Breast Implant Complications

Undergoing any surgical procedure may involve complications like the effects of anesthesia, possible infection, swelling, redness, bleeding and pain. Breast implant placement can be a complex surgery and complications may occur. Implant Failure Though generally safe, breast implants are medical devices and they can fail. If detected early enough, replacing a ruptured breast implant, particularly saline-filled breast implants, is similar to replacing a battery in a battery compartment. If detected late, ruptured silicone implants can cause thickening of scar tissue around the implant, which can lead to breast deformity and pain. Delayed replacement or removal of ruptured breast implants can be more complicated. Capsular Contracture Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue or capsule that normally forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. Capsular contraction is more common following infection, hematomas or seromas (collection of watery portion of blood). There are four grades of capsular contractor. The Baker Grades I through IV are: Grade I - the breast is normally soft and looks natural; Grade II - the breast is a little firm but looks normal; Grade III - the breast is firm and looks abnormal (visible distortion); Grade IV - the breast is hard, painful and looks abnormal (greater distortion). Saline Overfilling and Under filling Overfilling a breast implant is filling the amount saline beyond the recommended manufacturer amount. Under filling a breast implant is filling the amount saline below the manufacturer minimum.

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