Breast Implant Side Effects

A breast enlargement procedure carries with it some side effects similar to what you get from any other kind of surgery. Before you undergo the procedure it is best to ask your doctor about the potential side effects and the ways you can do to improve your health in order to increase the possibility of a good outcome.

Breast augmentation procedures may be done in an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. Immediate side effects of the procedure which are often experienced by patients right after the anesthesia has worn off include soreness in the chest area, swelling, a change in nipple appearance and bruising. The breasts may be sensitive to stimulation for several weeks. Loss of sensation may also occur as a result to damaged nerve endings and may be temporary or permanent. Surgical technique may have a role in the occurrence of this side effect.

A long term side effect which may be experienced by some is difficulty in breast feeding, which is why it is important for the doctor to know if you are planning to get pregnant or nurse soon after your surgery. This information may affect the technique that your surgeon can use during the procedure.

Another side effect is an increased difficulty to determine abnormal masses during a routine mammography, X-ray or ultrasound. The implants may prevent a full visualization of the breast tissue, effectively hiding suspicious tumors and lesions. For a fuller visualization, Eklund displacement views are often done in women who have breast implants. Women who have breast implants are often advised to inform their doctors beforehand of this fact so that additional imaging techniques can be prepared prior to a routine breast exam.

Finally, the most common side effect of breast augmentation surgery is the scarring. However, scars will start to heal and fade in a few months and will be barely noticeable after a year.