Is Breast Augmentation Safe?

While many breast augmentations has been performed safely in recent decades, patients continue have questions about the safety of the procedure. Fortunately, though no procedure is completely without risk, there is also plenty of research and data backing the relative safety of breast augmentation and breast implants. 

Dr Damon Thomas wants all his patients to feel comfortable with their decision to move forward with breast augmentation, which is why he offers plenty of facts, statistics and information so patients can make informed decisions.

STAMP OF APPROVAL

The first thing you need to know if you are considering breast augmentation is that both silicone and saline implants have approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the organisation responsible for approving medications and medical devices in Australia. Saline implants are crafted of silicone shells filled with a saline solution once the implant is placed into the chest tissue. Silicone implants come already filled with a cohesive silicone gel that looks and feels much like natural breast tissue. Certain varieties of both implant types have been approved by TGA for breast reconstruction after mastectomy and cosmetic purposes.

MORE RESEARCH, MORE POSITIVE RESULTS

There was a time in the history of breast implants when silicone varieties were restricted in Australia. In the 1980s, these devices were taken off the market due to concerns they might be linked to some types of cancer and autoimmune disorders. The Victoria State Government states on their Better Health Channel, “extensive reviews have established no evidence linking silicone breast implants to cancer or autoimmune disorders.” The approval for specific silicone implants was reinstated in 2001.

SALINE VS. SILICONE

Although silicone and saline implants each have their pros and cons, there is not a big difference between the two regarding safety. Both are designed to be durable, lasting 10 years or longer for most women. There are some complications associated with each of these implant types, but used by a skilled specialist plastic surgeon, the risks can be minimised. Your choice of implant should be based on your personal preferences, the recommendation of your surgeon and your body proportions and desired results.

THE REAL RISKS OF BREAST AUGMENTATION

While the risk of serious medical complications is reduced when breast augmentation is performed by a specialist plastic surgeon, there are some risks associated with implants. These might include:

• Capsular contracture (the hardening and tightening of scar tissue around the implant)
• Implant rupture, which can occur with both saline and silicone but is more visible with saline
• Breast rippling, resulting in visible folds on the outer breast, often seen with saline implants
• Asymmetry of the breasts once implants are placed, which may or may not be noticeable
• Infection, which is possible after any surgery
• Poor scarring, which depends on genetics and a host of additional factors
• Migration of implants, which can be more evident with teardrop-shapes

All these possible risks will be discussed with you before your breast surgery. In most cases, these complications can be remedied, although additional surgery may be necessary to restore the breast shape and appearance.

REDUCING YOUR RISKS

There are things you can do to lower your risk for complications after breast augmentation. First, choose a specialist plastic surgeon that is registered as a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Surgeons with this distinction will have FRACS listed after their name in their official title. It is also vital that you follow all instructions given by your surgeon before and after your procedure to ensure your body is in good shape for surgery and allowed ample healing time afterward. By doing your research first and taking proper care of your body before and after surgery, you have better odds of a safe and successful procedure.

Breast augmentation is a frequently requested procedure that has a high satisfaction rate among patients. To learn more about this procedure, contact Dr Damon Thomas today on 03 9034 7738.

MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION

Our website is intended to provide general information about breast augmentation and should not be used as a substitute for personalised medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if breast augmentation is the right procedure for you. The following considerations should be part of your decision-making process.

Risks

All surgical procedures carry risk. The potential risks and complications associated with breast augmentation include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant rupture or leakage, asymmetry, poor scarring and the need for additional surgery. It is important to understand the risks involved and weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of surgery before undergoing breast augmentation.

Recovery

Recovery time after breast augmentation may vary depending on the individual, the extent of the procedure, and the type of implant used. In general, patients should be prepared to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Patients must also be prepared to take time off work and other activities (including exercise) and follow Dr Thomas’ post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Results

Individual results may vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s natural breast tissue, the size and type of implant used, and the surgical technique employed. It is critical to have realistic expectations about the outcome of breast augmentation and understand that each patient’s outcome will be unique. It is also important to know that breast implants are not lifetime devices and may require replacement in the future.

If you have any questions or concerns about breast augmentation, please do not hesitate to contact us.