Breast augmentation implants are a popular cosmetic procedure. According to the latest statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 290,000 women in the United States alone underwent breast augmentation surgery in 2018.
While breast augmentation surgery is generally safe, there are a number of risks and complications associated with the procedure. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips to mitigate the risks and complications associated with breast augmentation implants.
Different Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants Miami: saline and silicone gel. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. Silicone gel implants are filled with silicone, a thick substance closely resembling human fat.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of breast implants. Saline implants, for example, are less expensive than silicone gel implants and have a lower risk of rejection such as a capsular contracture (a condition where scar tissue around the implant hardens and begins to squeeze the implant). However, saline implants can cause rippling or wrinkling under the skin, whereas silicone gel implants are less likely to do so.
Additionally, silicone gel implants tend to look and feel more natural than saline implants. On the other hand, if a silicone gel implant ruptures, it can be difficult to detect because there may not be any noticeable changes in the appearance of the breast. In contrast, a rupture in a saline implant will cause the breast to deflate immediately.
Risks and Complications Associated with Breast Augmentation Implants
The most common complication associated with breast augmentation surgery is capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening). Other risks and complications include infection, implant rupture or deflation, tissue death (necrosis), and changes in nipple sensation.
Additionally, women with silicone gel implants may be at an increased risk of developing a rare form of cancer known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL).
Tips To Mitigate The Risks
There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing complications after breast augmentation surgery. First, be sure to choose your plastic surgeon carefully. Look for someone who is experienced in performing breast augmentations and who has hospital privileges in case you need to be admitted for any reason during or after your surgery.
Second, make sure you understand all of the risks and complications associated with breast implants before undergoing surgery. This will help you make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with surgery.
Third, follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully to minimize your risk of infection. Finally, consider choosing silicone gel implants instead of saline implants; although they are more expensive, they tend to have a lower complication rate overall.
Selecting A Reputable Surgeon
When selecting a surgeon for your breast augmentation surgery, it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience performing the procedure. You can check a surgeon’s credentials by visiting the American Board of Plastic Surgery website or contacting their office directly once you have selected a few surgeons that meet your criteria; schedule consultations with each one so that you can compare their recommendations and decide which surgeon is right for you.
Although breast augmentation surgery is generally safe, there are certain risks and complications associated with the procedure. This blog post has discussed some tips to help mitigate those risks and complications.