days. Many women opt to get them for a variety of reasons, including boosting their confidence or after surgery such as a mastectomy. However, there are some horror stories out there that raise serious concerns about the safety and potential side effects of getting breast implants. If you are a woman with implants or are considering getting them, it’s important to educate yourself on these risks and make an informed decision. In this blog, we will explore some of the horror stories surrounding breast implants and what you need to know.

Illnesses and Health Complications

One of the biggest concerns about breast implants is the potential health complications that can arise. Some women have reported illnesses such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, hair loss, and neurological problems after getting implants. This is believed to be due to the body’s immune response to the foreign object. Additionally, implant rupture or leakage can cause severe health problems, requiring surgery to remove the implant. It’s important to note that not all women will experience these issues, but they are a possibility to consider.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs when the scar tissue around the implant begins to tighten and squeeze the implant. This can cause discomfort, misshapen breasts, or even leakage or rupture of the implant. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the issue. While this complication is relatively rare, it’s important to be aware of it if you have or are considering getting implants.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

It’s no secret that getting breast implants can have a significant impact on a woman’s self-image and confidence. However, it’s important to consider the potential emotional and psychological effects as well. Some women have reported feeling immense pressure to maintain the “perfect” appearance of their newly enhanced breasts. This can lead to a negative body image and poor self-esteem. Additionally, some women have reported feeling like they are not taken as seriously by others, particularly in a professional or academic setting. It’s important to weigh the potential emotional and psychological effects of getting breast implants before making a decision.

Limited Posing Options

Believe it or not, having breast implants can limit your posing options, especially if you are someone who enjoys working out or engaging in physical activity. This can have a significant impact on your lifestyle and hobbies, and can even limit your options in certain careers. Additionally, finding well-fitting clothing and bras can also be a challenge for some women.

Breast implants can be a life-changing decision for many women, but it’s important to consider the potential side effects and horror stories before making a decision. The health complications, emotional and psychological effects, financial burden, and limited posing options are just a few of the things to consider. Ultimately, it’s up to each woman to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision that is right for her. Whether you have implants already or are considering getting them, it’s important to stay educated and informed about the potential risks and side effects. By doing so, you can make the best decision for your body and your overall well-being.

What are the signs of a Ruptured breast implant

implanthealdev on October 1, 2023

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

implanthealdev on September 19, 2023

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

implanthealdev on September 19, 2023

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.  

 

How to tell if my breast Implants have ruptured? 

implanthealdev on September 13, 2023

How can you tell if your breast implants are ruptured? It’s not always easy to diagnose a ruptured implant without the help of a qualified plastic surgeon, or an MRI scan, but in this blog, we will explore what to look out for and what to do if you suspect your implant has ruptured. 

What is a Breast Implant Rupture?

Before looking at ways to determine if your breast implant is ruptured, it helps to understand what a rupture is and how they occur. 

Breast implant ruptures are defined as a small tear in the breast implant itself which causes the filling to leak out into the surrounding breast tissue. Now, ruptures are most common in older implants but can happen at any time which is why we recommend undergoing regular screenings. 

Ruptures can happen with both saline, and silicone implants and whilst it is not considered to pose a health risk, you should consult a trained surgeon.

Some ruptures can be difficult to notice, a ruptured breast implant can cause surrounding breast tissue to become irritated, and you may experience:

  • Pain or swelling
  • Hardening of the breast
  • Lumps 
  • Changes in size or shape

With saline implants, the first thing people commonly notice is a significant change in the overall shape and size of the breast as well as some localised tenderness to the area. Now, saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution that can be absorbed by the body.

If you have silicone implants, it may be a little more difficult to tell. When a silicone implant ruptures, the silicone generally stays around the breast tissue so you may not notice any visible changes. This is known as a silent rupture. However, with a silent breast implant rupture, you may notice a significant hardening of the breast or pain around the area if the scar tissue becomes irritated. 

Again, silicone isn’t considered to pose any health risk, but the fluid can sometimes leak outside of the breast capsule and cannot be removed. 

Treatment for a ruptured breast implant

If you suspect your breast implant has ruptured, it is important that you speak to your surgeon, or book a scan at one of our Implant Health clinics where our team of specialist surgeons and radiologists will arrange a thorough assessment of your implant, and surrounding breast to determine a suitable course of action. 

Typically, a surgeon will recommend a small surgery to remove the ruptured implant, treat the scar tissue if necessary and replace the implant if necessary. 

It is important to remember that breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. Most implants have a lifespan of approximately 10 years, and after that may require changing or removal. 

For more information on breast implant ruptures, or to book a screening at one of our implant Health clinics, contact our team.

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

implanthealdev on September 1, 2023

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?

implanthealdev on August 20, 2023

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.

 

Understanding Breast Implant Rupture

implanthealdev on August 1, 2023

Breast augmentation has provided countless women with the opportunity to enhance their self-confidence and body image. While breast implants are generally durable, there is a possibility of rupture over time. Recognizing the signs of a potential rupture and taking prompt action is crucial for ensuring your health and well-being.

Common Causes and Types of Breast Rupture:

Breast implant rupture can occur due to various factors, including the age of the implant, trauma, or wear and tear. Ruptures can be categorized into two types:

Silent Rupture: This type of rupture occurs when the implant shell tears or develops a hole without causing noticeable symptoms. Silent ruptures can be challenging to detect without imaging techniques.

