Potential Benefits & Risks
Every day, it seems, another high-profile celebrity discusses breast augmentation in the media – either denouncing or supporting the choice. And through forums, blogs and news alerts on the Internet, you can read articles taking a variety of positions on silicone breast implants.
It’s easy to get distracted by hype and hoopla. But like any other decision in life, choosing silicone breast implants is a decision you should make for yourself by weighing the potential benefits and risks. When you’re ready to talk with a plastic surgeon, you can receive a FREE consultation with one of our surgeons when you request your appointment online and schedule during select times they have set aside exclusively for Web visitors.
Potential Benefits of Breast Implant Surgery
Experts agree, unlike the old clichés, today’s breast implant patient is generally “secure and successful” in her life except for this one area. She does not feel pressured by others to enlarge her breasts; instead, she seeks breast implants to fulfill a personal desire.
Indeed, studies conducted in the past decade from Florida to France report that women’s body image, self-esteem and even quality of life improve with breast augmentation surgery. Most women today approach surgery having thought through their motivations, and most are satisfied or very satisfied with their decision.
Focusing specifically on women with silicone breast implants, the information is no different. A recent study of 144 Swedish women with gummy bears noted improvement in overall sense of well-being for 87% of the study participants. Even more compelling, 97% of the women reported that their augmentation had been advantageous.
Potential Risks of Breast Implant Surgery
When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, breast augmentation poses few risks and complications. For in-depth information about risks and complications, read Dr. Stevens’ findings on:
Normal surgical risks are involved, such as infection, seroma (fluid collection around the implant) and hematoma (blood collection around the implant), but these are rare and most often resolved without further surgery.
Some risks of breast augmentation are specific to the procedure, including post-operative asymmetry and the inability to breastfeed. These complications are also rare.
Understanding Breast Implant Surgery Risks
| Condition | Incidence | Typical Treatment | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capsular contracture | Low to moderately low | Scar tissue scoring or removal | Most often managed without surgery |
| Change in nipple sensation | Very low to low | Allow time for improvement | Most changes in sensation are temporary |
| Unacceptable scarring | Low | Allow time for improvement; minor surgical revision | Scars will improve after surgery for several months |
| Chronic breast pain | Low | Possible revision or removal | Often related to implant rupture or capsular contracture |
| Poor healing, wound breakdown, tissue necrosis | Very low | Surgical revision often required | Best avoided by following pre-op instructions and not smoking |
| Information derived from a combination of sources including manufacturers and the U.S. FDA. Incidence rates are characterized as follows: very low: 0 – 5%; low: 5 – 10%; moderately low: 10 – 15%. | |||
Visit implant manufacturer websites and view other online resources such as the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s home page to help you make your decision. Then, when you’re ready to talk with a plastic surgeon, you can receive a FREE consultation with one of our surgeons when you request your appointment online and schedule during select times they have set aside exclusively for Web visitors.