Plastic surgery, particularly breast augmentation, has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more individuals seek to enhance their physical appearance. While this procedure can have transformative effects, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers and risks associated with it.
One of the most common complications of breast augmentation is infection. Infections can occur post-operatively, leading to pain, swelling, and potential scarring. In some cases, infections can be severe and may require additional surgeries to correct. It is crucial to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to minimize the risk of infection.
Another potential complication of breast augmentation is capsular contracture. This occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to become hard and misshapen. Capsular contracture can be painful and may require surgical intervention to correct. It is important to discuss the risk of capsular contracture with your surgeon before undergoing breast augmentation.
In addition to these potential complications, some women may experience an increased risk of heart attack or stroke as a result of breast augmentation surgery. While the overall risk of these serious cardiovascular events is relatively low compared to other surgeries, it is essential to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your surgeon before proceeding with the procedure.
When considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in performing this type of surgery. Researching the surgeon’s qualifications and asking for before and after photos of previous patients can help ensure a successful outcome.
It is also important to discuss the type of implant that will be used for the procedure. Silicone and saline implants are the two most common types, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Researching popular breast implants on Amazon can help you understand the different options available and make an informed decision.
Overall, while breast augmentation can have significant aesthetic benefits, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. By thoroughly researching your options, discussing your concerns with your surgeon, and following post-operative care instructions, you can help minimize the risks and achieve the results you desire.
In this post, we’ll consider can breast implants cause food allergies and can breast implants cause acid reflux.
Heartburn After Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation surgery continues to be an extremely popular procedure for many patients. For many, how their surgery turns out is extremely satisfactory and happy with how it’s turned out. During the recovery period, however, patients are still sceptical about how their results have turned out after breast augmentation surgery.
Guidance is provided throughout your recovery stage and we ensure that your safety is a top priority by outlining the steps your recovery will take. However, if at some point in your recovery after breast augmentation you have any concerns, we’ve outlined some things that you should and shouldn’t expect to feel or see after your surgery.
Your chest feels quite tight
It’s natural to expect swelling after your surgery. This will be the time period when your breast tissue is beginning to heal and become familiar with the implants that have been inserted. Postoperative swelling can intensify particularly around the 3-5 day mark, potentially amplifying the feeling of pressure on your chest.
Typically, you’re likely to feel discomfort after breast augmentation surgery for the first couple of weeks but feelings of stiffness can occur for a month or so. The majority of the swelling will occur in the first 3 weeks or so after the breast augmentation surgery but moderate swelling is likely to remain for around 3 months.
If the swelling persists severely and your breasts feel very warm or have the feeling of engorgement, it’s important to contact your surgeon immediately as these are common signs of bleeding and infection.
Boobs appear unnatural and nipples are uneven
During the recovery process, it’s important that your breasts are given time to “drop and fluff”. This is a term used to describe the breasts gradually falling into place of their final position the scar begins to fade. This normally occurs around the 3 month mark.
Initially, your breasts are likely to appear rather high on the chest and you’ll generally see some dissimilarities in how they look. This may also include one breast appearing slightly bigger than the other or one dropping lower than the other. Don’t fear that your surgeon made a mistake at this stage as it simply means your breasts need more time to heal.
Give your breasts time to adjust to the new implants. Asymmetry may occur postoperatively as swelling continues to heal and one breast may recover quicker than the other. Around 3 months is when your breasts will start to take shape and show their final results. If after this time, your breasts still appear dissimilar, hard to touch and generally look unnatural, this would be a good indication to call your surgeon. Breast augmentation revision can be an option if you’re still not happy with the results after 6-12 months.
Shooting pains are being felt around out nipples
You’re likely to feel strange sensations and pain around your chest and nipple area as your muscles tissues continue to repair. Other common pains may appear in the chest and have back pain occur throughout the first few weeks. Generally, chest muscle spasms are expected to occur around the first three to four weeks after your recovery as the pectoral muscles continue to adjust to the implant.
Whilst the pains may occur for around 6 months after breast augmentation surgery, these should gradually become less frequent. If the pain continues severely and excessively for a continuous period, disrupting your comfort and sleeping patterns, it’s important to notify your surgeon immediately.
You feel bloated or constipated
It’s natural to feel extremely anxious after your surgery, developing discomfort in the digestive system and nausea. The body can also react differently to medication and the anesthesia used to numb your pain feeling. Pain feeling tends to come from lack of physical activity for the first few days of recovery, causing fatigue and bloating.
