What are the most common complications after a breast augmentation?
February 28, 2024 | 70,00 EUR | answered by Quentin Keck
Dear doctor,
My name is Ulrike Ullmann, and I recently underwent a breast augmentation. Although I am very satisfied with the results, I am now concerned about possible complications that may arise after such surgery.
My situation before the surgery was that I had been considering a breast augmentation for a long time, as I was unhappy with the size and shape of my breasts. After much consideration and extensive research, I finally decided to go through with the procedure and am now in the recovery phase.
As it stands, the surgery was successful, and I am very happy with the aesthetic results. However, I have heard that there can be complications following a breast augmentation, such as infections, bleeding, wound healing issues, or capsular contracture.
These pieces of information worry me a bit, which is why I am reaching out to you to learn more about them. So my question is: What are the most common complications after a breast augmentation, and how can they be treated or prevented?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with detailed information on this matter to alleviate my concerns and educate me on any potential risks. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Ulrike Ullmann
Dear Mrs. Ullmann,
Thank you for your message and for trusting in my expertise as a surgeon. I understand that you may have concerns about possible complications following your breast augmentation. It is important to be informed about potential risks in order to be well prepared and able to respond appropriately in case of any problems.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that most breast augmentations are successful and patients are satisfied with the results. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with breast augmentation. The most common complications after breast augmentation include infections, bleeding, wound healing issues, and capsular contracture.
Infections can occur after surgery if bacteria enter the wound. Typical signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pain, and possibly fever. To prevent infections, it is important to follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions carefully, especially regarding wound care. If you notice signs of an infection, it is important to contact your surgeon immediately so that the infection can be treated early.
Bleeding can occur in the first few days after surgery and is often accompanied by pain and swelling. To avoid bleeding, it is important to rest and avoid physical exertion in the first few days after surgery. If you notice severe bleeding, contact your surgeon immediately.
Wound healing issues can result in scars not healing properly. This can have various causes, such as inadequate wound care or impaired circulation. To prevent wound healing issues, it is important to follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Capsular contracture is another possible complication after breast augmentation, where a thin capsule of scar tissue forms around the breast implants, causing the breast to harden and deform. The exact causes of capsular contracture are not fully understood, but there are various measures to reduce the risk, such as gentle massage of the breast implants and regular check-ups with the surgeon.
Overall, it is important to have regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon after breast augmentation to detect and treat possible complications early. Most complications can be successfully treated if detected early.
I hope this information has alleviated some of your concerns and I am available to answer any further questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Quentin Keck
