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Breast augmentation, commonly referred to as a ‘boob job,’ is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure that can increase self-esteem and body image. While many women undergo this surgery successfully, as with any medical procedure there can be potential risks; in this article, we explore these potential breast implant augmentation complications, with a specific focus on capsular contraction.
What are the Breast Implant Surgery Complications
Infection:
Any surgical procedure poses the risk of infection, with breast implant surgery no exception. Signs may include redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at the incision site – prompt treatment with antibiotics is key in order to stop further spread of infection.
Hematomas:
A hematoma occurs when an accumulation of blood outside blood vessels causes swelling and discomfort. For this complication to be addressed effectively, surgical drainage may be required to alleviate its symptoms.
Seroma:
A seroma is a collection of clear fluid that collects around an implant, leading to swelling and discomfort. While seromas usually reabsorb within their natural lifespan, sometimes drainage may be necessary.
Implant Rupture:
An implant rupture occurs when its outer shell tears or develops a hole, leading to deflation, altered breast shape changes, as well as necessitating removal and replacement of the implant.
Scarring:
Surgery inevitably leaves scars behind, though its severity depends on each person. There are measures you can take to minimize it through incision care and scar management techniques.
Anesthesia Complications:
Undergoing general anesthesia comes with inherent risks, including adverse reactions and respiratory complications. Patients must be assessed thoroughly prior to receiving anesthesia.
Breast Augmentation with Capsular Contraction
Breast augmentation capsular contraction is one of the more vexing complications associated with breast implant surgery. It occurs when scar tissue that forms around an implant tightens around it, compressing it, and leading to various levels of discomfort and distortion in its shape.
Grading Capsular Contracture:
Capsular contracture is graded on a scale from I to IV, with IV representing its most severe form. Grade I indicates soft and natural feeling breast tissue while Grade IV signifies hard, painful, and visibly deformed tissue.
Causes of Capsular Contracture:
Although the exact cause of capsular contracture remains elusive, various factors could possibly play a part. They include infection during surgery, hemorrhaging postoperatively, and genetic predisposition.
Symptoms:
Patients suffering from capsular contracture may experience breast pain, firmness, asymmetry, and visible changes to breast shape over time – sometimes even years or decades post-surgery. These signs and symptoms can appear even years or decades post-op.
Treatment Options:
Treating capsular contracture often requires surgical intervention. Options could include capsulotomy (making incisions in the capsule to release tension), capsulectomy (removing all or most of it), implant replacement, massage therapy, or medication as treatment methods. Non-invasive approaches like massage may also be tried.
How to Avoid Complications
Though breast implant surgery complications may arise despite our best efforts, there are steps both patients and surgeons can take to reduce their risks of complications:
Choose an Experienced Surgeon:
Conduct extensive research on potential surgeons before selecting one with considerable breast implant surgery experience.
Adhere to Pre and Post-Operative Instructions:
Being compliant with your surgeon’s pre and postoperative instructions can reduce risks significantly and help ensure a more successful experience during and post-op.
Be Honest About Your Medical History:
Inform your surgeon of any existing conditions or medications you’re taking so they can ensure your safety during surgery.
Carefully Evaluate Implant Options:
Consult with your surgeon regarding all available implant options, taking into account factors like size, shape, and material properties such as silicone versus saline implants that possess unique attributes.
Regular Check-Ups:
Schedule regular follow-up appointments to evaluate the status of your implants and address any concerns as quickly as possible.
Conclusion
Breast implant surgery is an intimate decision, which must be carefully considered before proceeding with any procedure. Breast implant augmentation complications associated with surgeries such as infections, hematomas, and capsular contractures are inevitable but can usually be handled effectively through proper medical attention and management. Selecting a skilled surgeon, following guidelines carefully, and staying on top of post-op care are all vital ways of mitigating risks associated with these risks.