This feeling of constipation should only last for a few days after the initial shock that the body received from the operation. Regular hydration and taking reasonable precautions with your medication can help to alleviate this feeling. Any limited exercise available can also help with digestive problems, such as short walks.
If the pain persists longer than normally expected, it would be advisable to contact your surgeon about the problems you’re facing. There can be solutions available, even as little as adjusting your diet. These can be further discussed during your visit.
Be sure to stay in touch with your surgeon
Each individual patient heals differently after breast augmentation surgery, so you may not even experience these points. Whilst the majority of patients are happy with their results and heal as expected after surgery with us, there can be times when complications arise.
What are the side-effects of breast enlargement surgery?
Although a high percentage of breast augmentation operations are extremely successful, you need to be aware of the possible risks and complications associated with the surgery. These are listed in the following table:
| Infections | In the first few weeks following your operation it is possible that you could get an infection in your breast tissue. This will present itself with symptoms such as soreness, swelling and a fever. Consult your surgeon immediately for the best chance of successfully treating the infection with antibiotics. However, depending on the severity of the infection, it is possible that the implant may need to be removed so that the infection can be treated properly and to minimise further risks to your health. |
|---|---|
| Capsular contraction | A common problem with breast enlargements is when the body forms a layer of scar around the implant, causing scar tissue to build up around it over time. It can become firm. This can be uncomfortable or look different. In this situation, the surgeon can attempt to remove the scar tissue and usually change the implant. It is thought the most common cause is a very low-grade infection stuck onto the implant. |
| Sensitivity | The sensitivity of the skin on and around the breast and nipples can be affected after a breast enlargement operation. Some women find that their breasts are more or less sensitive after the procedure, in some cases this can be permanent, but for most women the sensitivity settles down over time. |
| Implant ruptures | Occasionally breast implants can leak — this happens when the implant splits or tears and the liquid inside seeps out. In the case of a silicone implant, it is very difficult to detect leakage, as the silicone leaks out very slowly. Regular MRI screenings or ultrasound are the only way to detect a rupture in a silicone implant. In most cases the silicone is held within the scar capsule and harmless. If it moves beyond the capsule it can cause lumps, discomfort and lymph glands to enlarge, however this poses minimal threat to your safety, but can be uncomfortable. |
| Wrinkling | The outer cover or shell of implants can sometimes be prone to wrinkling or folding. This can cause a rippling effect that can occasionally be visible on the sides of the breast. Most implants are likely to wrinkle or ripple a small amount. The effect of this is more commonly visible in thin patients. |
| New breast angst | Sometimes women who have wanted larger breasts for a long time find themselves disappointed once they have finally gone through with the operation. The surgeon may have misinterpreted the patient’s desires, or the patient may simply struggle to adjust to their new shape, causing what is called ‘new breast angst’. We would advise giving yourself time to acclimatise to your new breasts; it often takes a few weeks for the implants to settle into their final position. If, after a couple of months, a patient still felt uncomfortable and unhappy with her breast implants, we’d advise having a chat with your surgeon. |
What are the warning signs of complications from breast implants?
As with all forms of surgery, the weeks following the operation are crucial for spotting the signs of any problems. Naturally there will be tenderness and some local swelling and bruising, but it is worth checking with your surgeon if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- severe pain in either or both of your breasts
- inflamed redness on the breasts
- an intense burning sensation in the breasts that causes discomfort
- excessive swelling on or around the breasts
- deflated breasts
- coloured discharge from your wounds or an unpleasant smell
- a raised, feverish temperature
- any excessive aching or unusual lumps
Will breast augmentation affect the sensation in my breasts?
Yes, for a little while, but this should return to normal. The swelling can cause pressure on the nerve endings in your skin which can result in numbness. Sensation should gradually return as your body heals.
Can Breast Implants Cause Food Allergies
Rest assured that breast augmentation does not cause food allergies or heartburn.
Can Breast Implants Cause Acid Reflux
The FDA has discovered more than 90 symptoms relating to breast implant illness in its Medical Device Reporting database. They include: acid reflux, ear ringing, easy bruising, fibromyalgia, hair loss, IBS, muscle pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
How long will it take to regain normal sensation in my breasts?
Patients who undergo breast surgery, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons, may experience changes in sensation in their breasts following the procedure. According to medical experts, most patients find that normal sensation returns within a few weeks after surgery. However, for some individuals, it may take three to six months for sensation to fully come back, and in some cases, it can even take up to a year for the breasts to regain normal feeling. It is important for patients to be patient during this recovery process and not panic if sensation does not return quickly.
