Breast Implant Issues
Breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries for women over the last decade, and much research has been performed to ensure implants are safe. However, complications can still occur in a small percentage of cases. Staying informed about types of breast implant issues allows you to get treatment early and mitigate any complications.
What happens during rupture or deflation?
Rupture can happen with the most common types of breast implants, but the side effects and symptoms can vary. Saline implants have the most apparent signs of rupture because the saline solution leaks, causing the implant to deflate. The solution is simply absorbed and does not cause any harm, but surgery will be needed to replace the implant. Silicone implants will not deflate the same way as saline, but you may notice pain, swelling, or firmness after a rupture.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is one of the most common breast implant issues. During capsular contracture, scar tissue forms around one or both implants, the body’s response to a foreign object in the body. The hardening of tissue can tighten around the implant and make implants misshapen, hard, or painful. There are four grades of capsular contracture, with grade one the least impactful and grade four being most impactful. Grades three and four typically require surgery to repair.
What is an en bloc capsulectomy?
An en bloc capsulectomy is the removal of the implant and surrounding scar tissue affected by capsular contracture. The tissue and implant are removed as a “block,” or together, to avoid disturbing the implant or causing further complications. Whether the implant is replaced is up to you, but Dr. Hu will discuss the options for replacing the implant or other procedures to improve the look of your breasts after implant removal.
BIA-ALCL
BIA-ALCL is a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that forms in the capsule surrounding breast implants. It is a rare form of cancer that develops in a small number of women who have had textured implants, and the specific type of implant linked to BIA-ALCL has been recalled. You can read more about the condition on our breast implant safety page. Dr. Hu does not use textured implants in his breast augmentation procedures, but he can help you with breast implant replacement, removal, or other modifications.
What are some symptoms of breast implant issues?
Most of the time, you will have some noticeable symptoms if there is a problem with your implants. Some signs of breast implant complications include:
- Pain in or around the breasts
- Swelling
- Firmness or hardening of the breasts
- Asymmetry or a misshapen look
- A sudden change to the shape or positioning
- Loss of feeling or sensation
- Inability to breastfeed
Make an appointment with Valencia Plastic Surgery at the first sign of breast implant issues. Early treatment is vital to minimizing the need for surgery and maintaining beautiful breasts.
Why should I go to Dr. Hu for breast implants?
If you are dissatisfied with your breast implants from a previous augmentation or experience signs of complication, Dr. Hu is your best resource for breast augmentation correction. He has performed thousands of breast surgeries, and he wants to help you look and feel your best. With over 15 years of experience providing exceptional patient care, Dr. Hu has the attention to detail and expertise to help with a variety of breast implant issues.
