Are Breast Augmentations Safe? 647a1b1018f49.jpeg

Are Breast Augmentations Safe?

Woman Wondering about Breast Augmentation Breast augmentation enjoys an impressive safety record and is considered a safe elective procedure. While there are some risks with breast augmentation, serious risks are extremely rare and can often be corrected with revision surgery. If you are considering breast augmentation in or around Andover, MA or Nashua, NH, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. George Chatson welcomes an opportunity to meet with you, answer any questions you may have, and help you decide if breast augmentation is a good fit for your body.

Breast Implant Risks

Surgical risks that may accompany breast augmentation include excessive bleeding, infection, and noticeable scars. You significantly reduce your risks for these issues by following Dr. Chatson’s pre and postoperative instructions. Please bear in mind that nicotine, not just smoking, will impact your ability to recover and increase risks of infection and visible scars.

Capsular contracture is a rare but painful breast implant complication. This issue occurs when scar tissue around the implant hardens, resulting in a distorted appearance. Capsular contracture is best corrected through breast augmentation revision surgery.

In addition to surgical complications and risks, breast implants themselves can rupture or leak, allowing saline or silicone to release into the body. Fortunately, neither of these breast implant fillings are toxic.

Saline leaks or ruptures will be almost immediately visible as the liquid drains from the implant. Silicone leaks can take longer to notice due to the viscosity of the gel. Form stable breast implants, also known as gummy bear implants, may maintain their shape even months after a leak or rupture. It is advisable for women with breast implants to have breast cancer screening done through MRI. These same screenings can detect a leaking silicone implant.

Ruptured implants can be replaced. Some even have a warranty. Dr. Chatson will discuss this in greater detail during your initial consultation.

Weighing Your Risks

No surgery is entirely risk-free, but breast augmentation has a long and trusted safety record. To help decrease risks for complication, Dr. Chatson only performs breast surgery in accredited surgical facilities, including Orchard Surgical Center, Holy Family Hospital, Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, and Saint Joseph Hospital, where attending staff are equipped to deal with all potentialities. This helps us keep you safe and comfortable at all times before, during, and after your breast enlargement procedure.

Dr. Chatson is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a past president of the New England Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Trusted, respected, and honest, Dr. Chatson takes time to carefully plan surgical procedures, helping to reduce risks by personalizing options for each patient. While there is no guarantee against complications, choosing to work with a board-certified plastic surgeon with hospital permissions certainly helps.

If you are planning on having breast augmentation or are curious if it’s the right choice for you, call our Andover office at 978-687-1151 or our Nashua office at 603-882-2103 to schedule a consultation today.

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