During the post-operative period, it is essential for patients to follow up with their surgeon for regular appointments to monitor their healing progress. If there are any concerns about the lack of sensation in the breasts, it is important to communicate this with the surgeon during these follow-up visits. The surgeon can provide reassurance and guidance on the expected timeline for sensation to return, as well as offer recommendations for any additional treatment or therapy that may help in the recovery process.
In the meantime, there are products available on the market that can help promote healing and improve sensation in the breasts following surgery. Popular products on Amazon that are relevant to this topic include:
1. ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets: These sheets are designed to help reduce the appearance of scars and promote healing in the surgical area.
2. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel: This gel is formulated to improve the texture and appearance of scars, including those from breast surgery.
3. Biodermis Epi-Derm Areola Circles: These silicone circles are specifically designed for use on the areola area following breast surgery, helping to improve skin tone and texture.
4. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil: This oil is known for its ability to improve the appearance of scars and promote overall skin health, which can be beneficial for patients recovering from breast surgery.
In conclusion, the recovery process following breast surgery can vary for each individual, with some patients experiencing delayed return of sensation in the breasts. It is important for patients to be patient and communicate any concerns with their surgeon during follow-up appointments. By following post-operative care instructions and using appropriate products to promote healing, patients can support the recovery of sensation in their breasts and achieve the desired outcome of their surgery.
Will breast augmentation affect the sensation in my nipples?
Yes, for a little while. Also, it’s common to have permanently less sensitive nipples following breast augmentation. This is due to the pressure on your nerves caused by the swelling, and in some cases where nerves have been cut during your incision.
This may be applicable if you had an incision around the nipple.
Will breast augmentation affect the sensation around the incisions?
Your incisions may feel numb as the nerves may also have been cut. This will heal in the weeks and months following the operation, with normal sensation eventually returning.
I have a burning sensation in my breasts. Is this normal?
Yes, it’s normal. A burning sensation following breast surgery is common, and it’s caused by the muscles and nerves being stretched. It should clear up on its own in time.
My breasts are itchy. Is this normal?
Yes, it’s normal to have an itching sensation after breast augmentation. It’s caused by your skin being stretched dramatically over the implants, similar to stomach skin in pregnancy. As your skin adapts and recovers from the stretching, the itch will go away. It can help to massage your skin before and after your surgery to help it recover its elasticity and soothe the itch.
I have a sensation of sharp shooting pains in my breasts. Is this normal?
Yes, this is completely normal. You will get these quite regularly in the few weeks following your surgery, and they can still happen even a few months afterwards. They should calm down and become much less frequent. If you’re still experiencing these pains from three to six months post-operatively, you should seek medical advice.
My breasts are feeling very hard. What does this mean?
It’s normal for the breasts to feel firm and tight for the first few weeks after breast augmentation — this is due to the swelling. However, if it’s been several weeks or months since your surgery, and the hardness is accompanied by a change in shape in one or both breasts, there could be a possibility of capsular contracture, so we’d advise going back to see your surgeon.
What are the risks of infection?
As with all major surgery and skin incisions, there is a small risk of infection. This risk can be lessened by following your surgeon’s post-op wound care sand aftercare instructions as closely as you can. If you do develop an infection, or have any unusual redness or swelling that doesn’t settle down.
What kind of scarring will I get?
This depends greatly on the type of skin you have, the quality of the surgeon, the location of your incisions, your aftercare and how your body heals, so it varies from person to person and is impossible to predict. However, as a general rule, normal wound healing would result in a shiny red scar that gradually lightens to a shiny white; slightly paler than your usual skin tone. Take a look at what breast surgery scars normally look like for a better idea.
What kind of scarring would be unusual?
Raised areas of scarring or large growths such as keloids would be considered unusual. Read more about this in our guide on what breast surgery scars look like.
How can unusual scarring be prevented?
Some of the measures you can take to minimise scarring after breast surgery include:
- wearing a support bra
- using creams and silicone treatments
- massaging the area
- drinking plenty of water
- eating and living healthily
What can be done to fix unusual scarring?
This depends on the type of scars you develop. Some can be treated at home with silicone tape or special scar treatment creams, massage or other moisturisers, but some may need surgical intervention to correct them. There are a number of different surgical procedures offered to minimise the appearance of unusual scarring.
What is capsular contracture and will I get it?
Capsular contracture is a form of scarring in the breast tissue surrounding the implant, which can then harden and contract. About 5% of women get it, but it can’t be predicted when it will occur. Capsular contracture can be corrected by removing the implant and the scar tissue, then reinserting the implant.