Symptomatic Rupture: In some cases, a rupture may cause visible changes or physical discomfort. The symptoms may be more apparent and prompt individuals to seek medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms of Rupture:

While some ruptures might not cause noticeable symptoms, there are signs to watch for that could indicate a potential issue:

Change in Breast Shape: A ruptured implant may cause a change in the shape, size, or symmetry of the breast.

Breast Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals may experience discomfort, pain, or tenderness in the breast or chest area.

Change in Texture: The breast may feel different to the touch, with uneven or lumpy areas.

Visible Rippling or Wrinkling: A rupture might lead to visible rippling or wrinkling of the breast implant.

Change in Breast Sensation: Altered sensation or numbness in the breast or nipple area may occur.

Taking Action and Seeking Medical Evaluation:

If you suspect that your breast implant has ruptured, it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a medical professional with experience in breast implant evaluations. They will conduct a thorough physical examination and recommend further tests, which may include:

Imaging: Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, or mammogram can help visualize the condition of the implant and determine whether it has ruptured.

Exploratory Surgery: In some cases, surgical exploration may be necessary to confirm a rupture and remove the implant if needed.

Treatment Options:

The treatment for a ruptured breast implant depends on the type of rupture and the condition of the implant. If a silent rupture is detected, your surgeon will discuss whether implant removal or replacement is necessary. In the case of a symptomatic rupture, surgical intervention may be recommended to address any discomfort, restore the breast’s appearance, and replace the implant.

Conclusion:

Being vigilant about the signs of breast implant rupture is essential for maintaining your health and peace of mind. If you suspect a rupture, don’t delay seeking medical evaluation. Early detection and appropriate action can lead to timely intervention and ensure the best possible outcomes. Regular follow-ups with your plastic surgeon and open communication about any changes you notice will contribute to your ongoing well-being and satisfaction with your breast augmentation results.

 

Breast Implant Rupture and Symptoms: Understanding the Risks

implanthealdev on June 16, 2023

Breast Implant Rupture

Breast augmentation surgery has long been a popular choice for women seeking to enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved. One significant risk associated with breast implants is rupture, which occurs when the implant shell tears or breaks. Understanding the signs and symptoms of a breast implant rupture is crucial for early detection and appropriate medical intervention.

Breast Implant Rupture

Breast implant rupture can occur in both saline-filled and silicone gel-filled implants, although the signs and symptoms can differ between the two types. In the case of saline implants, the rupture is usually more noticeable as the saline solution leaks out rapidly, leading to a deflation of the affected breast. This sudden change in breast size and shape is often a clear indicator that a rupture has occurred. In some cases, the saline solution may be absorbed by the body, resulting in no noticeable physical changes.

Silicone gel-filled implants, on the other hand, present a different challenge. When a rupture occurs in these implants, the gel tends to remain within the breast capsule or migrate to other areas of the body. This silent rupture may not be immediately detectable without medical imaging, making regular monitoring and follow-up crucial for women with silicone gel-filled implants.

While some women with a breast implant rupture may not experience any noticeable symptoms, others may exhibit certain indicators that warrant medical attention. These symptoms can vary depending on the type of implant and the severity of the rupture. Common symptoms associated with a ruptured implant include:

  1. Change in breast size or shape: As mentioned earlier, a sudden deflation or alteration in breast size and shape may be evident in cases of saline implant rupture.
  2. Pain or discomfort: Some women may experience pain or tenderness in the breast or chest area, which can be a result of a ruptured implant.
  3. Lump or mass: In certain cases, a rupture may cause the formation of a lump or a palpable mass in the breast or armpit area.
  4. Changes in breast texture: The affected breast may feel unusually firm, uneven, or distorted.
  5. Swelling or inflammation: Ruptured implants can lead to localized swelling or inflammation around the breast.
  6. Numbness or tingling: Nerve compression or irritation due to a ruptured implant may result in numbness or tingling sensations in the breast or arm.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other breast-related conditions. Therefore, if a woman experiences any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosing a breast implant rupture typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and possibly further investigations. Techniques such as mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly used to assess the integrity of the implant and detect any leaks or ruptures.

If an implant rupture is confirmed, the recommended course of action will depend on various factors, including the type of implant, the extent of the rupture, and the woman’s overall health. In some cases, surgical removal or replacement of the implant may be necessary, while others may opt for a conservative approach if the rupture is not causing significant issues.

In conclusion, breast implant rupture is a potential complication associated with breast augmentation surgery. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of a rupture is crucial for early detection and appropriate medical intervention. Regular monitoring, follow-up appointments, and open communication with healthcare professionals are essential for maintaining breast health and ensuring timely intervention if a rupture occurs. As with any surgical procedure, informed consent and thorough discussions about potential risks and benefits are vital for women considering breast augmentation surgery.

Check if your breast implants are ruptured

If you have concerns about your breast implants, Implant Health can help. We encourage regular breast implant check-ups of your implants to address issues and check for any problems. To get a check-up, please book an appointment.

 

Worried about your breast implants?

If you’re worried about your implants, we can help.

The benefits of breast implant checks include the early detection of implant-related problems and the ability to monitor how your breast and implant change over time.

Book A Breast Implant Health Check

Is Something Wrong with My Breast Implant?

implanthealdev on June 14, 2023

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.

Worried about your breast implants?

If you’re worried about your implants, we can help.

The benefits of breast implant checks include the early detection of implant-related problems and the ability to monitor how your breast and implant change over time.

Book A Breast Implant Health Check