According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures worldwide. It has become a popular choice for individuals who desire to enhance their breast size and shape, and Malaysia is no exception.
However, it is crucial for individuals considering any medical procedure, including breast augmentation, to thoroughly understand the risks and potential complications involved. This knowledge can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and choose the best options for themselves. By understanding the potential risks and complications, individuals can take steps to minimise these risks and ensure that they receive the best possible care throughout the procedure and during the recovery period.
Selecting a reputable and qualified surgeon, along with the right type of implant, significantly reduces the likelihood of potential risks and complications associated with any surgical
procedure.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
In Malaysia, breast augmentation is performed by qualified plastic surgeons who are trained to the highest standards of care. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and implant rupture.
For this reason, it is crucial to discuss the potential risks and complications associated with breast augmentation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Such discussions provide patients with accurate and detailed information about the likelihood and severity of any complications, allowing them to make informed decisions about whether breast augmentation is the right choice for them. Moreover, discussing potential risks and complications with a qualified surgeon enables a thorough examination of the patient's medical history and current health status, allowing the surgeon to identify any underlying conditions or factors that may increase the risk of complications and take appropriate precautions.
While the procedure is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it comes with some risks and complications. Some of the common risks and complications of breast augmentation include:
Infection: According to an online article, infection after breast augmentation surgery can occur due to several factors, including:
- Contamination of the surgical site or implant
- A weakened immune system
- Improper hygiene before or after surgery
- Poor surgical technique
- The surgical environment
- Contaminated breast implant
The signs of infection after breast augmentation surgery can include fever, chills, redness, swelling, and tenderness in the breast area. Patients should contact their surgeon immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.
- Implant rupture or leakage: According to Mayo Clinic, the silicone gel may leak into the breast tissue and cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. It can also migrate to the lymph nodes and cause lumps or changes in breast shape. In some cases, the silicone gel may spread to other parts of the body, such as the chest wall or abdominal cavity, and cause a rare type of immune system cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). Additionally, a ruptured implant may require surgery to remove or replace the implant. If you suspect your implant has ruptured, it is important to contact your surgeon promptly to discuss your options.
- Capsular contracture: Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery, in which the body's natural response to the presence of foreign objects - such as breast implants - causes scar tissue to form around the implant. In some cases, this scar tissue can thicken and tighten, compressing the implant and distorting the shape of the breast. This can cause discomfort, pain, and in severe cases, implant displacement or rupture. Treatment for capsular contracture may involve medication, massage, or surgery to remove or replace the affected implant.
- Scarring: When the skin or tissue is damaged, the body initiates a natural healing process that involves the production of collagen, which helps in forming new tissue to heal the wound. In the case of breast augmentation, scarring may occur due to the incisions made during the surgery, and the degree of scarring depends on the location and type of incision used. There are three common incision locations for breast augmentation: under the breast, around the nipple, and in the armpit. Each incision location has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of location depends on the patient's preferences and requirements.
Less Common Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
a) Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of lymphoma that can develop in some women with breast implants. It is not a form of breast cancer, but rather a cancer of the immune system that can develop around the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. Symptoms of BIA-ALCL include swelling, pain, and lumps in the breast, as well as fever and fatigue. The condition is typically treated with surgery to remove the implant and surrounding scar tissue, as well as chemotherapy or radiation therapy in some cases. While BIA-ALCL is rare, women with breast implants should be aware of the potential risk and monitor for any symptoms, particularly if they have textured implants.