Will I get scar tissue inside my breast?
There is a chance this can happen with breast implants, yes. You may also get capsular contracture, though this is rare. However, many people also don’t get scar tissue inside the breast — it depends on the individual.
What if I have a weeping wound?
Your incisions should be under a dressing for the first few days (or up to a week) or covered with a surgical glue. If, after a week, your wound is still weeping, then ask your surgeon for further advice.
What if I have bleeding after my breast enlargement?
Your incision may bleed if you disturb the wound or open it up. This can be avoided by following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions on activity and exercise. If your incision starts bleeding again (either before or after the stitches have been removed), contact your surgeon for further advice.
What is a hematoma or a seroma?
A hematoma occurs when blood becomes trapped under the surface of a wound, it can look like a bruise and range from a small marble size to a tennis ball. Some haematomas are elongated along the site of the wound. Seromas are filled with clear fluid and feel like a soft lump with liquid under the skin.
Both hematomas and seromas need medical attention, even though in many cases the liquid in small seromas and hematomas is likely to be absorbed back into the body. Depending on the size and location, they will need to be checked with an ultrasound and possibly removed with surgery.
What happens if my breast implants leak?
This depends on the type of implant you have. If you have saline-filled implants, they may leak into the surrounding breast tissue. If this happens, you will need to have it drained and then the implant removed (and reinserted, if that’s what you want). If you have silicone gel-filled implants, the gel will often lie inert without leaking into the surrounding tissue.
Saline-filled and silicone gel-filled breast implants come with different risks when it comes to potential leaks. If you have saline-filled implants, there is a possibility that the saline solution may leak into the surrounding breast tissue. This can sometimes cause changes in the size or shape of the affected breast, and may lead to discomfort or pain. In the event of a leak, you will likely need to have the implant drained and removed. If you choose to do so, a new implant can be reinserted. It is important to address any leaks promptly to prevent further complications.
On the other hand, silicone gel-filled implants are designed to be more durable and less likely to leak into the surrounding tissue. Silicone gel is a cohesive substance that tends to stay intact within the implant shell, even if a rupture occurs. This can make detecting a leak more challenging, as the gel may not migrate outside of the implant. However, regular monitoring and follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider can help ensure the integrity of your implants.
Popular products on Amazon that may be relevant to those with breast implants include supportive bras, scar therapy products, and post-operative care supplies. These items can help provide comfort and support during the recovery process, as well as promote proper healing and maintenance of breast implants.
In summary, the risk of implant leakage varies depending on the type of implant you have. Saline-filled implants may leak into the surrounding breast tissue, while silicone gel-filled implants are designed to contain the gel within the implant shell. It is important to stay vigilant and consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any changes or concerns regarding your breast implants. Regular monitoring and follow-up care can help ensure the longevity and safety of your implants.
What can cause a rupture or leak in a breast implant?
The most common reason why a breast implant may leak or rupture is wear and tear to the implant over time, causing the surface of the implant to break.
How will I know if I have a rupture or leak?
If one of your implants has ruptured you may experience a variety of signs and symptoms, depending on the type of implant used. If your saline implant has ruptured then one breast will seem smaller due to liquid leaking into the body, and you may even be able to see the edge of the implant shell. Silicone implant rupture can only really be properly diagnosed with an MRI or ultrasound scan as in many cases the implant will maintain its shape.
There are associated symptoms with ruptures in both saline and silicone implants which include redness and inflammation, pain and discomfort in the breasts, and/or lumps and bumps in the breast.
How can ruptures or leaks be prevented?
As the main cause of ruptures in breast implants is wear and tear, it is important to take certain steps to minimize this risk. One way to do this is to ensure you have good quality implants to begin with. Investing in reputable brands and materials can help reduce the likelihood of breakage due to everyday wear and tear.
Manufacturers typically estimate that breast implants last around 10 years on average before they may need to be replaced. However, it is important to note that some individuals may need to replace their implants sooner due to various factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and implant placement. It is recommended to speak with your surgeon for further advice on when you should consider replacing your implants to ensure their longevity and safety.
Popular breast implant products on Amazon that are relevant to this topic include:
- Allergan Natrelle Inspira
- Mentor MemoryGel Silicone Gel
- Sientra Platinum Responsive
When considering breast implants, it is essential to prioritize quality and durability to reduce the risk of ruptures caused by wear and tear. Regular check-ups with your surgeon and following their recommendations for replacing implants can help maintain the health and integrity of your breast augmentation.