In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued safety communications concerning the potential link between textured breast implants and BIA-ALCL, a rare form of lymphoma. The FDA requested a voluntary recall of textured breast implants from the market, but recognized that some patients may choose to keep their implants and recommended regular monitoring for symptoms of BIA-ALCL. The FDA also advised healthcare providers to discuss the risks and benefits of textured breast implants with their patients before surgery, and to provide them with the most current information about the potential risks associated with these implants.
b) Implant displacement or malposition is a potential complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. This happens when the implant moves from its intended position, causing aesthetic issues or discomfort. Surgeons usually use surgical techniques and sutures to secure the implant, but it can move due to surgical errors, natural healing process, or trauma. To avoid these risks, women must discuss the potential complications with their surgeon before surgery and carefully follow all post-operative instructions.
c) Implant rippling occurs after your breast augmentation surgery, especially if you have thin breast tissue. This complication may cause your implant to appear uneven or unnatural due to the appearance of wrinkles or ripples on the implant's surface. Implant rippling happens when the thin layer of tissue that covers the implant is not sufficient to mask the implant's edges or surface, causing wrinkles or ripples to appear on the implant's surface, which can be visible through the skin. Choosing a silicone breast implant like Motiva is one of the ways to reduce the risk of implant rippling. It's always best to discuss all available options with your surgeon to determine the most suitable course of action for your individual needs. With proper care and attention, implant rippling can be successfully addressed through revision surgery, restoring a smooth and natural appearance to the breasts.
Safety Through Innovation
Innovative solutions and technologies are being developed to minimise the risks associated with cosmetic procedures, making them safer and more reliable than ever before. One such brand of breast implants, the Motiva Ergonomix, is known to utilise the latest technology and materials to reduce the likelihood of complications that may arise from breast augmentation procedures.
Motiva Ergonomix has a safety feature called BluSeal, which adds an extra layer of protection to the implant shell. It allows surgeons to identify any potential issues prior to insertion and ensure that the procedure is as safe and successful as possible. The Motiva Ergonomix offers patients peace of mind, as the implant's bluish colour indicates to the surgeon that it is safe to use and completely intact.
Another safety feature of Motiva Ergonomix is the SmoothSilk/SilkSurface, which is specifically designed to be compatible with breast tissue. It also eliminates the use of salt/sugaring for its material. This avoids the possibility of unnecessary substances like freon, which can pose a risk to patient safety. Each point of contact on the implant surface is smaller than a single cell thus reducing the risk of complications like capsular contracture, late seroma, and Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Motiva Ergonomix is leading the way in the pursuit of "Safety Through Innovation," with a capsular contracture rate of less than 1%.
Follow-Up Care in Malaysia
In Malaysia, breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure among women looking to improve their self-esteem and physical appearance. Nevertheless, complications can arise after undergoing the surgery. To detect any potential issues early on, regular follow-up care and monitoring are critical. This entails scheduling routine check-ups with your plastic surgeon and conducting self-examinations of the breasts. By monitoring changes in breast size, shape, texture, pain, discomfort, or unusual sensations, complications such as implant rupture or capsular contracture can be detected.
Furthermore, one of the many benefits of using Motiva Implants® for long-term breast health is their comprehensive warranty program. The Always Confident Warranty® covers rupture cases for the lifetime of the implant and offers a 10-year product replacement policy for Baker Grades III and IV Capsular Contracture cases. This provides peace of mind for patients, knowing that they are covered in the unlikely event of complications.
Moreover, Motiva® offers extended warranty programs for even greater protection, including a 2-year or 5-year option that provides replacement implants and financial support for revision surgery if necessary. By choosing Motiva Implants®, patients can have confidence in the durability and long-term reliability of their breast augmentation results.
Breast augmentation in Malaysia with Motiva Ergonomix® will help you achieve a more confident version of yourself. However, being mindful of the potential surgical risks and other rare complications provides you with the knowledge and gives you more options when it comes to your decision-making.
But, by choosing Motiva Ergonomix®, you can benefit from innovative safety features and technology that minimise these risks, as well as comprehensive warranty programs for added peace of mind. Long-term follow-up care and monitoring are also crucial for maintaining breast health and detecting any changes.
Lastly, choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon and quality breast implants, such as Motiva Ergonomix®, can significantly reduce the risks and complications associated with breast augmentation. However, it's also crucial to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the implants and detect any potential issues early on, ensuring long-term breast health and peace of mind. Remember, investing in your safety and well-being is priceless.
